The Difference Between Low and High-Bay Lighting Fixtures

Bay lighting is used to illuminate large, open, indoor spaces, and is mounted at or beneath the ceiling. Bay lighting is commonly used in warehouses, gyms, production facilities, commercial venues, and retail stores, among other places.

There are two basic types of bay lighting: low bay and high bay lighting, which require low bay and high bay lighting fixtures, respectively. But what is the difference between these two basic categories of bay lights and lighting fixtures?

Let’s take a look.

Low Bay Lighting & Fixtures

One of the main differences between low and high bay lighting is the height at which the fixtures are mounted. Low bay light fixtures, for instance, are typically mounted at a height between 12 and 20 feet from the floor.

Low bay lights also generally are less powerful than high bay lights; many of them are beneath 100 watts.

The fixtures also vary in terms of how they are mounted to the ceiling. For low fixtures, suspension with chains and hooks is a common method of mounting.

Low bay lights also have a wider beam angle, somewhere around 120°. The lower mounting height makes a wider beam angle suitable.

High Bay Lighting & Fixtures

High bay light fixtures are typically mounted higher above the floor than low bay fixtures. High bay fixtures are generally mounted between 20 and 40 feet off the floor.

Lighting output and power also differ here, too. Though there are different types of high bay lights, they tend to be rated to 100 watts or higher and have higher lumen output ratings because brighter, more powerful light sources are necessary.

High bay fixtures can be suspended, like low bay lights, using chains and hooks or in the form of pendants. However, since they are higher off the floor, they can also be mounted directly to the ceiling.

The beam angle also differs with high bay lights. The lights themselves usually have a narrower beam angle between 60° and 120°, and the fixtures themselves may contain reflectors to direct and control light distribution to prevent scatter and spill light.

What About Low and High Bay LED Light Replacements?

While many high and low bay lights have traditionally used HID lamps such as metal halide lamps, modern LED replacements are growing in popularity for indoor lighting, even in spaces with high ceilings.

Modern high bay LED lights are extremely energy efficient, have long lifespans, often in excess of 50,000 hours, and are available in a different range of luminous intensities and color temperatures.

In addition to energy efficiency and longevity, LEDs also produce less heat, which keeps cooling costs down, which trait is ideal for indoor settings.

Moreover, some LED replacements are compatible with existing high-bay fixtures, making retrofitting easier and more straightforward. 

LED Replacements, Low-Bay, and High-Bay Lighting Fixtures

For more information on modern LED high bay lights and high and low bay fixtures from leading manufacturers like Euri Lighting, visit ProductsforAutomation.com.

They carry a wide range of lights and lighting fixtures, suitable for an equally wide range of lighting layouts, and all at great prices.

Visit their website today via the link above or get in touch with them at 800-966-2345 for more information.

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