4 Advice to Choose a LED Post Top Pole Light

Author: Evelyn y

Sep. 09, 2024

Guide to Buying Light Poles & LED Lights

The standard rule of thumb is 3ft down x 2ft wide + add 1 foot down and 1 foot wide for every 5 feet above 18 feet up. Rebar and commercial grade concrete required. Always check local codes and concrete recommendations.

MDL supply professional and honest service.

A: The standard rule of thumb is 3ft down x 2ft wide + add 1 foot down and 1 foot wide for every 5 feet above 18 feet up. Rebar and commercial grade concrete required. Always check local codes and concrete recommendations.

What size light poles do i need?

A:

This depends on the use. The most common light poles are 20ft to 25 ft. You can use a 15ft pole for a small area, driveways and home sport courts. The ISTA and other Tennis bodies specify the light at 22.8ft, which is a 20ft pole plus an adapter on top. This is probably the most common height for poles and 2 of the 20K lumen fixtures do well here. 25ft poles are used for larger lots to cover more space and typically have brighter lights with more lumens on them. Use 2-4 of the 40K lumen fixtures. Baseball and other ball field lighting usually starts at 40ft and goes up and you'll need LED Stadium lights with narrower beam angles at these heights.





What are the Types of Materials for Light Poles?


Outdoor light poles are structures that support one or more lights, usually for outdoor illumination. They can be made of different materials, such as wood, fiberglass, aluminum, or steel. The best pole for your lighting needs will depend on its purpose, location, durability, and cost. Here are some of the main types of outdoor light poles and their advantages and disadvantages:


&#;  Wood: Wood is the cheapest option but also the least attractive. It is solid and heavy, which means it requires more labor and equipment to install. It also requires external wiring, which must be weatherproofed according to the electrical code. Wood is susceptible to rotting, cracking, warping, and insect damage, which can affect its stability and safety.


&#;  Fiberglass: Fiberglass is versatile and lightweight. It can be molded into various shapes and colors to suit different preferences and applications. It is more water-resistant than wood or steel, but not as strong or durable. It can also be more expensive than other options.


&#;  Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant. It has a hollow structure that allows internal wiring, which is more aesthetically pleasing and protective. It can also be painted or coated with different finishes to enhance its appearance and resistance to corrosion. However, aluminum is usually more expensive than steel and can be less stable in windy conditions.


&#;  Steel: Steel is the most popular choice for outdoor light poles. It is strong, sturdy, and economical. It also has a hollow structure that allows internal wiring. It can withstand high winds and harsh weather without bending or breaking. However, steel is prone to rusting if not properly coated or maintained. Metal coatings are available that will improve the resistance of steel and aluminum poles to corrosion.


When choosing an outdoor light pole, you should also consider other factors, such as the height, size, shape, and number of fixtures that you need for your project. You should also check the local codes and regulations on pole installation and lighting levels to ensure compliance. Moreover, you should add surge protectors at the pole and breaker to prevent damage from power surges or lightning strikes. By selecting the right outdoor light pole for your project, you can achieve a functional and attractive outdoor lighting solution that meets your needs and expectations.



How to Secure Light Poles to the Ground?

Read about flush mounted vs direct burial here

When it comes to installing poles for lighting, the most common methods are flush mounting for metal poles and direct burial for wooden poles. Flush mounting requires excavating a hole, positioning anchor bolts and a base plate, and then pouring concrete to secure the structure. The bottom of the pole has pre-drilled holes to align with the anchor bolts. Once placed over the bolts, the pole is fastened with nuts and washers, making this method ideal for metal poles and in areas with hard or rocky soil. Direct burial, on the other hand, involves embedding a portion of the pole (typically over 5 feet) directly into the ground and reinforcing it with concrete.


For a flush mount, one should consider whether to mount it directly on the ground or on a concrete cylindrical form, commonly referred to as a Sonotube, named after a well-known manufacturer. The flat surface mount is standard; however, if there is a risk of impact from vehicles, as with parking lot lights, or potential issues with water and snow accumulation, then using a Sonotube is preferable for additional protection and stability. Refer to this visual aid for a clearer understanding of the differences between these methods. In this image you can see an example of both of these flush mounts;




How to Attach Lights to Light Poles

There are different ways to attach lights to light poles, depending on the type and size of the pole and the light. Here are some common methods:


Light Mounts &#;  Arm Mount: This method involves attaching the light directly to the side of the light poles with one or two bolts. The light has a metal arm that extends from the back of the fixture and fits into a hole or bracket on the pole. This method is suitable for round or square poles and single or multiple lights.   &#;  Slip Fit Mount: This method involves sliding the light over a round adapter that is attached to the top of the pole. The adapter has a diameter of 2.38 inches and is called a tenon. The light has a hole in the back that matches the size of the tenon. This method is suitable for round or square poles and single or multiple lights. If you want to attach more than one light to a pole, you will need a bullhorn, which is a metal piece that splits the tenon into two or more branches. 


  &#;  Lag Bolt: This method involves drilling a hole into the side of a wood pole and inserting a lag bolt, which is a large screw with a hexagonal head. The light has a metal plate with a hole that matches the size of the lag bolt. The plate is secured to the pole with a washer and a nut. This method is suitable for wood poles and single or multiple lights. If you want to attach more than one light to a pole, you will need a cross beam, which is a wood piece that spans across the pole and provides more surface area for the lights. 


 




















more on this article on pole light mountingstreet light mounting here.

These are some of the ways to attach lights to light poles. Readand on






Why LED Lights with Your Light Poles? 


Outdoor lighting is an important aspect of any business, as it can affect the safety, security, and appearance of your premises. Traditional bulbs, such as halogen and incandescent, can produce a yellowish tint that distorts the natural colors of your landscape and creates a dull and uninviting atmosphere. High-pressure sodium (HPS) bulbs can also create uneven and patchy lighting that leaves dark spots or shadows in your area. These types of lighting can also consume more energy and require more frequent maintenance than modern alternatives.


LED lights are a better option for light poles as they provide a clean, bright, and uniform light that enhances the visibility and attractiveness of your space. LED lights have several advantages over traditional bulbs, such as:


LED pole light

&#; LED lights measure their brightness in lumens (lm), not watts. This means they can produce more light with less energy consumption. For example, a 100-watt incandescent bulb can produce about 1,600 lumens, while a 15-watt LED bulb can produce the same amount of lumens. Changing from 400-watt metal halides to a 150 watt outdoorsaves 250 watts on the bulb, plus an additional 50 watts on the ballast. The result is a savings of 300 watts per light pole, the equivalent of a 70% energy savings.


&#;  LED lights have a color temperature rating that determines the hue of the light. The higher the color temperature, the cooler and whiter the light. The lower the color temperature, the warmer and yellower the light. LED lights can range from 2,700K to 6,500K, while traditional bulbs are usually around 2,700K to 3,000K. LED lights with higher color temperatures can create a more natural and vibrant look for your landscape and signage.


&#;  LED lights have a beam angle that determines how wide the light spreads. The wider the beam angle, the more area the light covers. The narrower the beam angle, the more focused the light is. LED lights can have beam angles from 10 degrees to 120 degrees, while traditional bulbs usually have beam angles of 360 degrees. LED lights with wider beam angles can provide more even and consistent lighting for your area without creating dark spots or glare.


&#;  LED lights have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. They can last up to 100,000 hours or more, while traditional bulbs usually last up to 2,000 hours or less. This means you can save on replacement and maintenance costs and reduce waste and environmental impact.


By choosing LED lights for your outdoor lighting project, you can achieve a quality light coverage that meets your needs and expectations. You can also improve the safety and security of your customers and employees, as well as the appearance and professionalism of your business.





Lighting Controls Conserve Energy

There are five types of lighting controls that will provide more energy savings:

  • Dusk to dawn sensor (known as a photocell) turn the lights on at sundown and off at sunrise. The photocell is a popular choice for outdoor lighting. Having lights that automatically come on at dusk and turn off at sunrise reduces electrical costs.  Bypass caps are used in place of the photocell if you want to use other controls
  • Motion sensors turn the lights on only when motion is detected.  Many are Tri-level, Full, low, off.  This reduce light output until people are in the area
  • Smart timers, connected to Alexa or Siri or classic mechanic timer clocks turn lights off and on depending on the season or schedule.  

Changing to LED lighting in Outside pole lights provides a 40% to 60% reduction in energy bills for each pole light, adding motion sensors can increase that to 80-90%. This is equal to a $300.00-$500 savings in the cost of electricity per light pole per year.



Types of Light Distribution for Pole Lights

The optimal light distribution for your light fixtures mounted to the light poloes hinges on the specific characteristics of the area it's intended to illuminate. There are six primary types of light distribution patterns to consider:


  • Type I Distribution is designed for pathways, narrow roadways, and sidewalks where the light pattern is elongated to cover a narrow strip of land.
  • Type II Distribution is best suited for broader walkways, longer stretches such as jogging paths, and smaller side streets, providing a slightly wider illumination than Type I.
  • Type III Distribution is ideal for illuminating general parking areas and any expansive open space where a broader coverage is required.
  • Type IV Distribution casts light in a forward-throwing semi-circular pattern, which is perfect when mounted on the side of buildings to light up the adjacent ground.
  • Type V Distribution offers a circular pattern with uniform intensity, which is excellent for large commercial parking areas, ensuring even coverage throughout.
  • Type VI Distribution delivers a square-shaped light pattern, maintaining consistent intensity from all angles. This distribution is especially effective in parks, extensive open spaces, and sizeable parking areas.



Selecting the Appropriate Lumens for Your Pole Lights


When it comes to outfitting your parking lot or other area with LED lights, there's a spectrum of lumens available. It's often wise to opt for lighting that's slightly brighter than what you might initially consider. As a rule of thumb, aim for approximately 20,000 lumens for every 1,000 square feet you plan to illuminate.


Distributing 2 to 4 fixtures across each 1,000 square feet will provide more comprehensive coverage. If the poles are between 15 to 20 feet tall, you can increase the lumens up to 40,000, as the light will disperse more widely at these heights. For this range, a Type 3 Lens is usually the most effective.


Here&#;s a quick guide to the recommended wattage based on pole height:

  • For poles 10-13 feet high, a 100 watt LED light for parking or streets is recommended.
  • For poles 14-18 feet high, a 150 watt LED light will be suitable.
  • For poles 17-24 feet high, opt for a 300 watt LED light.
  • Poles ranging from 24-30 feet high should be equipped with a 500 watt LED light.
narrower beam angle

For installations above 30 feet, a 500-watt output is still recommended, but with ato focus the light more precisely.


How to Choose the Right Outdoor Post Light for Me

Outdoor lighting not only enhances the beauty of your home, but also provides safety and security for your family and guests. Post lights are great for extending your outdoor lighting beyond your porch and illuminating driveways, walkways, and landscaping. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right type of post light, lamp post, or pier base mount for your outdoor space. In this buying guide, we will explore the several types of outdoor lighting and recommend some of our favorite designs to help you make an informed decision. 


Oak Creek Post Top Light and Black Lamp Post with Cross Arm


For more information, please visit LED Post Top Pole Light.

Oak Creek Post Top Light and Black Round Pier Base Mount




Features to Look for in Post Lights 


Post lights are mounted on top of posts or pier base mounts and are commonly used for illuminating walkways, driveways, and outdoor living areas. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, from traditional lanterns to modern and sleek designs. When selecting a post light, there are a few essential factors to consider: 



Wet Rating


Do you need wet or damp rated lights and what&#;s the difference? Most outdoor light fixtures are rated for either wet or damp location use. Wet rated post lights are designed to withstand direct exposure to rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation without malfunctioning or causing safety hazards. Damp-rated fixtures are for use in covered areas not directly exposed to rain and moisture. Because post top lights are often not under any type of coverage, a wet rating is typically necessary.  


Canterbury II LED Post Top Light and Pier Base Mount in Bronze



Weather-Resistant Finish


A weather-resistant finish is also important to look for when shopping for post lights. Post lights with a weather-resistant finish can withstand exposure to sunlight, wind, and other elements that could cause discoloration or damage to the fixture. 


Canterbury II LED Post Top Light and Black Lamp Post with Cross Arm and Outlet



Ease of Installation


Post lights should be easy to install, especially if you&#;re undertaking a DIY project. A straightforward installation process ensures that the post light can be installed correctly and efficiently, without the need for professional installation. 



Extra Features


Depending on your own preference, you may consider looking for a post light with a timer or sensor. A timer allows you to set the post light to turn on and off at specific times, while a sensor detects when it's dark outside and turns the light on automatically. Sensors can also be built into lamp posts and used with traditional post top lights.  

Mayfield Post Light and Black Round Pier Base Mount


One of our favorite post light designs is the Design House Mayfield Post Light. It features a classic and elegant style with a black finish and clear glass panels, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space. 



Important Features of Lamp Posts 


So, you&#;ve decided on your post light, but where will you put it? Post top lights can be mounted on either lamp posts or pier base mounts. Lamp posts can stand on their own while pier bases are mounted on top of columns or some other surface. When shopping for a lamp post, take the following into consideration: 



Height


The height of the lamp post will determine the coverage of the light. Consider the height of your home and other structures in your yard to determine the appropriate height. 



Style


Lamp posts come in a range of styles, from traditional to modern. Choose a style that complements your home's architecture and your personal taste. 


Oak Creek Post Top Light and Black Lamp Post with Cross Arm


Material


Lamp posts can be made from various materials, including aluminum, steel, and cast iron. Consider the durability and maintenance requirements of each material. 



Mounting


Decide whether you want a direct burial or surface-mounted lamp post. Direct burial lamp posts are buried directly in the ground, while surface-mounted posts are secured to a base or platform. Direct burial lamp posts tend to stand up straighter and are less affected by factors such as wind. 



Extra Features


If having another source of power in your yard is important to you, consider a lamp post with a built-in electrical outlet. Since you&#;re running power to the post anyway, adding a convenience outlet is an easy step to take. Some lamp posts come with a photo eye as well. This allows the light to take on a dusk to dawn feature, turning on at night and off during the daytime.  

Oak Creek Post Top Light and Black Lamp Post with Photo Eye for Dusk to Dawn Capability


If you're looking for a lamp post with extra features, consider the Design House Lamp Post with Photo Eye Sensor. This lamp post has a built-in dusk to dawn sensor that turns lights on at night and off during the daytime for convenience and safety. It also features a durable black finish and a traditional design that can complement any outdoor decor. 



What to Look for in Pier Base Mounts 


Pier base mounts are used to attach post lights to a flat surface, such as a deck or patio. Pier bases are not for stabilizing lamp posts; they are for lights only. They are designed to provide a sturdy and secure foundation for the post light, ensuring it remains upright and stable.

Black Round Pier Base Mount


Pier base mounts typically consist of a metal plate that is anchored to the surface with screws or bolts, and a post support that fits over the plate and is secured in place with additional hardware. The post light is then attached to the support, typically with screws or bolts as well. Pier base mounts can be a great option for homeowners who do not have a traditional post or need to attach a post light to a non-standard surface. They are also useful for adding extra lighting to an outdoor living area, such as a patio or deck, without the need for a traditional lamp post. Pier base mounts come in a variety of sizes and styles to accommodate different post light designs and come in a variety of finishes to match the décor of your outdoor living space. 

Canterbury II LED Post Top Light and Pier Base Mount in Black


The Design House Pier Base Mount in black features a sleek and minimalist design with a black finish that goes with a variety of outdoor décor styles. This pier base mount is also weather-resistant, ensuring that it can withstand the elements and last for years to come. 


Selecting the right type of outdoor lighting can make a significant difference in the safety, security, and overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. Whether you choose a post light, lamp post, or pier base mount, make sure to consider the size and style of your outdoor area, as well as any extra features you may need. The Design House Mayfield Post Light, Design House Lamp Post with Electrical Outlet, and Design House Pier Base Mount are all great options that combine style, functionality, and affordability. Happy shopping! 

For more windowsill lightinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

57

0

Comments

Please Join Us to post.

0/2000

All Comments ( 0 )

Guest Posts

If you are interested in sending in a Guest Blogger Submission,welcome to write for us!

Your Name: (required)

Your Email: (required)

Subject:

Your Message: (required)