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  • Writer's pictureBeki Dobson, SIOR

Illuminating Your Warehouse: A Guide to Choosing the Right Lighting

When it comes to design and layout for a warehouse, lighting is one of the most important factors to consider. Proper lighting not only makes it easier for workers to see and maneuver around the facility, lighting can also improve safety, increase productivity and reduce energy costs. However, with so many different types of lighting available, it can be challenging to determine which option is best for your warehouse. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of warehouse lighting and the pros and cons to each.


Fluorescent Lighting

Fluorescent lighting is one of the most commonly used types of lighting for warehouses. It’s relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and provides a bright even light that can help minimize shadows. However, fluorescent lighting does have some downsides. Firstly, it creates a buzzing sound which can be distracting and noisy. Additionally, fluorescent lights contain mercury, which can be very harmful if released into the air. This can make them an environmental hazard if not properly disposed of.


LED Lighting

LED lighting has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its energy efficiency and long lifespan. LED lights consume significantly less energy than other types of lighting, which can lead to significant energy savings over time. They’re also incredibly durable, with many LED lights rated to last up to 50,000 hours. However, LED lights are generally more expensive than other types of lighting and require a higher upfront investment.


High-Intensity Discharge Lighting

High-Intensity Discharge (HID) lighting is another commonly used lighting option for warehouses. HID lights provide a bright, intense light that can cover a large area. However, they do have some downsides. HID lights produce a lot of heat, which can create a hazard in a warehouse with flammable materials. They also require a longer startup time than other types of lighting, which can make them less efficient in applications that require frequent on/off switching.


Induction Lighting

Induction lighting is a type of fluorescent lighting that uses electromagnetic fields to create light rather than electricity. This technology is incredibly efficient, consuming around 60% less energy than traditional fluorescent lighting. Additionally, induction lights have a long lifespan, with some rated to last up to 100,000 hours. However, induction lighting is much more expensive than other types of lighting, and its unique technology can make it difficult to find replacement bulbs and parts.


Halogen Lighting

Halogen lights are a type of incandescent bulb that uses halogen gas to increase the bulb’s efficiency. Halogen lights produce a bright, clear light that’s perfect for warehouses with a lot of detail work. However, halogen lighting is not energy-efficient and has a relatively short lifespan compared to other types of lighting. The bulbs also create a significant amount of heat, which can be a hazard in certain warehouse environments.


Choosing the right lighting for your warehouse involves weighing the pros and cons of each option. Fluorescent lighting is the most commonly used type of lighting as it is affordable and provides an even light source, but it does have its drawbacks like being hazardous to the environment. LED lighting is growing in popularity due to its energy efficiency and long lifespan, but it can be a significant upfront investment. High-Intensity Discharge (HID) lighting has a bright light output but generates heat, and induction lighting is highly efficient with a long lifespan but is costly to install and difficult to find replacement parts. Halogen lights produce a bright light but are not energy-efficient and produce a significant amount of heat. Ultimately, your decision should consider several factors like your warehouse environment, workers’ needs, and budget.

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Miller Industrial Properties, Sparks, Reno, Nevada
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