Commercial outdoor lighting is used in outdoor areas to provide nighttime illumination, as well as draw attention to the business. Lights can be installed on timers to automatically come on at certain times of the day, or they can be activated by motion or sunlight. When installing commercial outdoor lighting near a sign, there are several decisions to make regarding the size and placement of the light.

Choosing Sizes for Commercial Outdoor Lighting

Determine the maximum size of the light that can be used by locating the existing transformer or breaker box. Examine the decals or labels on the transformer to see what the maximum wattage is. The trend of Industrial Pendant Lighting also looks terrific when commercial outdoor lighting is concerned.

Also look at the building’s electrical diagram, if available, to determine what other electrical devices and lights are already hooked up to the system. Write down the wattage that each device uses and add them up. Subtract the total number from the maximum wattage for the system. The resulting wattage number is the upper limit for the size of light that can be used.

If additional lighting or higher wattage bulbs are desired, hire an electrician to evaluate the existing system and upgrade it if necessary.

Decide on a Type of Commercial Outdoor Lighting Effect

Decide whether to illuminate the entire sign, or whether to use accent light to highlight it. If the sign is advertising a business, especially one open at night, choose a high wattage flood light that illuminates the entire sign. If only accent light is needed for the commercial outdoor lighting control system, a lower wattage light is sufficient.

Test the Location of the Commercial Outdoor Lighting

Wait until dusk and go outside to the location of the sign. Use a flashlight or other portable light to determine where to place the lights. Test the light at the front center of the sign, as well as both sides. If there is a tree or pole nearby, consider mounting commercial outdoor lighting onto it to provide illumination from above. If the lights are for security purposes, look for placement locations that are at least 9 ft. off of the ground.

Decide on a commercial outdoor lighting location that faces walkways or roads if the light is motion activated. If the light is light activated, choose a position away from shrubs, trees or walls since these interfere with the sensor.

Commercial outdoor lighting should be carefully designed rather than haphazardly implemented. When done correctly, the lights become part of the décor rather than just illumination.