A Guide To Commercial Exterior Lighting

Effective commercial exterior lighting is essential for businesses. It increases safety, security, and aesthetics, creating an inviting atmosphere for customers and employees. This guide explores what commercial exterior lighting is, the types available, and how to choose the right system for your needs.

What is Commercial Exterior Lighting?

Commercial exterior lighting refers to the illumination of outdoor areas surrounding commercial properties, such as offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and parking lots. This type of lighting serves two purposes:

• Safety and Security: Proper lighting deters criminal activities and ensures safe navigation for pedestrians and vehicles.
• Aesthetics: Well-designed lighting systems enhance the property’s visual appeal, making it more attractive to customers and clients.
• Functionality: Adequate lighting allows for extended operating hours, particularly in outdoor settings like loading docks or dining areas.

Right Bulbs for Commercial Exterior Lighting

Selecting the right bulb type is essential to achieve the desired lighting effect and efficiency. Here are the main types of bulbs used in commercial lighting.

• Incandescent Bulbs: Incandescent bulbs are inexpensive and give off a warm, inviting light. However, they have a short lifespan and consume a lot of energy. Because of their low energy efficiency, they are best used for decorative purposes but are not recommended for large-scale commercial applications.
• Fluorescent Bulbs: These bulbs are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than incandescent bulbs. However, they contain mercury, which requires careful disposal. Fluorescent bulbs are ideal for areas where bright, consistent light is needed, such as parking garages or walkways.
• Halogen Bulbs: Halogen bulbs provide bright white light and are more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs; however, they generate a lot of heat and have a shorter lifespan than other bulbs on our list. Halogen bulbs are best used for creating spotlights and accent lights.
• High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Bulbs: These include Metal Halide, High-Pressure Sodium, and Mercury Vapor. They’re extremely bright, efficient, and long-lasting. They take longer to warm up, and some people find the light they produce too harsh. These bulbs are suitable for large areas like parking lots, street lights, and industrial settings.
• Light Emitting Diode (LED): Many people opt for LED lighting systems because they’re highly energy efficient, emit little heat, and come in various color temperatures. While they’re more expensive, the energy savings and long lifespan offset the higher initial cost. LEDs are versatile for all commercial lighting situations, including signage, pathways, parking areas, and decorative applications.

How to Choose the Right Commercial Lighting System

While there’s no ‘right’ choice, the commercial exterior lighting system you go with depends on various factors.

Purpose and Functionality

Security lighting focuses on bright, consistent illumination with motion sensors and timers for added security. Aesthetic lighting highlights architectural features, landscaping, and signage.

Energy Efficiency

Opt for LED bulbs for their superior energy efficiency and long-term cost savings. Assess the energy consumption of your lighting system and consider installing solar-powered options for greater savings.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Since exterior lights are exposed to the elements, it’s crucial to choose fixtures designed to withstand wind, rain, snow, and ice. Look for IP (Ingress Protection) ratings that indicate how resistant the system is to dust and water.

Control Options

Consider a system that integrates smart lighting controls, like timers, motion sensors, and dimmers, to enhance convenience and efficiency. Automated systems can adjust lighting based on time of day, occupancy, and ambient light levels. Also, consider a system that allows remote control with a phone or tablet.

Regulation Compliance

Ensure the lighting system you want complies with local regulations regarding light pollution and energy efficiency. Some areas have specific codes for commercial exterior lighting to minimize their environmental impact.

Maintenance Costs

Consider the maintenance requirements and overall cost, including installation, operation, and placement. While initially more expensive, LED systems offer significant maintenance and energy savings.

Investing in the right commercial lighting system enhances safety, security, and your property’s overall appeal. The key to choosing the right system depends on your needs, including energy efficiency, durability, and functionality.

If you need a commercial exterior lighting system or general contracting services, call New Horizon Construction Services. We’re a Florida-based MBE general contractor that handles projects throughout the country. We provide pre-construction, construction management, design/build, and general contractor services.

Call 407-574-2164 or click here for an estimate.