Is your parking lot a shadowy danger zone?
Well, let’s face it: Dark parking lots act like magnets to trouble. From break-ins to slip and falls, it’s a lawsuit waiting to happen.
But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!
What you need is uniform lighting throughout the facility with no dark patches or pockets to let the criminals sneak in or hide!
Your parking lot security is not just about securing it from thieves and criminals but also to provide you with higher quality illumination and better visibility for drivers and pedestrians.
LED parking lot lights are essential for your property. This blog highlights why you should switch to LED, the different types available, key features, and how they can enhance your lot’s security twofold or even threefold!
Why do you need to switch to LED parking lots?
While in 2019 almost half of all light sources in the world were LEDs, it is predicted that by 2030, around 87 percent of all light sources will be LEDs.
But that is not the reason why you should also switch to LED lights!
According to Angus Mccamant, an expert in device physics, semiconductor, ICs, and a metrologist:
“LEDs are incredibly efficient light sources, converting around 95% of energy into light and only 5% into heat…a remarkable feat.“
Tired of replacing burnt-out bulbs every few months? Make the switch to high-quality LED lamps. Enjoy up to 25 times longer lifespan, saving you time and money.
But the benefits go beyond energy efficiency.
Let’s examine vandalism in dimly lit parking lots: cars getting keyed, smashed wing mirrors, windows, or lights, damaged rims, and even graffiti.
Shockingly, 70% of hit-and-runs happen in parking lots.
Illuminate your space, deter crime, and protect your property with brighter, longer-lasting LED lighting. Check out the different types of LED lights:
Types of LED parking lot lights:
Okay, so you’re ready to illuminate your parking lot, but you’re not sure which type of LED light to choose.
There are a few main players in the outdoor LED parking lot lighting game.
1. LED area lights for parking lots:
These are the most common type, designed to evenly illuminate a large area. Area lights are best for large parking lots of commercial areas and industrial spaces.
2. LED floodlights for parking lots:
Provide concentrated light on specific areas. Floodlights are like the spotlights of the parking lot world. They’re perfect for highlighting specific areas, like entrances or security cameras.
They pack a powerful punch, but they’re usually best used in combination with other types of lights. Flood lights are ideal for illuminating smaller parking lots.
3. LED wall mounted lights for parking lots:
Installed on walls or buildings, providing focused illumination. Smaller parking lots, garages, or areas with limited space for poles.
4. LED Pole-Mounted Lights:
The most common installation method provides wide area coverage.Most parking lot applications, offering flexibility in height and placement.
5. LED bollard lights for parking lots:
Low-level lights typically used for walkways and perimeters. Best for guiding traffic, and providing additional lighting.
6. LED canopy lights for parking lots:
Designed for areas with canopies or overhangs. These lights are ideal for parking areas with covered structures, whether big or small.
Here’s a quick summary of where you can place your LED parking lot lights based on the different areas in your lot :
| Light Type | Potential Placement in Parking Lot |
|---|---|
| Area Lights | Center of large parking lots, evenly spaced |
| Floodlights | Corners, perimeters, entrances/exits, high-security areas |
| Wall-Mounted Lights | Building facades, garage walls, entryways |
| Pole-Mounted Lights | Throughout the parking lot, varying heights |
| Bollard Lights | Walkways, perimeters, islands, guiding traffic |
| Canopy Lights | Under carports, gas station canopies, covered parking areas |
Features of LED parking lot lights:
Light Distribution Patterns:
Understanding light distribution is key to choosing the right LED fixture for your parking lot. Here are the common patterns:
Type I: Wide distribution
Ideal for general area lighting.
Type V: Asymmetrical distribution
Ideal for street corners and intersections.
Color Temperature and Color Rendering Index (CRI):
Choosing the right color temperature and CRI is essential for visibility and safety.
Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K), it determines the light’s color appearance. For example:
- 3000K: Often mandated by municipalities, this warm white light is better for wildlife but compromises visibility and security.
- 4000-5000K: Ideal for parking lots, providing a clear, crisp white light that enhances safety and security.
- 6000K+: Avoid these bluish lights as they can harm eyes and diminish light quality.
Light fixtures:
LED lights have 100-watt, 150-watt, and 300-watt versions in various fixtures. You can choose the fixtures from arm, slip-fitter, and trunnion bracket options. Some of them may also have a wall mount bracket.
Lumen output and fixture efficiency:
These factors determine how bright your parking lot will be and how much energy it will consume.
- Lumen Output: Measures the total amount of light emitted by a fixture. Higher lumens mean brighter light.
- Fixture Efficiency: Measures how effectively a fixture converts electricity into light. A higher efficiency rating means less energy wasted.
How to estimate LED lighting for your parking Lot?
Estimating the right amount of LED lighting for your parking lot involves several factors:
1. Determine the parking lot size:
Measure the length and width of your parking lot to calculate its total square footage.
2. Decide on the desired light level:
The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommends a minimum of 0.2 foot-candles for general parking lots and 0.5 foot-candles for high-security areas.
Consider the specific needs of your parking lot, such as foot traffic, security concerns, and aesthetic preferences.
3. Calculate required Lumens:
Use the formula: Lumens = Area (in square feet) x Desired Foot-Candles.
For example, a 5,000 square foot parking lot with a desired light level of 0.5 foot-candles would require 2,500 lumens.
4. Choose the Right LED fixtures:
Select LED fixtures with appropriate lumen output, light distribution pattern (Type I or V), and color temperature.
Consider the mounting height and spacing of the fixtures for optimal coverage.
5. Factor in light loss:
Account for light loss due to factors like dirt, dust, and fixture aging. Typically, a 20-30% light loss factor is considered.
Important Note: While these calculations provide a general estimate, it’s often recommended to consult with a lighting professional for accurate and tailored recommendations.
Benefits of LED parking lot lights- Enhancing surveillance with LED lighting:
- Crystal clear CCTV video.
- Surveillance gap elimination.
- Significant cost savings.
- Compliance assured: meets iIllumination standards.
- Protect yourself: reduced liability.
- Built to endure: long-lasting.
Crystal clear CCTV video:
When you place a CCTV camera in conjunction with LED lights, you won’t feel like you’re watching a blurry movie when you check your security footage.
Unlike those old, yellowish, high-pressure sodium lamps, LEDs really bathe your parking lot in a bright, clean, white light that truly mimics daylight.
And if you use license plate reader cameras at entrances, then that means your cameras are picking up footage that is significantly sharper. Think crystal clear license plates. Plus the ability to spot even the slightest hint of suspicious activity!
And then there’s the flicker. You know, with those traditional lights? They strobe, but LEDs provide a steady light source. So you get crisp, clean footage every single time.
Surveillance gap elimination:
You know what’s a criminal’s best friend? Darkness. It’s their security blanket! It gives them a chance to steal catalytic converters, rims and tires, license plates, expensive car radios and speakers, laptops, and just about anything they get their hands on!
Not with LED lights around, though:
LED lights banish shadows and dark corners. LED lights turn them into well-lit, open spaces. No more shadowy hideouts for that guy acting shady.
Think about it: If a crook can’t blend into the darkness, they’re much less likely to even try.
Let’s talk about motion sensors for a second. They enhance security, but they don’t like shadows or dim light. The result? Yes, false alarms.
That’s where LED lights come to the rescue. By flooding your parking lot with bright, even light, your motion sensors clearly detect movement, without getting confused by shadows or random fluctuations in light.
Significant cost savings:
If you want to improve visibility to enhance security while saving on energy costs, you have landed on the right blog!
The above research pictures show that compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights consume significantly less energy throughout their lifespan.
While both LED and CFL lamps have similar energy consumption, LEDs are expected to become even more efficient in the future. An LED might cost you $12, but it will last over 20 years!
The biggest energy drain comes from actually using the lamp. Manufacturing and transportation have a minimal impact on overall energy consumption.
By switching to LED lights, you can drastically reduce your energy bills and help protect the environment.
Compliance assured: meets illumination standards:
Look for lights that are ETL listed or UL certified. Follow illumination standards set by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) to ensure proper light levels.
Protect yourself: reduced liability.
A well-lit parking lot can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, protecting your business from potential lawsuits.
Switching to LED parking lot lighting is a smart choice. Today, businesses are spending hundreds of dollars on securing their commercial buildings from the inside!
But what they overlook is that after the perimeter security, the next step should be securing their parking lots because the lot is the intermediary between the perimeter and the building!
That is where thieves hide or where they plan criminal break-ins! And that is actually where the pedestrians get knocked over and instances such as 5 cars colliding in the Pelican Parking lot happen.
Slip and falls, accidents, and injuries on property aren’t just unfortunate incidents; they can be costly legal battles.
Attorney William Turner emphasizes that:
“property owners have a crucial responsibility to maintain safe premises, including parking lots and walkways. If someone gets hurt due to negligence, the property owner could face significant legal repercussions.”
Built to endure: long-lasting.
LED lights require minimum maintenance: LED is made from high quality components that are durable. Hitlights.com have interesting research on the longevity of LED lights:
“They can shine bright for a whopping 50,000 hours. That’s over 13 years of continuous use if you run them for 10 hours daily!“
Wow! Compare this to traditional bulbs, which typically last around 20,000 hours, and you can see why LEDs are a game-changer.
Imagine the hassle (and expense) of replacing those pesky fluorescent bulbs every couple of years. With LEDs, you’re looking at a serious upgrade in terms of maintenance and savings.
The above table shows that LED bulbs consume less energy as compared to the incandescent or halogen bulbs!
How can you make LED lights more effective for parking lots?
Okay, so we have all the data about the best lights to enhance your parking lot’s security.
Let’s now talk a little about how these lights can become more effective in enhancing security.
Yes, with the best parking lot cameras, real action can happen!
Strategically place the parking lot CCTV cameras in conjunction with the LED lights.
Connect these cameras to a trusted remote video monitoring service provider.
As soon as the camera AI detects a security breach, a video alarm is sent to the remote video monitoring center where diligent operators examine the footage and act promptly following each client’s standard procedures.
With AI options as varied as loiterer detection, slip and fall, or crowd detection, you can save your property from all sorts of thefts and vandalism!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs LED parking lots):
Which lighting is best for parking lots?
LED lighting is the optimal choice for parking lots. They offer superior energy efficiency, long lifespan, bright illumination, durability, and environmental benefits compared to traditional lighting options
How long do LED parking lights last?
LED parking lights typically last between 50,000 to 100,000 hours. That’s significantly longer than traditional lighting options, making them a cost-effective and long-term solution.
What is the brightest led parking lot light?
When it comes to parking lot lights, brighter isn’t always better. So, what makes a parking lot light super bright? It’s all about the lumens, not the watts. Lumens measure the amount of light, while watts measure power consumption. More lumens = brighter light.
What size LED lights are used for parking lots?
When people talk about the “size” of a parking lot light, they’re usually referring to its wattage or lumens. Not the actual physical size of the fixture itself.
Bigger lots need bigger lights. More foot traffic or security concerns? You’ll need more light.
Generally, LED parking lot lights range from around 100 watts to 450 watts. But don’t get too caught up in the wattage number. It’s the lumens that really tell you how bright the light is.
How to retrofit LED parking lot lights?
Did you know that you can retrofit your LED lights? Yes all you need is a simple analysis. For large-scale retrofits or complex lighting systems, consider hiring a qualified electrician. But if you want to DIY then just follow these steps:
- Find out the type of fixtures you have (e.g., high-bay, low-bay, floodlights).
- Measure the dimensions of your existing fixtures.
- Consider the wattage and type of bulbs currently used.
- Select LED retrofit kits compatible with your existing fixtures.
- Consider factors like lumen output, color temperature, and beam angle.
- Look for kits with appropriate mounting options (slip-fitters, trunnions).
And that’s it! Place the LED bulb and check the lighting!
Conclusion:
By strategically placing LED lights and integrating them with CCTV cameras, you can create a well-lit environment that deters crime, improves safety, and saves you money.
Don’t let your parking lot be a shadowy danger zone. Upgrade to LED lights and illuminate your security.
If you need a consultation on securing your parking lot, contact us today for expert parking lot security solutions!
