Parking Lot Lighting Guide
by YAHAM | Sep 20, 2023 | Company news |
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Proper lighting in a parking lot is essential for safety, security, and convenience. Whether you're designing a new parking lot or upgrading existing lighting, here's a guide to help you ensure effective and energy-efficient parking lot lighting:
1. Assess Your Needs:
Determine the purpose of your parking lot lighting. Is it for safety, security, or both? Understanding your goals will guide the design process.
2. Research Local Regulations:
Check local building codes and regulations related to parking lot lighting. Ensure compliance with these rules throughout the project.
3. Define Your Goals:
Determine your lighting objectives. Are you looking to improve safety, security, aesthetics, or all of the above? Understanding your goals will guide your lighting design.
4. Choose the Right Fixtures:
Choose fixtures that meet your objectives and are energy-efficient. LED fixtures are a popular choice due to their longevity and low energy consumption. Consider fixtures with adjustable optics to control light distribution.
5. Calculate Lighting Requirements:
Calculate the required lighting levels based on the specific needs of your parking lot. Common industry standards for illuminance (measured in lux or foot-candles) include:
General Parking: 5-10 lux (0.5-1 foot-candles)
Pedestrian Walkways: 10-20 lux (1-2 foot-candles)
High-Activity Areas (e.g., entrances/exits): 20-30 lux (2-3 foot-candles)
Use lighting design software or consult with a professional to determine the exact fixture placement and spacing.
6. Consider Uniformity:
Ensure uniform lighting across the parking lot to minimize dark areas. A uniformity ratio of 3:1 or 4:1 (average to minimum illuminance) is often recommended.
7. Incorporate Motion Sensors:
Install motion sensors or smart lighting controls to reduce energy consumption. Lights can dim or turn off when the area is not in use, and they can brighten when motion is detected.
8. Use Shielding:
Employ full-cutoff fixtures and proper shielding to minimize light pollution, direct light downward, and reduce glare.
9. Implement Maintenance Plans:
Develop a maintenance plan to regularly inspect and maintain the lighting system. Replace faulty bulbs and fixtures promptly to maintain optimal illumination.
10. Budget Considerations:
Balance your lighting goals with your budget. High-quality LED fixtures might have a higher upfront cost but provide long-term savings through energy efficiency and reduced maintenance.
11. Lighting Design Professionals:
If you're unsure about the design and installation process, consider consulting with a lighting design professional who can help create an optimal lighting plan.
By following these steps and considering the specific needs of your parking lot, you can create an effective and energy-efficient lighting system that enhances safety and security while minimizing environmental impact.
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Author:YAHAM Lighting
We specialize in industrial and outdoor lighting solutions, including LED Sports Lighting, Flood Lighting, Street Lighting, and more.
