LED Post Top Lights

What is a Post Top Lighting Application?

Post top lighting is a term to describe the outdoor lighting that is commonly mounted on poles and located in roadways, pathways, parking lots, and commercial and educational campuses.  Decorative post top fixtures are generally used to provide illumination to areas for pedestrian and vehicle use and safety, with the most frequent attribute being that the light fixtures are mounted vertically to poles ranging from 7-20 feet high.  It is not uncommon to see multiple fixtures mounted on a single pole, with the specific mounting method varying significantly.

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Below are a few image examples of decorative post top lights:

Common Issues

What are some common issues with conventional decorative post top lights?

All HID lamps have some inherent characteristics that can lead to issues for those managing the exterior lighting applications.

Energy Costs

Common (HID) lamp wattages used for decorative area light fixtures range from 100 watts to 250 watts.  The higher the wattage the higher the light output.  The function of the area being illuminated, combined with the quantity, spacing, and mounting height of the poles and fixtures plays a role in the existing wattages that are utilized.  For a standard street or campus, multiple 100w or 250w HID fixtures (very common post top lamp wattages) can cost between $6,300 and $15,700 to operate per year in electricity costs alone.

Maintenance Costs

Like most outdoor lighting applications, maintenance costs are often a big concern for HID decorative post top fixtures.  In additional to the potential lamp lifetime concerns, post top lights, being commonly mounted on poles in excess of 10 feet, often require the use of a bucket truck or lift to change out a lamp or a ballast.  Many municipalities, campuses, and facility management companies do not own a bucket truck or lift and as a result have to hire an outside contractor to maintain these fixtures. These are expenses that can really add up over the course of a few years.  It can easily cost up to $1,120 in labor and material to maintain a single post top light fixture over the course of three years.

Lighting Performance

Depending on the type of HID lamp your facility utilizes, the performance characteristics of your decorative post top fixture can vary significantly. For example, if you are using metal halide lamps you may see light that is whiter, but these types of lamps tend to have accelerated lumen degradation, meaning the light output of the lamps decrease quickly after initial install, and as a result the overall lifetime of the lamp decreases (we have all seen those decorative street light fixtures that have &#;pink&#; lamps that are barely providing any lighting on the ground).  If you are using high pressure sodium you may see longer &#;useful&#; life as these lamps see less lumen degradation than metal halide, but their fuel structure produces a very &#;orange&#; light with a very low color rendering index.  So basically you trade a longer life for a poorer quality light, in regards to visual perspective.

Continue reading the blog post below for LED Post Top Lighting Benefits...

Benefits of LED

What are the Benefits of Outdoor LED Post Top Lights?

Outdoor LED lighting, such as LED post top fixtures, provide some excellent benefits for walkways or pathways requiring illumination because of how they GENERATE light and how they DISTRIBUTE light. Light emitting diodes generate light via a semi-conductor, as opposed to the consumption of a &#;fuel source&#; like in HID lamps.  In regards to &#;distributing&#; light, LED fixtures commonly utilize &#;multi-point&#; sources, meaning the fixtures have multiple diodes with individual optics.  When you compare this to the way most HID fixtures distribute light (with a single bulb and reflectors within the fixture), the result is light that is more EVENLY &#;distributed&#; across a given area.

The three most common benefits of LED post top lights:

Energy Savings

Common wattages for LED post top lights can range from 25 watts to 106 watts, often resulting in a 35%-80% reduction in energy consumption.  The reason for this can be attributed to the GENERATION comments above, and can result in savings of up $800 per fixture per year in electricity costs

Maintenance Cost Reduction

Again, due to the way LEDs generate light, the way they progress through their functional life is much different.  Instead of ceasing to function properly once a fuel source is significantly reduced, LED generated light output degrades VERY SLOWLY over time.  As a result the functional life (often in excess of 100,000 hours) of an LED product can be significantly longer than that of a HID lamp, which in turn drastically reduces the costs for maintaining post top fixtures over a longer period of time.

Lighting Performance

Moving on to the way LED fixtures DISTRIBUTE light, as a result of the multi-point design, LED post top lighting applications often provide a very EVENLY distributed light pattern.  What this means is that light levels across a given surface will vary less as the distance from the pole or fixture changes.  This is as compared to HID fixtures, which often product a &#;bright spot&#; directly underneath the fixture with light levels decreasing drastically as the distance from the pole increases.  The result, in regards to LED vs HID, is a more even foot candle distribution from the LED conversion.  In addition to the even distribution of light, LEDs are available in a range of color temperatures, and as a result provide a range of options to increase the visual perception of &#;brightness."

What are the next steps to improve my decorative post top light application?

The first step is to speak with an LED lighting solutions provider that is manufacturer neutral. Why this approach as opposed to the company you may have used for the past several years?  Unless that company has a focus on providing LED solutions, it is unlikely that they will have the performance-focused mentality that is required to obtain the desired results of an exterior LED lighting project for your municipal, campus, industrial, and commercial post top applications.

A crucial step in any LED project is understanding that LED lighting is NOT a commodity.

Prior decades consisted of building facility managers and building owners evaluating product options purely on cost, assuming that all of the options in consideration were equal in quality.  This is not case with exterior LED lighting.

A solution-focused supplier should ask you about your project objectives.  

Do you have...

• Budget constraints?
• Return on investment criteria?
• Energy reduction targets?
• Lighting performance requirements?  

The appropriate partner will want to get an understanding of your desired outcome, not just what specific products they can sell you.  Not all LED products are created equal.  There are different levels of value from different manufacturers for different applications, and by working with a company that has the product expertise to recommend a solution that meets your project priorities, you will ultimately achieve the best results. We'd love to know more about your upcoming lighting project!

Page Content

• What Are Solar Post Lights?
• Types of Solar Post Lights
• How to Choose the Right Solar Post Lights
• Solar Post Light Installation Tips
• Designing Your Outdoor Space with Solar Lights

Transforming your outdoor space with the right lighting can elevate both its appearance and utility, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Solar post lights stand out as a top choice for homeowners and garden enthusiasts who wish to illuminate their gardens, pathways, and decks in a sustainable and budget-friendly way. 

These lights not only add charm to your outdoor areas but also contribute to energy efficiency by harnessing the power of the sun. In this ultimate guide, we&#;ll explore the various types of solar post lights available, including solar post cap lights, solar deck post lights, and solar fence post lights, to help you make the best choice for your outdoor lighting needs.

What Are Solar Post Lights?

Solar post lights are outdoor lighting fixtures powered by solar energy. They consist of a solar panel, a rechargeable battery, and an LED light. During the day, the solar panel collects sunlight and converts it into electricity, which is stored in the battery. At night, the stored energy powers the LED light, providing illumination without the need for electrical wiring.

Benefits of Solar Post Lights

Eco-Friendly: Solar post lights reduce reliance on fossil fuels, helping to lower your carbon footprint.

Cost-Effective: Once installed, they incur no electricity costs, as they are powered by the sun.

Easy Installation: No need for electrical wiring means you can install them anywhere with adequate sunlight.

Low Maintenance: With fewer components than traditional lighting, solar post lights require minimal upkeep.

Types of Solar Post Lights

Solar post lights come in various types, each designed for specific applications and aesthetic preferences. The main types include solar post cap lights, solar deck post lights, and solar fence post lights.

1. Solar Post Cap Lights

Solar post cap lights are designed to fit on top of fence posts, deck posts, or other outdoor structures. They provide a subtle, ambient glow that enhances the appearance of your outdoor space.

Installation: Simply attach the cap to the top of the post. Ensure it receives sufficient sunlight for optimal performance.

Design Options: Available in various styles and finishes to match your outdoor decor.

Recommended Solar Post Cap Lights

The Sunwind Solar Post Cap Lights are praised for their easy installation and energy-efficient solar-powered design. Users value the warm amber light and durable weatherproof construction, although some note that the brightness and battery life could be improved.

Key Features of Sunwind Solar Post Cap Lights:

Solar Powered: Charges via sunlight, no wiring required

Weatherproof Design: IP44 rating for outdoor durability

Versatile Fit: Compatible with 4x4 and 5x5 wooden posts

Automatic Operation: Turns on at dusk and off at dawn

Warm Lighting: Amber LED light with internal reflector

2. Solar Deck Post Lights

Solar deck post lights are ideal for illuminating decks and patios. They can be mounted on the sides of posts or directly onto the deck surface.

Lighting Options: Choose between accent lighting for a soft glow or brighter options for more visibility.

Durability: Look for models with weather-resistant materials to withstand outdoor conditions.

Recommended Solar Deck Post Light

The Classy Caps Muskoka Solar Dock, Deck & Post Cap Light features 32 high-performance LEDs with warm or bright white light options. Fits 4"x4" and 3.5"x3.5" posts or mounts to decks, docks, and pathways. Heavy-duty cast aluminum, matte black finish. Adds elegance and security to any outdoor space. Easy DIY installation.

Key Features of Muskoka Solar Deck Post Light:

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Versatile Mounting Options: Fits 4"x4" & 3.5"x3.5" posts or mounts on docks, decks, pathways, and driveways.

Bright & Adjustable Lighting: 32 high-performance LEDs with warm or bright white light modes.

Durable Construction: Heavy-duty cast aluminum with a matte black powder coat finish.

Convenient & Long-Lasting: Automatically lights up nightly with an ON/OFF button and includes a long-life 3.2V rechargeable battery.

3. Solar Fence Post Lights

These lights are perfect for adding security and style to your fence line. They can be mounted on top or along the sides of fence posts.

Placement: Ensure even spacing to create a uniform lighting effect.

Energy Efficiency: Opt for lights with advanced circuitry and high-capacity batteries for reliable performance.

Recommended Solar Fence Post Light

The LOFTEK Solar Fence Wall Lights feature a decorative hollowed-out flower pattern, providing 10-12 hours of illumination. With an IP54 waterproof rating, they are built to withstand the elements and are designed for easy installation, making them an elegant and durable choice for enhancing your outdoor space.

Key Features of LOFTEK Solar Fence Wall Lights:

Automatic Operation: The light automatically turns on at dusk and off at dawn or in bright conditions.

Cost-Effective & Easy to Use: No electricity is needed, and no energy is wasted. Simply install the solar deck post light in a sunny spot using a screw.

Weather-Resistant & Waterproof: The solar fence light features a durable ABS shell and a high-quality poly-silicon solar panel with an IP54 rating.

How to Choose the Right Solar Post Lights

When choosing solar post lights, a variety of factors can greatly influence their effectiveness and durability. Let's delve into the specifics.

Brightness: Measured in lumens, this determines how much light the fixture emits. Choose according to your lighting needs.

Battery Capacity: Higher capacity batteries store more energy, allowing lights to stay on longer.

Design and Material: Match the style of the lights with your outdoor decor. Materials like aluminum and stainless steel offer durability.

Weather Resistance: Ensure the lights are rated for outdoor use and can withstand rain, snow, and UV exposure.

Solar Post Light Installation Tips

Installing solar post lights is straightforward, but following these tips can enhance their performance:

Placement: Position lights where they will receive maximum sunlight during the day. Avoid shaded areas.

Spacing: For optimal lighting, space lights appropriately to avoid overlapping light circles.

Mounting: Securely attach lights to prevent them from being dislodged by wind or other elements.

Designing Your Outdoor Space with Solar Lights

Incorporating solar lights into your outdoor design can transform your garden, patio, or walkway into a beautifully illuminated space that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Beyond solar post lights, there are various other types of solar lights you can use to enhance your outdoor areas. Let&#;s explore some additional options that can bring your outdoor space to life.

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2.  Best Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights >>

Step-by-Step Guide to Designing Your Outdoor Space with Solar Lights

1. Assess Your Outdoor Space

Begin by evaluating your outdoor space to determine where lighting is needed. Consider areas that require illumination for safety, such as pathways and entryways, as well as spots where you want to create ambiance, like garden features or seating areas.

2. Plan the Lighting Layout

Create a layout plan that outlines where each type of solar light will be placed. Consider the following:

Pathways: Use Solar Pathway Light to line walkways and driveways. These lights are designed to provide soft illumination, guiding guests safely through your garden or yard.

Accent Lighting: Solar spotlight is perfect for highlighting garden features, trees, or architectural details. Position these spotlights to create focal points and add depth to your outdoor space.

Security and Entry Points: Install outdoor wall lights with motion sensor near entryways and around the perimeter of your home. These lights provide bright illumination when motion is detected, enhancing security and visibility.

3. Select the Right Solar Lights 

Choose solar lights that suit your design and functional needs:

Linkind Solar Pathway Light SP3: Ideal for illuminating pathways and driveways. These lights are easy to install and provide consistent lighting throughout the night.

Linkind Smart Solar Spotlight SL5: Use these for accent lighting. They offer adjustable angles and brightness settings, allowing you to highlight specific areas effectively.

Linkind Outdoor Wall Lights with Motion Sensor: Perfect for security lighting. These lights automatically turn on when motion is detected, providing safety and convenience.

4. Enhance Aesthetic Appeal

Color and Style: Choose lights that complement the style and color scheme of your outdoor space. Many solar lights come in various finishes and designs to match your decor.

Create Layers: Use a combination of pathway, spotlight, and wall lights to create layers of lighting that add depth and interest to your outdoor area.

By carefully planning and selecting the right solar lights, you can create a beautifully lit outdoor space that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. 

Conclusion