High Bay Lighting Calculator

High Bay Lighting Formula:

\[ \text{Number of Lights} = \frac{\text{Area} \times \text{Footcandles}}{\text{Lumens per Light}} \]

Number of Lights Needed:

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1. What is High Bay Lighting Calculation?

The High Bay Lighting calculation determines the number of high bay lights needed to properly illuminate a space based on the area size, desired light level (in footcandles), and the lumen output of each light fixture.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the High Bay Lighting formula:

\[ \text{Number of Lights} = \frac{\text{Area} \times \text{Footcandles}}{\text{Lumens per Light}} \]

Where:

\( Area \) — Area to be illuminated (square feet)
\( Footcandles \) — Desired illumination level (fc)
\( Lumens \) — Light output per fixture (lumens)

Explanation: The equation calculates how many light fixtures are needed to achieve the desired illumination level in a given area.

3. Importance of Proper Lighting Calculation

Details: Accurate lighting calculations ensure proper illumination for safety and productivity while avoiding energy waste from over-lighting or inadequate lighting that can cause eye strain and accidents.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the area in square feet, desired footcandle level (typical values range from 20-100 fc for industrial spaces), and the lumen output of your chosen fixtures. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical footcandle requirements?
A: Warehouse aisles: 10-20 fc, assembly work: 50-75 fc, detailed work: 75-100 fc, retail spaces: 30-50 fc.

Q2: How do I find my fixture's lumen output?
A: Check manufacturer specifications. LED high bays typically range from 15,000 to 50,000 lumens per fixture.

Q3: Does mounting height affect the calculation?
A: Yes, higher mounting requires more lumens to achieve the same footcandle level at floor level. This calculator assumes standard mounting heights (15-40 ft).

Q4: Should I account for light loss factors?
A: For precise calculations, multiply the result by 1.2-1.5 to account for lumen depreciation, dirt accumulation, and other factors.

Q5: How does light color affect the calculation?
A: Color temperature (measured in Kelvin) affects perceived brightness but not the footcandle measurement. Higher Kelvin (5000K+) appears brighter than warm white (3000K) at same lumen output.