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The Best Bay Lights: Top 5 Lights for Large Shops and Barns

Last updated: August 27, 2024

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

Have you ever walked into a horse barn, large shed, or indoor arena and noticed how dark it can be? Well, I have, and it got me thinking about the best ways to brighten up these giant areas. So, I went on an adventure to discover the most effective barn and bay lights for big spaces, and I can’t wait to share my findings.

Choosing the right lighting solution for large indoor spaces can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to energy efficiency, brightness, and durability. This comprehensive guide will explore the best bay lights available on the market, focusing on LED lights, light fixtures, and the factors to consider when selecting the perfect lighting option for your commercial or residential space.

In this blog post, we’re going to explore some fantastic lighting options that can turn even the darkest corners of large rooms into bright and welcoming spaces. I’ll be telling you about my favorite light fixtures and why I think they’re the perfect choice for big places like warehouses, gyms, or even our beloved horse barns.

The Rise of LED Lights

In recent years, LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights have gained popularity for their long-lasting, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly properties. These light bulbs outshine traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs in terms of longevity, consuming less energy and producing more light per watt.

LED lights also emit less heat, making them an ideal choice for large spaces such as warehouses, factories, and commercial spaces that require good lighting for extended hours of use.

Picture of a commercial storage unit lit by bay lights.
LED lights are used to illuminate a commercial space.

LED Lighting Fixtures: The Best Bay Lights for Large Spaces

LED lighting fixtures come in various shapes, sizes, and designs to cater to different needs and preferences. This guide will focus on some of the best bay lights for large indoor spaces, highlighting their features, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. The following are some top choices for LED bay lights:

1. Lightdot 250W LED High Bay Light 35000lm

The Lightdot 250W LED High Bay Light is a high-performance lighting solution that combines powerful illumination with energy efficiency, making it an ideal choice for large indoor spaces. This light fixture delivers an impressive 35,000 lumens, ensuring bright and consistent lighting for commercial and industrial applications.

One of the standout features of the Lightdot LED High Bay Light is its energy efficiency. With a 250W power supply, this light fixture consumes significantly less energy than traditional lighting options, reducing energy costs and contributing to a more sustainable environment.

The LED element in the Lightdot High Bay Light ensures that it outperforms ordinary lights in terms of energy consumption and longevity. The Lightdot 250W LED High Bay Light comes with a hook mount, facilitating easy installation in various settings such as warehouses, factories, and large retail spaces.

Its durable design and robust construction ensure that this fixture can withstand the test of time, providing reliable lighting for extended hours of use. Another noteworthy feature of the Lightdot LED High Bay Light is its adjustable-angle design.

This allows for customized lighting solutions, catering to specific needs and preferences in different spaces. The light fixture also incorporates advanced heat dissipation technology, preventing overheating and ensuring a longer lifespan.

In conclusion, the Lightdot 250W LED High Bay Light 35000lm is an exceptional high bay light for large indoor spaces. Its powerful illumination, energy efficiency, and ease of installation make it a highly recommended choice for commercial and industrial applications.

2. Sunco Lighting UFO LED (Bay Lights): High-Performing and Energy-Saving

The Sunco Lighting UFO LED High Bay Light: A High-Performing and Energy-Saving Solution for Commercial Spaces

The Sunco Lighting UFO LED High Bay Light stands out as a top choice for commercial spaces like warehouses and factories, offering exceptional performance and energy efficiency. Its advanced features make it a reliable and cost-effective lighting solution for various applications.

Energy-Efficient LED Technology: The Sunco UFO LED High Bay Light is equipped with an energy-efficient LED element, which consumes significantly less energy compared to ordinary lights. This results in lower energy costs and a reduced environmental impact, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to save on energy bills and promote sustainability.

Superior Heat Dissipation: The Sunco UFO high bay LED light boasts impressive heat dissipation properties, ensuring that the fixture remains cool even during extended periods of use. This feature contributes to the light’s longevity and reduces the risk of potential overheating-related issues, providing you with a safe and reliable lighting solution.

ETL DLC Certification: The Sunco UFO LED High Bay Light comes with an ETL DLC certification, which attests to its safety and performance. This certification provides peace of mind, knowing that the product has been rigorously tested and found to meet the stringent industry standards for quality and safety.

Easy Installation with Built-in Hook Mount: The Sunco UFO LED High Bay Light features a built-in hook mount, making the installation process straightforward and hassle-free. This design ensures that the light can be easily installed and adjusted to suit various lighting needs in commercial spaces.

Optional Motion Sensor for Added Energy Savings: The Sunco UFO LED High Bay Light offers the option to include a motion sensor, providing an additional layer of energy-saving features. With this sensor, the lights only turn on when motion is detected, further reducing energy consumption and contributing to a more eco-friendly lighting solution.

In summary, the Sunco Lighting UFO LED High Bay Light is an excellent choice for commercial spaces like warehouses and factories, delivering high performance, energy efficiency, and advanced features. Its superior heat dissipation, ETL DLC certification, easy installation, and optional motion sensor make it a versatile and reliable lighting option for a wide range of applications.

3. The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light: Powerful, Efficient, and Durable

The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light stands out as an excellent choice for large warehouses, commercial spaces, and other expansive areas requiring powerful and energy-efficient illumination. Its advanced design and features ensure top-notch performance while minimizing energy consumption and maintenance requirements.

Bright Illumination and Energy Efficiency: The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light delivers bright and consistent light, making it ideal for expansive spaces that require ample illumination. Its energy-efficient LED technology significantly reduces energy use while providing powerful light, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.

Easy Installation with Preinstalled Hook: The fixture’s general design includes a preinstalled hook, simplifying the installation process and saving valuable time. This feature ensures that the Hyperlite LED High Bay Light can be easily mounted and adjusted to suit various lighting needs and requirements in large spaces.

Wide Range of Lighting Angles: The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light offers a broad range of lighting angles, ensuring optimal light distribution across the entire space. This versatility enables it to cater to different requirements and preferences, making it a highly adaptable light solution for diverse settings.

Long-lasting Durability: The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light is known for its durability, providing up to 50,000 hours of use. This impressive lifespan minimizes maintenance costs and the need for frequent replacements, making it an ideal long-term investment for large spaces.

ETL DLC Certification: The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light comes with an ETL DLC certification, which is a testament to its high-quality performance, safety, and adherence to industry standards. This certification offers peace of mind to users, knowing that the product has been rigorously tested and found to meet stringent requirements.

The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light is a top-tier choice for large warehouses, commercial spaces, and other extensive areas that demand powerful, efficient, and durable lighting. Its advanced design, easy installation, versatile angles, impressive durability, and certified performance make it an ideal solution for various applications.

4. The Linear LED High Bay Light: Energy-Efficient Choice for Diverse Applications

The Linear LED High Bay Light stands out as a versatile lighting solution suitable for both commercial and residential settings. With its sleek, modern design and powerful LED lights, this fixture offers exceptional performance while adding a touch of sophistication to any space.

Bright and Consistent Illumination: Equipped with high-quality LED lights, the Linear LED High Bay Light delivers bright and consistent illumination throughout the area. This makes it an ideal choice for various applications, such as large warehouses, retail stores, gyms, or even residential spaces with high ceilings.

Easy Installation with Hook Mount: One of the key advantages of this high bay linear light is its easy installation process. The fixture comes with a hook mount, allowing for quick and hassle-free setup in a wide range of settings. This feature adds to the light’s versatility and adaptability, making it suitable for various applications, including aisle lights and general-purpose lighting.

Energy Efficiency for Long-lasting Savings: As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important, the Linear LED High Bay Light shines in this aspect. Its energy-efficient LED technology ensures that your energy bills remain manageable even with extended hours of use. This not only helps you save on energy costs but also contributes to a more sustainable environment.

In summary, the Linear LED High Bay Light is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, stylish, and energy-efficient lighting solution for large spaces. Its sleek design, powerful illumination, easy installation, and energy-saving features make it an attractive option for a wide range of applications, from commercial to residential use.

5. Grandlumen LED High Bay Light

The Grandlumen LED High Bay Light is a top choice for those seeking a combination of good lighting, energy efficiency, and easy installation. This fixture’s LED element provides bright and clear illumination, while its energy-saving features help reduce energy use.

The Grandlumen LED High Bay Light comes with a preinstalled hook and a general design that suits a wide range of applications, making it suitable for both commercial and residential use.

5. Bulbeats LED High Bay Light Series

The Bulbeats LED High Bay Light is a versatile lighting solution that offers bright illumination and energy-saving features. Its LED element ensures that the fixture consumes less power than ordinary lights, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for large indoor spaces.

This fixture provides warmer colors, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The Bulbeats LED High Bay Light is suitable for various applications, including warehouses, gyms, and retail spaces. Its heat dissipation properties further enhance its durability, ensuring a long-lasting lighting solution for any setting.

Picture of a shed with the bay lights off.
Picture of bay lights on in a shed.

Optimal Specifications for Large Space Lighting Solutions

When choosing lights for large spaces, it’s crucial to consider the right specifications to ensure optimal illumination, energy efficiency, and durability. Here are the best specifications to look for when selecting lighting for large spaces:

  1. High Lumen Output: To ensure proper illumination in large spaces, choose fixtures with a high lumen output, preferably between 10,000 to 50,000 lumens or more, depending on the space size. A higher lumen value indicates a brighter light output, which is essential for visibility and safety in expansive areas.
  2. Energy-Efficient Wattage: Look for fixtures with a lower wattage, ideally between 100W to 300W for LED lights. This range provides better performance while consuming less energy than traditional lighting options, making it ideal for large spaces.
  3. Suitable Color Temperature: Select fixtures with a color temperature that matches the desired ambiance and function of the space. For large commercial or industrial spaces, cooler color temperatures between 4,000K to 6,500K are generally preferred because they provide a crisp and clean light that enhances productivity and visibility.

Keep in mind that the specific numbers may vary depending on the size and function of the space, as well as the desired brightness and energy efficiency. Be sure to consider these factors when determining the optimal specifications for your large space lighting needs.

High Bay Lights Explained: Powerful Illumination for Expansive Spaces

When describing lights, the term “bay” refers to a specific type of high-intensity lighting fixture designed for illuminating large and open indoor spaces, such as warehouses, factories, gymnasiums, or retail stores.

These lighting fixtures are often called “high bay lights” or simply “bay lights” because they are designed to provide powerful illumination for spaces with high ceilings, typically ranging from 15 to 45 feet or higher.

Bay lights are engineered to distribute light evenly and effectively across large areas, ensuring good visibility and safety. They are commonly equipped with energy-efficient light sources, such as LED bulbs, which consume less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting options.

Decoding Light Specifications: Lumens, ETL, Kelvin, and Watts Explained

Understanding the specifications listed for lights is essential to make informed decisions when choosing the right lighting solution for your needs. Here’s a breakdown of some common specifications you may encounter:

  1. lm (Lumens): Lumens are a measure of the total amount of visible light emitted by a source. A higher lumen value indicates a brighter light output. When choosing lights, consider the lumens to determine the brightness and intensity of the light emitted by the fixture.
  2. ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories): ETL is a safety certification mark issued by Intertek, a third-party testing and certification organization. An ETL mark indicates that the product has been tested for safety and performance according to the relevant industry standards. When selecting lighting fixtures, look for the ETL mark to ensure that the product is reliable and safe to use.
  3. K (Kelvin): Kelvin is a unit of measurement used to describe the color temperature of light. Lower Kelvin values (e.g., 2,700K-3,000K) produce warmer, yellowish light, while higher values (e.g., 5,000K-6,500K) produce cooler, bluish-white light. The choice of color temperature depends on the desired atmosphere and the application of the lighting. For example, warmer light is generally preferred in residential settings, while cooler light is often used in commercial and industrial environments.
  4. W (Watts): Watts is a unit of measurement for electrical power. In the context of lighting, the wattage indicates the amount of energy consumed by the light source to produce a certain amount of light. Lower wattage values generally correspond to lower energy consumption, making the fixture more energy-efficient. When choosing lights, consider the wattage to estimate the energy costs and efficiency of the fixture.

By understanding these specifications, you can make better-informed decisions when selecting the appropriate light solution for your space, ensuring the right balance of brightness, energy efficiency, safety, and color temperature.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting High Bay Lighting

When choosing lights for large areas, several specific considerations should be taken into account to ensure optimal illumination and energy efficiency. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

  1. Illumination and Brightness: Large spaces require sufficient lighting to ensure safety, visibility, and a comfortable atmosphere. Consider the total lumen output of the lighting fixtures and the distribution of light to cover the entire area evenly.
  2. Energy Efficiency: Large spaces can consume significant amounts of energy. Opt for energy-efficient solutions such as LED lights that provide better performance while consuming less energy than traditional lighting options.
  3. Durability and Lifespan: Light fixtures for large areas should be durable and long-lasting to minimize maintenance costs and the frequency of replacements. Look for fixtures with high-quality materials and a proven track record of longevity.
  4. Heat Dissipation: Efficient heat dissipation is essential for large spaces, especially when the lights are used for extended periods. Choose fixtures with proper heat management features to prevent overheating and ensure a longer lifespan.
  5. Installation and Mounting Options: Depending on the structure and layout of the large space, different mounting options may be necessary. Consider fixtures with versatile installation options, such as hook mounts, surface mounts, or suspension mounts.
  6. Safety and Certifications: Look for light fixtures with safety certifications, such as ETL or DLC, to ensure compliance with industry standards and reliable performance.
  7. Customizability and Controls: Large spaces may require light fixtures with adjustable brightness or color temperature settings to cater to specific needs. Consider options with dimmable features, motion sensors, or remote control capabilities.
  8. Aesthetics and Design: While functionality is crucial, the design and aesthetics of the light fixtures should not be overlooked. Choose fixtures that complement the overall design and style of the space.

Linear LED High Bay Lights vs. Standard LED High Bay Lights: Key Differences

Linear LED high bay lights and standard LED high bay lights are both designed to provide powerful illumination for large spaces with high ceilings. However, there are some key differences between these two types of fixtures:

  1. Design and Form Factor: One of the primary differences between linear LED high bay lights and standard LED high bay lights is their design and form factor. Linear LED high bay lights have a long, slim, and sleek profile, resembling a rectangular tube. They often use multiple LED strips to provide uniform and consistent lighting. In contrast, standard LED high bay lights come in various shapes and designs, with the most common being round or UFO-shaped fixtures that house a single LED element or an array of LED chips.
  2. Light Distribution: Linear LED high bay lights are designed to provide more even and widespread light distribution across a larger area. This makes them ideal for spaces where uniform illumination is crucial, such as assembly lines, manufacturing facilities, and retail stores. On the other hand, standard LED high bay lights typically have a more focused and concentrated light output, making them suitable for spaces where specific tasks are performed, such as warehouses or workshops.
  3. Installation and Mounting Options: Linear LED high bay lights are usually installed using a suspension or surface mounting system. They can be mounted individually or connected in a series to cover larger spaces. Standard LED high bay lights are generally installed using a hook mount or a chain suspension system, which makes them easy to adjust and position as needed.
  4. Aesthetic Appeal: The slim and modern design of linear LED high bay lights can provide a more visually appealing and contemporary look to a space. This makes them a popular choice for settings where aesthetics are essential, such as retail stores or commercial office spaces. Standard LED high bay lights, while functional and effective, may not offer the same level of visual appeal due to their more utilitarian design.

Linear LED high bay lights and standard LED high bay lights both serve to provide powerful illumination for large spaces with high ceilings. However, their key differences lie in their design, form factor, light distribution, installation options, and aesthetic appeal.

The choice between these two types of fixtures largely depends on the specific needs and preferences of the space they will be used in. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision when selecting the ideal light solution for your large indoor space.

Included in the YouTube video is a tour of our horse barn.

YouTube video

Top LED High Bay Lights for Horse Barns

For large horse barns, it is essential to choose lights that provide adequate illumination, energy efficiency, and safety. Considering these factors, the following bay lights are suitable options for horse barns:

  1. Hyperlite LED High Bay Light: With its powerful illumination and energy efficiency, the Hyperlite LED High Bay Light is an excellent choice for large horse barns. The fixture’s wide range of light angles ensures an even light distribution across the space.
  2. Linear LED High Bay Light: The sleek and modern design of the Linear LED High Bay Light makes it a versatile option for horse barns. Its powerful LED lights provide bright and consistent illumination, while the hook mount ensures easy installation.
  3. Bulbeats LED High Bay Light: The Bulbeats LED High Bay Light offers warmer colors, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for both horses and their caretakers. Its energy-saving features make it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice.

Remember to consider the specific requirements of your horse barn when choosing lights, such as the height of the ceilings, the desired brightness, and the overall layout of the space.

arena
Well-lit indoor arena

Top LED High Bay Lights For Indoor Riding Arenas

Indoor riding arenas require bright and even illumination to ensure the safety of both horses and riders while creating a comfortable environment. Here are some top lights suitable for indoor riding arenas:

  1. Hyperlite LED High Bay Light: With its powerful illumination and energy efficiency, the Hyperlite LED High Bay Light is an excellent choice for indoor riding arenas. The fixture’s wide range of light angles ensures an even light distribution across the space.
  2. Lightdot 250W LED High Bay Light 35000lm: The Lightdot LED High Bay Light offers an impressive 35,000 lumens of brightness, ensuring adequate illumination for large indoor riding arenas. Its energy-efficient design and adjustable-angle feature make it a versatile and eco-friendly option for equestrian facilities.
  3. Linear LED High Bay Light: The sleek and modern design of the Linear LED High Bay Light makes it a versatile option for indoor riding arenas. Its powerful LED lights provide bright and consistent illumination, while the hook mount ensures easy installation.
  4. Bulbeats LED High Bay Light: The Bulbeats LED High Bay Light offers warmer colors, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for both horses and riders. Its energy-saving features make it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for indoor riding arenas.

When selecting light options for indoor riding arenas, prioritize fixtures that provide powerful and even illumination, energy efficiency, and easy installation. The Hyperlite LED High Bay Light, Lightdot 250W LED High Bay Light 35000lm, Linear LED High Bay Light, and Bulbeats LED High Bay Light all offer these essential qualities, making them suitable choices for equestrian facilities.

Conclusion

When it comes to selecting the best bay lights for your large indoor space, it’s essential to consider factors such as energy efficiency, brightness, and ease of installation. The top choices mentioned in this guide, such as the Sunco Lighting UFO, Hyperlite LED High Bay Light, Linear LED High Bay Light, Grandlumen LED High Bay Light, and Bulbeats LED High Bay Light, are all excellent options that cater to various needs and preferences.

By assessing your specific requirements and keeping the features of these fixtures in mind, you can make an informed decision and choose the best bay lights that will provide optimal illumination for your space. Ultimately, the right light solution can transform any large indoor area into a well-lit, inviting, and energy-efficient environment.

Miles Henry

About the Author: Miles Henry

Miles Henry is a lifelong horseman with over 25 years of experience owning and training Thoroughbred racehorses. He shares expert insights from his personal experiences growing up with horses, including Quarter Horses and Appaloosas, and currently owns seven Thoroughbreds in training.

Learn more about Miles Henry