Choosing the Right Wattage for Your LED Area Lights

When it comes to illuminating outdoor spaces, LED area lights are a fantastic choice for energy efficiency and powerful illumination. However, selecting the correct wattage is crucial to achieving the desired lighting levels for your specific application. One of the most important factors in this decision is the height of your light pole. Here's a guide to help you choose the right wattage for LED area lights on different pole heights:

10-Foot Poles:

For 10-foot poles, you're typically illuminating smaller areas, such as pathways, residential streets, or small parking lots. In these situations, lower wattage LED area lights are sufficient.

  • Recommended Wattage Range: 20-50 Watts

These lower wattages will provide ample lighting for visibility and safety without being overly bright.

15-Foot Poles:

With 15-foot poles, you're starting to cover slightly larger areas. You'll need a bit more power to achieve proper illumination.

  • Recommended Wattage Range: 50-100 Watts

This range strikes a good balance between brightness and energy efficiency for spaces like medium-sized parking lots or wider pathways.

20-Foot Poles:

At 20 feet, you're dealing with larger spaces that require significant illumination to ensure safety and visibility.

  • Recommended Wattage Range: 100-150 Watts

These higher wattages will provide a wider and brighter light spread, suitable for large parking lots, commercial areas, and roadways.

25-Foot Poles:

For 25-foot poles, you're maximizing the coverage area and need powerful lighting solutions.

  • Recommended Wattage Range: 150-200 Watts

This range is ideal for illuminating very large parking lots, industrial yards, or areas where high levels of brightness are necessary.

30-Foot Poles:

30-foot poles are typically used for very large areas or where maximum light coverage is required.

  • Recommended Wattage Range: 200-300 Watts or higher

At these heights, you'll need the highest wattage LED area lights to ensure the light reaches the ground with sufficient intensity. This is common in highways, airports, or large industrial complexes.

Important Considerations:

  • Area Size and Shape: The actual size and shape of the area you're lighting will influence your decision. Irregularly shaped areas may require multiple lights with strategically placed poles.

  • Desired Brightness Levels: Different applications require different levels of brightness. For security purposes, higher brightness is often preferred, while for ambient lighting, a softer glow may be sufficient.

  • Local Regulations: Always check local lighting ordinances and regulations. There may be restrictions on the amount of light pollution or specific lighting levels allowed in your area.

  • Existing Lighting: If you're replacing existing lights, consider the wattage of the old fixtures and whether you need an upgrade or downgrade in brightness.

  • Energy Efficiency: LED lights are energy-efficient, but higher wattages will still consume more power. Balance your brightness needs with energy-saving goals.

By considering these factors and the general guidelines provided, you can select the perfect LED area lights for your pole height and ensure your outdoor spaces are well-lit, safe, and energy-efficient.

Reach out to Denver LED Direct if you have any questions or needs for your LED area lights.  

ryan meissner