Aside from the arena itself, consider areas around the arena. These include pathways leading from the stalls to the staging areas. These areas won't have the same lighting requirements as the arena itself, but it is essential to light them. Areas such as these don't need lighting fixtures as bright as the arena area. Also, pole heights will not have to be as high.
How Many Lumens Do You Need to Light a Riding Arena?
Lumens measure brightness, not to be confused with watts, which measure energy use. You might need 7,000-8,000 lumens to light your kitchen as a reference. In comparison, you would need about 20,000 lumens to light an area of 100 square meters, a possible area for an equestrian arena. As a general rule, multiply the number of foot candles you need by the area. Typically, a sports venue, similar to an arena, requires 20-30 foot candles. So multiply the lit area (100 square meters) by the foot candles needed, 20, and you get 20,000 lumens.
How Tall Should Arena Lights Be?
Pole height will depend on the size of the area you are lighting. Parking lots typically have pole heights ranging from 12-20 feet, highways 20-30 feet, and sports stadiums up to 60 feet or higher. Horse arena lighting pole heights will be in the 20-30 foot range depending on the size of the area being lighted.
What Kind of Lights Should You Use in a Horse Barn?
Lighting requirements for equestrian barn lighting are different than those of an arena. The barn is indoors and does not require very bright lights. Also, you might not need light poles since the lighting fixtures can attach to the ceiling structure or walls. Some indoor lighting choices include LED canopy lights, LED high bays and low bays, and LED troffers and panels.
Also, consider other areas in the barn, such as stalls that may need stall lights or outside walkways and service areas. All of these may warrant different lights.
Are LED Lights Safe in a Barn?
Of course, they are safe outside of a barn as well. LED lights do not get hot like incandescent bulbs. Nevertheless, handle them with care. And not only are they safe, but they are also far more energy-efficient, delivering more light and expending less energy.
