High Bay Lighting Buying Guide - e-conolight

01 Sep.,2025

 

High Bay Lighting Buying Guide - e-conolight

Buying the right LED high bay light can mean the difference between saving or wasting billions of dollars a year. In commercial settings, especially, any time spent replacing faulty high bay lights means time and productivity lost. Your client needs fixtures that are built to last, to ensure operations continue to run as smooth as possible.

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What Are LED High Bay Lights?

LED high bay lights are designed to provide clear and even light to areas with high ceilings. This includes warehouses, gymnasiums, and certain retail stores. A long lifespan, combined with energy efficiency, makes them a more desirable option than their fluorescent and incandescent options.

You might be wondering what the difference is between high bay and low bay lighting. Wonder no more. High bay lights are perfect for applications with ceilings that are 20-45 feet tall, while low bay lights are for ceilings that are between 12-20 feet high.

What Are the Benefits of High Bay Lights?

Besides clear, uniform lighting with little glare? Where do we start?

Lower Expenses to Run & Maintain

High bay lights are easy to install and have a lifespan of 100,000 hours—which means less time worrying about replacing burnt-out bulbs and more time being able to commit to work and other important matters. High bay lights are long-lasting and some are equipped with an emergency backup so you’re never without light when you need it most.

High-Quality Light Performance

If you’ve ever been on the road and noticed another car’s bright high beams, chances are they could be equipped with LED headlights. LED lights have remarkable color accuracy (CRI) and color temperature (CCT). The Color Rendering Index is a reflection of how well light can match an object's objectionable appearance when compared to natural daylight. Anything above 80 is typically good quality. CCT denotes the amount of yellow, white, or blue tinges that are outputted visibly. LED bay lights continually outperform in all areas when compared to traditional lighting sources. In addition, LED lights can easily replace a variety of bulbs and light bases.

Unmatched Energy Efficiency

LEDs can reduce energy output by up to 85%, making them a must-have for businesses of all types. Some LED bay lights also have dimmers for additional savings on your electric bill. Their energy-efficient characteristics allow businesses to save money and put more direct saving back into their pocket. High bay lights are equipped with reflectors, which allow light to spread down and away from the ceiling, covering areas that need more light. This direct dispersal of light is essential for warehouses for safe working conditions, as well as for illuminating cars in dealerships where optimal lighting conditions are warranted. LED bay lights can be mounted in a variety of options, which makes them the ideal choice for warehouses, factories, dealerships, gymnasiums, etc.

What Are the Primary Types of LED High Bays?

Round High Bay Lights

Commonly called UFO high bays because of their saucer-like shape, round LED high bay lights have only one contact point with the ceiling, making them the easiest high bays to install. Round high bay LED lights typically provide a circular light beam angle of about 120 degrees. This fairly large beam spread allows for widespread, but powerful, illumination. These are an excellent choice for open areas, like factories, warehouses, sports arenas, grocery and wholesale retailers, and even aircraft hangars.

Linear High Bay Lights

Linear high bay lights are commonly seen in grocery stores, wholesale retailers, warehouses, and any other wide-open spaces with a lot of aisles or shelving. They provide ideal lighting for conference halls, event centers and fitness centers, too. Similar in appearance to a fluorescent T8, linear high bays are long, with differing widths to offer rectangular illumination to suit your space’s needs. They can be mounted directly to the ceiling or hung with chains or cables, depending on your needs.

Where Are High Bay Lights Most Appropriate?

Warehouses

LED high bays ensure that warehouse operations run as smoothly as possible, with little to no interruption. They also emit less heat, which means less cooling costs for a facility. Uniform light levels make it easy to see inventory shelves from top to bottom.

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Auto and Metal Shops

LED high bay lights bring out the true colors of everything underneath them. That includes making cars look their best, which entices potential customers to buy.

Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

Crisp and clear LED lighting, featuring an 80+ CRI, makes the produce section of any grocery store look its best. Think of the strawberries, the raspberries, the fruit…each needs to be sold before they go to waste. And what better way to do it than with LED high bay lights?

How to Pick the Appropriate Wattage and Lumens

High Bay LED lights are available in different watts, but its the lumens you need to keep an eye on. As LEDs get more efficient, they will use less and less watts. You can easily choose one depending on the height where the high bay lights are installed. There are different watts for different levels of height:

  • 10-15 feet – This height is ideal for lights with 10,000 to 15,000 lumens.
  • 15-20 feet – This height is ideal for lights with 16,000 to 20,000 lumens.
  • 25-35 feet – For this height, lights with 33,000 lumens are ideal.

Spacing

The spacing between lights is also an important factor in choosing high bay LED High Bay lights. There are three most common cases that you can consider to find the best light for your space. These are listed below:

  • At 15 feet height, about 12 feet spacing is essential for a bright light. However, if you need normal light, a space of 15 feet should be present.
  • At 20 feet high you can go to 15 feet spacing for generating bright light and if you need normal light, a spacing of 18 feet should be used.
  • At 30 feet height, you can go for 20 feet spacing between the lights in order to get a brighter light. However, for normal light, you can go for 25 feet spacing.

Number of Lights

After you’ve determined the spacing between the lights, you’ll need to figure out how many lights you’re going to need. The number of lights depends on the available space. Using the spacing and quality of brightness you need, you can calculate the number of lights you’ll be needing for a particular space. You can also create a lighting layout with our free tool.

Type of Lights

High Bay lights are available in a variety of shapes. We offer both round lights and LED Linear High Bay Lights. And some people might not know that if you hang round high bays a few feet higher, they might just spread out illumination the way you need it. Above about 15 feet, we recommend round high bays. Why? They’re easier to install. But in areas with aisles and lower heights, linear lights are ideal.

Always Get Crossover Lighting

In order to get better light, you should have light coming from different directions. This is called crossover lighting and, ideally, it needs to come from at least 3 locations. This way, the light coming from opposite sides reduces shadows and evens the lighting. As a result, you get better light that avoids hot spots. You may have to plan for lower lumens but more fixtures to get the right combination.

Lumens

Last but not least, you should always look for lumens, not watts. No matter how many watts you choose, if there aren’t enough lumens, you won’t be able to get the light you need.

That's a Wrap

Now that you’re an expert on LED high bays, take a look at ours. Not only are they all UL/ETL listed, but they’ll last you over 100,000 hours of maintenance-free operation.

Need help picking the right LED high bay for you? We have lighting experts available to you at 1-888-243-. Give them a ring. They’re happy to help.

For more Wholesale Linear LED High Bay Lightsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

LED High Bay Lights - A Buyer's Guide From The Experts

LED High Bay Lights Buyers Guide

In warehouses, manufacturing plants, gymnasiums, and other large facilities, LED high bay lights are on the job, providing superior lighting quality, energy efficiency, and long-term savings. There's no doubt about it – installing LED high bay lights is a strategic decision that pays off in the long run.Let's explore the benefits of LED high bays. We'll break down the costs involved, and provide a step-by-step installation process. We'll also compare LED high bay lights to traditional lighting options, discuss essential maintenance tips, and help you choose the right type of lights for your specific needs. Finally, we'll show how The Expert can provide the best LED high bay lights for your facility. Whether you're considering an upgrade or optimizing your current setup, this comprehensive guide has you covered.

What are LED High Bay Lights?

Bay lighting is the name of lights used in commercial bays. Over time they became known as high bay for over 12 feet high and low bay lights for under 12 feet. Today LED High bay Lights are any fixtures hung at higher than 12' and over 10,000 lumens. They can be round, or rectangle and hang from one or two points.If you are looking for a smart and efficient way to light up your commercial space, you may want to consider LED high bay lights. LED high bay lights are special lights that are designed for spaces with high ceilings, such as warehouses, factories, stadiums, or gyms. They provide bright and uniform illumination for large areas, enhancing the visibility and safety of your space.LED High Bay Light Warehouse Installation - LED Light Expert

Benefits of Upgrading to High Bay LED Shop Lights

Switching to high bay LED shop lights is a smart move that brings advantages across multiple areas. Let's discuss why making the change is a smart decision for your facility:Energy Savings and EfficiencyLED high bay lights are champions of energy efficiency. They use a fraction of the power required for traditional lighting solutions like metal halide or fluorescent fixtures – yet they deliver superior brightness. This reduced energy consumption translates directly into lower utility bills, cutting lighting costs by as much as 75%. Over time, the savings accumulate, providing a quick return on investment (ROI) and freeing up resources for other operational needs.Improved Light Quality and BrightnessOne of the standout features of LED high bay lights is their exceptional light quality. LEDs offer a brighter, more uniform light distribution, eliminating dark spots and inconsistent illumination often found with older lighting technologies. The result is a more comfortable and productive environment, whether you're lighting up a warehouse floor, a gymnasium, or a retail space. The enhanced visibility improves safety, reduces eye strain, and can even boost morale in workspaces.Longevity and DurabilityLED high bay lights are built to last. With lifespans exceeding 50,000 hours, these lights outshine traditional fixtures by a wide margin. This means fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs over time. LED lights are also more durable, withstanding shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures much better than their predecessors. This durability makes them ideal for tough environments like manufacturing plants or outdoor facilities.Environmental Impact and SustainabilityLEDs are more eco-friendly than traditional lighting options for several reasons. First, their energy efficiency means a lower carbon footprint. Second, LEDs last much longer, which means fewer lamps are discarded and fewer are sitting in landfills. Third, LEDs produce less heat, which can contribute to a cooler work environment and reduce the need for additional cooling systems. Finally, LEDs contain no harmful substances like the mercury found in fluorescent lights. Follow these steps to successfully retrofit your high bay lights with LEDs:
  1. Power Off: Always disconnect the power at the circuit breaker before starting any electrical work. Use a lockout/tagout kit to prevent accidental re-energization.
  2. Remove Existing Fixtures: Disconnect the wiring by unscrewing the wire connectors and separating the wires. If the old fixtures are heavy, have someone assist you to avoid injury.
  3. Install Mounting Hardware: Depending on your new high bay LED light fixtures, you may need to install new mounting brackets or chains. Secure the hardware to the ceiling, ensuring it can support the weight of the LED fixtures.
  4. Connect the Wiring: Strip the insulation off the ends of the wires coming from the ceiling and the LED fixture. Connect the wires using wire connectors — typically, black to black (live), white to white (neutral), and green to green or bare copper (ground). Wrap the connections with electrical tape for added security.
  5. Mount the LED Fixtures: Attach the LED high bay fixtures to the mounting hardware. Ensure the fixtures are securely fastened and the wiring is neatly tucked away.
  6. Test the Lights: Once everything is in place, restore power at the electrical panel and test the lights. Check for any flickering or issues with brightness. If the lights don't turn on, switch off the power and double-check the wiring connections.
LED High Bay Lights Installation - LED Light ExpertSafety Precautions During InstallationSafety is paramount when working with electrical systems. Follow these precautions to minimize risk:
  • Make sure the power is off. Use a voltage tester to confirm that no electricity is flowing to the fixtures.
  • Ensure your ladder or lift is stable and rated for the height you're working at. 
  • Wear safety gloves and goggles to protect against electrical shocks and debris.
  • Ensure that the circuit you're connecting the LED lights to can handle the load. If unsure, consult an electrician to verify the capacity.
  • If the lights or tools are heavy or awkward, have someone assist you during the installation to prevent accidents.
Troubleshooting Common IssuesEven with careful installation, you might encounter a few issues. Here's how to troubleshoot common problems:
  • Lights Won't Turn On: Double-check that the wiring connections are secure and correct. Ensure the circuit breaker is on and the voltage is present at the fixture.
  • Flickering Lights: Flickering could indicate a loose connection or an incompatible dimmer switch. Tighten all connections and ensure the dimmer is compatible with LED lighting.
  • Uneven Light Distribution: If the light appears uneven, check the alignment of the fixtures and ensure they're mounted at the correct height and distance.
  • Excessive Heat: LEDs should not produce excessive heat. If they do, ensure they're not installed in an enclosed space or near other heat-producing devices. Verify that the fixture is rated for the environment.
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of LED High Bay LightsLED high bay lights are known for their long lifespan, but there are steps you can take to maximize their durability and performance:
  • Install in Suitable Environments: Ensure the high bay LED light fixtures are installed in environments appropriate for their design. For example, if your facility has high humidity or extreme temperatures, choose LED fixtures rated for those conditions to prevent premature failure.
  • Use Quality Fixtures and Components: Cheaper alternatives may save money upfront but often fail sooner and require more frequent replacements.
  • Avoid Frequent Switching: Constantly turning LED lights on and off can shorten their lifespan. Minimize the number of times the lights are switched on and off. If your facility requires frequent on-off cycles, consider using LEDs with a high on-off cycle rating.
  • Monitor and Maintain the Power Supply: Ensure the power supply is stable and within the recommended voltage range for your LED fixtures. Fluctuations in voltage can cause wear on the LEDs and reduce their lifespan. Installing surge protectors can help safeguard your lights from power spikes.
Actual Install 240 Watt Fixtures - LED High Bay Lights - LED Light Expert

Types of High Bay Lights and Their Ideal Applications

Below is an overview of the most common types of high bay lights and the facilities where they're best suited. You'll find all of these fixtures at LED Lighting Expert. Please get in touch with our helpful customer care team if you need anything.UFO High Bay LightsUFO high bay lights are circular, compact, and highly efficient. They're known for their robust design and excellent heat dissipation, making them a popular choice in industrial settings. Warehouses, manufacturing plants, and large retail stores benefit from UFO high bay lights due to their uniform light distribution and durability.Linear High Bay LightsLinear high bay lights are rectangular and replace traditional fluorescent tube lighting. They provide even illumination across large areas and are ideal for spaces with wide aisles.They're perfect for gymnasiums, auto dealerships, and other spaces requiring long, linear light distribution.Motion Sensor Warehouse LightsMotion sensor high bay lights are equipped with sensors that detect movement, automatically turning the lights on or off as needed. This feature maximizes energy savings by ensuring that lights are only used when necessary. Motion sensors are ideal for warehouses and manufacturing plants where areas are not continuously occupied.Dimmable High Bay LightsDimmable high bay lights offer adjustable brightness, allowing you to control the light levels based on the needs of the environment. This flexibility can further enhance energy savings and improve the overall lighting experience. They're often used by retail stores and gymnasiums, where varying light levels may be required throughout the day.High Voltage 480v Warehouse LightsThese high bay lights are designed for facilities with higher voltage requirements, ensuring consistent performance in demanding environments. Large-scale industrial facilities and warehouses with high ceilings and high voltage power systems often require 480v lights for optimal performance.Replacement 400-Watt Metal Halide400-watt replacements are used to upgrade from outdated 400-watt metal halide fixtures to LEDs. Facilities like auto dealerships, large retail stores, and warehouses that have traditionally used metal halide lights will benefit most from this upgrade.

Design a Layout for Your High Bay Lights

LED high bay lights are a smart and efficient way to light up your commercial space. They provide bright and uniform illumination for large areas, enhancing the visibility and safety of your space. However, before you buy and install LED high bay lights, you need to plan the layout of your lights carefully. The layout of your lights depends on several factors, such as:What is The Purpose of Your Space?Different spaces have different lighting needs and preferences. For example, if you have a retail store, you may want a bright light to attract more customers and showcase your products. If you have a warehouse, you may want a moderate light to improve the work environment for your staff. If you have a storage, you may want a low light to save energy and reduce costs. The lighting needs of your space are measured in lux, which is the amount of light that falls on a surface per square meter. The recommended lux levels for different spaces are:
  • Retail store: At least 800 lux/ 80 fc on the ground to create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
  • Warehouse: Around 500 lux / 50 fc on the ground to provide enough visibility and comfort for your workers.
  • Storage: Around 300 lux / 30 fc on the ground to provide sufficient lighting and save energy.
When you know the requirements, it is time to choose the wattage that has enough lumens to reach your desired lux or footcandle number.Wattage and Lumens - How to choose the correct amountHigh Bay LED lights are available in different watts, but its the lumens you need to keep an eye on. As LEDs get more efficient they will use less and less watts. You can easily choose one depending on the height where the high bay lights are installed. There are different watts for different levels of height:
  • 10-15 feet – This height is ideal for lights with 10,000 to 15,000 lumens.
  • 15-20 feet – This height is ideal for lights with 16,000 to 20,000 lumens.
  • 25-35 feet – For this height, lights with 33,000 lumens are ideal.
LED High Bay Light Installation - LED Light Expert

FAQs About LED High Bay Lights

Below, we've addressed some common questions about LED high bay lights. Please contact us if you'd like more information about our products.How many LED high bay lights do I need?The number of LED high bay lights you need depends on the size of the area you're illuminating, the height of your ceilings, and the brightness level required for your specific application. A general rule of thumb is that for every 100 square feet, you need approximately 2,000-3,000 lumens. However, it's best to conduct a lighting assessment or use a lighting layout tool to determine the exact number of fixtures needed to achieve optimal illumination.What is the ideal distance between high bay lights?The spacing between high bay lights depends on the ceiling height and the beam angle of the fixtures. For ceilings that are 20-30 feet high, a spacing of 15-20 feet between fixtures is generally recommended. For ceilings over 30 feet, spacing of 20-30 feet is ideal. Proper spacing ensures even light distribution without dark spots or overly bright areas.Are LED high bay lights suitable for outdoor use?Some LED high bay lights are rated for outdoor use, but it's essential to check the IP rating of the fixtures. An IP rating indicates the level of protection against dust and moisture. For outdoor use, look for LED lights with an IP65 or higher rating to ensure they can withstand exposure to the elements. These lights are ideal for outdoor warehouses, loading docks, or large outdoor workspaces.

LED Warehouse Lights Explained

Dan demonstrates everything you need to know about LED high bay lighting.