Why Fluorescent Light is a Viable Solution to Low Energy Low Bay Lighting Needs

When it comes to keeping lighting costs to a minimum, the advantages of fluorescent light has traditionally been embraced as the answer to the problem. But not every situation is amply served by this solution, fueling the rise of alternative lighting options that provide stronger light from the greater heights that are sometimes the chief factor at a venue. Of course, not every venue has the same dimensions, which why different lighting options are not universally suitable. A hotel conference room does not need intense lighting, while a factory floor has little use for ambient wall lights. Other than office, home and hospitality lighting, there are also low bay and high bay venues, each of which have differing lighting requirements. Typical low bay lighting is positioned between 10 and 15 feet above the ground, while high bay lighting is positioned above 15 feet, sometimes as high as 35 or 40 feet. However, a factor that is universal is the desire to have low energy lights that will save on energy consumption and, therefore, cost less to run in the long term. The fluorescent option as proven itself to be highly effective in many situations. In the common office, their long lasting service means that they offer an impressively high level of cost efficiency. Perhaps more importantly, however, is the fact that the quality of light provided is consistent, and the ability to suspend fluorescent tube lighting above desks and work areas means that even offices with high ceilings can be amply lit. That versatility also means that even high roofed venues, such as warehouses, can be ably served too. However, there are limits to their effectiveness, which is why the lights need to be lowered, sometimes a considerable distance, and often need to be numerous. It is also why many believe that, in certain situations, the fluorescent option is not the right solution. When it comes to high bay venues, such as large warehouses and some manufacturing facilities, this is particularly true. The quality of light from a fluorescent bulb can be impressive within a certain range, but the intensity of the light decreases dramatically the further it travels. This is why such lights in high roofed venues are suspended so low. More effective lighting methods for such distances are metal halide bulb lighting or sodium lights. In both cases, these lighting technologies provide an intensity that does not fade to the same extend over a distance. They are ideally designed to provide suitable light from heights greater than 15 feet. With low bay venues, however, the latest fluorescent lights have proven capable of matching what these alternatives can provide. The development of PLL fluorescent lighting, in particular, has made this possible. With PLL bulbs, the intensity of light produced is strong enough to illuminate from within 15 feet, without seeing the quality of light greatly reduced. Of course, the advantages of metal halide and sodium, whether high pressure or low pressure, such as those used in common street lights, are perfectly suitable too. Both of these provide a high level of energy efficiency, though both also demand a high initial outlay. Indeed, fluorescent bulbs are generally much more easily available and more affordable, and while in the past a larger number of bulbs were required, modern advances now mean that fewer are needed, lengthy life spans are retained and their overall affordability remains. Other low energy lighting options are the bulkheads that are so common in places such as car parks, building stairwells, and even warehouse passageways, providing plenty of light regardless of the height of the ceiling. In most cases, these low energy lights are powered by just 28 watt or 36 watt bulbs, which ensures a low energy consumption rate. While they are most commonly found overhead, some are also used on walls, either positioned high or low to the ground, to provide extra necessary light in places like multi story car parks, where shadowing can be inconvenient when trying to put a key in a lock, for example. Despite the impressive range of alternatives, the idea that the fluorescent light is not suitable as a low bay lighting solution is easily challenged. High bay lighting remains the domain for sodium and metal halide bulbs, but advancements in fluorescent technology means that it is only a matter of time before that realm is claimed too.