Proper lighting in parking lots is key to safety, visibility, and the total look of any commercial or public setting. If you run a retail center, office complex or industrial facility in Manassas, VA which elements of parking lot lighting do in fact play a role in what you put in place. This in turn will help you to make better decisions which in the end improve aesthetics and security.
In this blog we will present to you our practical tips for parking lot lighting installation which also include key considerations, technology trends and maintenance strategies. Also we will look at the roles of commercial lighting contractors and the benefits of LED lighting solutions for your property.
Why Parking Lot Lighting Matters
Good quality light which is well applied increases safety for drivers and pedestrians, also it reduces liability and deters vandalism or theft. Also at the dark times of winter your property’s appeal is increased by proper parking area illumination. Also we see that great installation of lights can improve your business image and help to meet local code requirements.
Tip #1: Evaluate Your Lighting Requirements.
Before installation do a full site assessment. Which to note:.
The size and design of the parking area.
Traffic patterns and pedestrian zones
Local lighting ordinances and safety codes
Existing power infrastructure
This assessment is for determining the number of light fixtures you will need and where to put them for best coverage.
Tip #2: Select the Proper Lighting Technology.
In today’s terms LED lighting is the choice for parking lots. They put forth the following benefits:.
- Energy use as low as 30% of that in incandescent bulbs which is to say we are talking about a very large reduction in energy use.
- Longer lifespan (50,000+ hours)
- Better brightness and color rendering
- Minimal maintenance
- LED lights work also with smart controls and which in turn improves performance and saves you more on energy costs.
Tip #3: Work with experienced contractors.
Always use professional commercial lighting contractors. Professionals will see that your install does indeed meet safety standards, performs at high efficiency, and also that it is in compliance with local electrical codes in Manassas, VA.
An expert contractor will handle: A professional contractor will do:.
- Outdoor lighting installation
- Electrical system planning and connections
- Lighting pole installation and fixture mounting
- Coordination with utility services
- Look out for licensed and insured professionals with great local reviews.
Tip #4: Plan your lighting layout carefully.
An efficient lighting design which puts out even and glare free light throughout the entire lot. Also try to:.
- Install wide coverage lighting in the pole mounted fixtures.
- Steer clear of placing lights that are too near to each other.
- Use directed light to reduce pollution.
- Light both entry/exit points and walkways
- This care has been taken to avoid dark areas which in turn maximizes visibility.
Tip #5: Consider options for Existing Lots.
If in present of outdate lighting in your lot which is what we are dealing with here, we see to retrofit lighting services. What we do is we switch out metal halide or HPS to LED which in return improves brightness as well as reduce maintenance and operational costs.
A lighting system upgrade may involve: A lighting retrofit may include:.
- Replacing bulbs with LED kits
- Updating fixtures or ballasts
- Adding control elements (timers, photo cells, motion sensors).
Tip #6: Think on the long term maintenance of that.
Your investment in lighting system. Perform regular inspections and maintenance for best results and safety. Which includes:.
- Checking that all bulbs are functioning and fixtures are in good working order.
- Inspecting wiring and pole integrity
- Cleaning of lenses and housings for best results.
- Partner to a firm that provides continuous electrical lighting services.
Tip #7: Grasp Local Requirements.
In Manassas, VA, it is a must that outdoor lighting conform to what the city codes say regarding brightness, fixture height, and light trespass. A quality contractor will see to it that.
- All installations are code-compliant
- Proper permits are obtained
- Inspection schedules are followed
- Failing to fulfill these is to risk delay of your project and fine.
Final Thoughts
Investment in quality parking lot lighting also improves your property’s image and what it says about your concern for the safety of your customers and employees. From the installation of the lighting poles to full scale electrical lighting maintenance we at [company name] will design a system which in the long term will benefit you beyond what the initial investment is.
In Manassas, VA commercial property owners look to Leaf Power Design for in depth knowledge, custom designed solutions, and top notch service on any issue related to lighting fixture installation.
FAQs
Q: What kind of light works best in a parking lot?
A: LED lights outperform in terms of efficiency, long life, and low maintenance.
Q: What is the proper height for parking lot light poles?
A: Usually between 15 to 30 feet based on coverage requirements and zoning laws.
Q: Can present lights be updated to LED?
A: Yes. We see that retrofit kits which transform old systems to energy efficient LED lighting.
Q: Do I have a permit required for parking lot lighting in Manassas, VA?
A: Yes, local permits and inspections are needed. Your contractor will take care of that.
Q: What is the cost of parking lot lighting installation?
A: Costs of the project will depend on lot size, number of fixtures, pole height and technology used. For accurate pricing we recommend an on site estimate.
