LED Lighting Education and Information

Key Tips for Selecting the Best Sports Lighting

Written by Stouch Lighting Staff | 05/09/2023

Key Tips for Selecting the Best Sports Field Lights

 

Choosing the best sports field lights can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the field. With so many options available on the market, it's easy to get overwhelmed and confused. At the heart of any sports field are the lights that illuminate the playing field. Properly lit fields are essential for player safety, game play, and overall enjoyment. So, when it comes to selecting sports field lights, there are a few key factors that you need to consider.

 

 

Understand the difference between Sports Field Lighting and Flood Lighting

While both LED sports lighting and LED flood lighting have their unique benefits, they are designed for different applications. LED sports lighting is designed specifically for sports facilities and provides excellent visibility, reducing glare and shadows, while LED flood lighting is a versatile lighting solution that can be used for various applications, such as outdoor lighting, security lighting, and landscape lighting.

If you are looking to illuminate a sports facility, LED sports lighting is the best option, as it provides optimal lighting conditions for players and audiences, enhancing the game's quality. On the other hand, if you are looking to illuminate large outdoor areas, LED flood lighting is the best option, as it provides excellent visibility and safety, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.

 

Key Tips for Picking Lighting for your Sports Field

Ensuring Lights meet Lighting Level Requirements

The lighting levels required for sports fields vary depending on the type of sport being played. For example, many youth and high school level baseball fields should obtain an average of 50 foot-candles in the infield and 30 foot-candles in the outfield, while youth and high school football fields should average between 30 and 50 foot-candles depending on the level of play. It's important to ensure that the lights you choose meet the lighting requirements for both the level and type of sport played on the field.

 

Lighting Distribution must be Optimal

The distribution of light is another important factor to consider when selecting sports field lights. The Light Levels (Foot-Candles) should be evenly distributed across the playing surface to minimize shadows and provide optimal visibility for players. The Pole Heights, as well as the Light Fixtures beam patterns and mounting angles, play a very important role in the distribution of foot-candles throughout the playing field.

 

 

Choosing the most Energy Efficient & Cost Effective Option

Energy efficiency is an important consideration when selecting sports field lights. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option, consuming up to 75% less energy than metal halide lights. While LED lights may have a higher upfront cost, they have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.

 

Requiring more Durability and less Maintenance

Sports field lights are exposed to harsh weather conditions, so durability is a crucial factor to consider. Metal halide lights may require more frequent maintenance, while LED lights have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance. It's important to choose lights that are designed for outdoor use and can withstand exposure to moisture, wind, and other elements.

 

Final Thoughts

In summary, when selecting the best sports field lights, consider the type of lights, lighting levels, light distribution, energy efficiency, durability, and maintenance requirements. All in all, the best sports field lights for your field will depend on your specific needs and budget.

 

 

Below are the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by Owners and maintenance crew members of sports fields.

 

1. How many lights do I need for my sports field?

The number of lights needed for a sports field will depend on the size of the field and the specific light level requirements. A lighting professional such as Stouch Lighting can help determine the optimal number of lights for your sports field.

 

2. Can I install sports field lights myself?

Sports field lighting installations should always be done by a licensed and experienced professional to ensure safety and optimal performance. If you have your own professionals on staff, Great! If not, Stouch Lighting can provide assistance in the implementation of your sports lighting system.

 

3. Can I use different types of lights on the same sports field?

It is not recommended to use different types of lights on the same sports field, as this can result in variations in light levels and uniformity, which can become distracting to the players and fans.

 

4. How often do sports field lights need to be replaced?

The lifespan of sports field lights will depend on the specific type of light and usage. LED lights generally have the longest lifespan, while metal halide lights may need to be replaced more frequently.

 

 

If you're looking for high-quality sports field lights, consider working with a reputable source such as Stouch Lighting that specializes in outdoor sports lighting. We can help you choose the best lights for your field and ensure that they are installed correctly and efficiently.