Installing high-quality commercial office lighting is one of the easiest and most practical ways of enhancing any workspace. Similar to the overall design of an office, it can significantly improve the work environment for employees. For this reason, if you are in the market for commercial lighting, you must source the best lighting products, as this will help ensure optimum business productivity and efficiency while keeping your costs low and your employees’ morale high.

Commercial lights are designed to be more robust and brighter than residential lights. However, lighting needs vary across different commercial spaces. Some areas require warm lighting, while others need cool lighting; some need high brightness or voltage, while others operate on lower ratings. Additionally, factors such as ceiling height, IP rating, and beam angle play a crucial role in selecting the appropriate commercial lights.

What is Commercial Lighting?

Commercial lighting refers to lighting used in commercial spaces such as auto dealerships, distribution centers, churches, factories, offices, and warehouses. Unlike residential lighting, commercial lighting is built to withstand more wear and tear and has a longer lifespan.

Types of Commercial Lighting

There are different types of commercial lighting fixtures, each with different levels of efficiency and functionality. From ceiling mounted and wall-mounted, to LED and fluorescent lighting, businesses need to consider where and how they will use the lights to decide which type of commercial lighting is right for them.

Incandescent Lighting

Incandescent lighting was the first type of commercially available lighting, designed by Thomas Edison. Also known as halogen lighting, it involves bulbs filled with gas and a filament in the middle that emits light when electricity passes through it.

Compared to more modern types of lighting, such as LED, halogen bulbs offer a more natural or warmer light, which some claim is healthier due to its lack of blue light. However, incandescent lights are not energy-efficient and have a short lifespan, leading many countries to ban them to reduce their impact on climate change. A more eco-friendly and cost-effective way to achieve warmer lighting is to use LED bulbs with color options.

Fluorescent Lighting

Fluorescent lighting is known for its energy efficiency and long life and is commonly found in offices, schools, and warehouses. These lights consist of tubes filled with gas that illuminate when electricity passes through them.

Fluorescent lights have been widely used since the 1950s and were the first truly energy-efficient lighting method. Available in a range of shapes and sizes, they provide a cost-effective way to light up large commercial spaces.

LED Lighting

LED stands for ‘Light Emitting Diodes.’ Compared to traditional fluorescent lighting, LEDs are significantly more energy-efficient, consuming up to 85% less energy. This efficiency, combined with their advanced features and versatility, makes LEDs a popular choice for commercial lighting. LED fixtures come in endless designs and can be tailored to suit various applications. Here are some widely used LED lighting types:

1. Floodlights: Floodlights are commonly used in commercial areas such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, shopping malls, and museums. They are ideal for accent lighting, highlighting the textures of infrastructures or special elements like stone walls. These lights enhance the aesthetic appeal of building facades.
2. Uplights and Downlights:
   • Uplights: These are used primarily for accent lighting, highlighting architectural features on building facades, swimming pools, and gardens.
   • Downlights: Commonly used for general lighting, downlights include fixtures like flush lights and semi-flush lights. They are versatile and can be found in various commercial settings. For more information, you can explore resources like “What are Downlights and How to Choose One?”
3. Spotlights: Spotlights are versatile and can be found in shopping malls, offices, factories, and more. They provide focused illumination, which is perfect for highlighting specific objects or areas. For those confused about the differences between floodlights, spotlights, and downlights, consider reading “What is the Difference Between Floodlight, Spotlight, and Downlight?”
4. Path Lights: Path lighting is essential for safety and visibility in commercial areas at night. LED bollard lights are a great option for illuminating pathways, driveways, garages, and walkways in hotels, resorts, and other commercial buildings.
5. Tube Lights: LED tube lights are a modern replacement for fluorescent lighting. Their slim design makes them ideal for commercial spaces such as schools, malls, mills, factories, and garages.
6. LED Strip Lights: LED strip lights are increasingly popular in both residential and commercial settings. They are flexible, easy to size and install, and can be used for general or accent lighting in showrooms, restaurants, hotels, and more. Customization options are available to achieve the desired ambiance.
7. LED Neon Flex: LED neon flex is used for bright, eye-catching signage outside shops, cafes, hotels, and malls. They are an excellent alternative to traditional glass neon lights and are effective for branding. For more details, you can explore “Where To Use LED Neon Flex?”
8. Recessed Lights: Also known as pot lights, recessed lights are built-in fixtures that offer clean and sleek lighting. They are commonly found in ceilings of hotels, offices, event halls, malls, and even in stair lighting for commercial purposes. When choosing recessed lighting, consider an IC rating for insulated ceilings.
9. Decorative Lights: Chandeliers, lantern lights, pendant lights, and other designer fixtures used in commercial areas are typically LED-based. These lights enhance the visual appeal of a space and can increase public engagement.
10. Tri-proof Lights: Tri-proof lights are ideal for industrial environments like factories, manufacturing lines, and mills. These fixtures are water, dust, and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for areas with chemicals, toxic elements, or high moisture content. They are also explosion-resistant. For more information, see “What is Tri-Proof Light and How to Choose?”
11. Emergency Lights: In the event of a power outage or emergency, such as a fire alarm, emergency lights provide immediate illumination to help navigate safely and ensure a secure exit from the building. These lights are crucial for safety in commercial buildings. For more on their importance, read “Why Is Emergency Lighting Essential?”

The benefits of commercial lighting

Our commercial lighting brings a host of benefits to your business:

Creating the Perfect Ambiance: The right lighting can set the mood and reflect the unique character of your business. Whether you want a cozy, inviting atmosphere or a sleek, contemporary vibe, commercial lighting plays a crucial role in creating a memorable experience for your customers and clients.

Enhancing Productivity: Happy employees are productive employees! Proper lighting reduces eye strain, prevents fatigue, and boosts overall work performance throughout the day. Investing in the right lighting can contribute to a more comfortable and efficient workspace.

Saving Energy and Money: Opt for energy-efficient lighting solutions with our range of architectural LED lights. Not only do these lights have a longer lifespan, but they also help reduce your environmental impact and lower your energy costs. Going green has never been easier!

Application of Commercial Lights

Commercial-grade lighting is utilized across various sectors to provide illumination, enhance ambiance, and support specific activities. Here are some of the most common applications of commercial lights:

1. Office: In offices, commercial lights are essential for creating a comfortable and productive working environment. Lighting is used in workspaces, conference rooms, and other common areas. The focus is on employee comfort and efficiency. For a comprehensive guide on office lighting, see “Office Lighting: The Definitive Guide.”
2. Hotel & Restaurant: Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right atmosphere in hotels and restaurants. It enhances visibility and ambiance, making the space more inviting. Decorative lighting can elevate the look of a restaurant, serving as a key element of its branding and marketing strategy. For innovative ideas, check out “Top 31 Restaurant Lighting Ideas” and “Hotel Lighting: The Definitive Guide.”
3. Shopping Malls & Retail Stores: In shopping malls and retail stores, commercial lights like spotlights, LED strips, recessed lights, and track lights are used to highlight products and create a pleasant shopping experience. For a detailed guide on retail lighting, refer to “Retail Lighting: Definitive Guide.”
4. Theatre & Museum: Theatres and museums use commercial-grade lighting to showcase performances and exhibits. Angular spotlights are popular for highlighting specific areas, while track lights are often used to illuminate artistic sections.
5. Garage: In garages, whether for professional use or parking, commercial-grade lighting is vital. The lighting fixtures need to withstand water splashes and high-impact risks, making high IP and IK ratings essential. For more information, see “Garage Lighting: The Definitive Guide.”
6. Gym & Yoga Studio: In gyms and yoga studios, appropriate lighting creates a comfortable environment for workouts and relaxation. The lighting needs to be suitable for the activities performed. For guidance on selecting lighting, refer to “LED Gym Lighting: The Definitive Guide” and “How to Choose Lights for Yoga Studio?”
7. Barber Shop, Salon & Spa: In these settings, the correct light color temperature and comfort are crucial. Different areas require different lighting conditions; for instance, hair-cutting areas need cool lighting, while spa sections benefit from warm lighting. The Color Rendering Index (CRI) is also important for tasks like hair coloring. For more on this, see “How To Choose Lighting For A Barber Shop?”
8. Gas Station & Auto-Repair Shops: These areas require durable lighting fixtures that can withstand moisture, high temperatures, dust, dirt, and exposure to chemicals. Tri-proof light fixtures with safety features are often used in these environments.
9. Outdoor Lighting: Commercial lighting is also used outdoors in places like shopping malls, restaurants, halls, and theaters. Popular options include floodlights, LED neon signage, and LED strips for illuminating and decorating outdoor spaces.

Factors to Consider Before Making a Lighting Decision

Ceiling Height:

• The height of the ceiling plays a crucial role in determining the type and intensity of lighting required. Higher ceilings may need more powerful lights or those with a focused beam.

Ceiling Type:

• The material and structure of the ceiling can impact the type of fixtures that can be installed. For example, suspended ceilings may be better suited for certain types of lighting like LED panels or troffers.

Facility Use / Type of Environment:

• The purpose of the facility significantly influences the lighting choices. Different environments have varying lighting needs based on their activities.

Required Brightness:

• The amount of light required will depend on the tasks performed in the space. This can range from low ambient lighting to high-intensity task lighting.

Examples:

• Warehouse Conversion to Office: Regular warehouse lighting would be too harsh for an office setting. Instead, consider suspending linear lights or pendant lights for a more comfortable and suitable lighting environment.

Facility Purpose and Suggested Lighting Options:

• Offices:
  • LED Panels
  • Troffers
  • Linear Suspension
  • Tube Lights
  • Pendant Lighting
• Warehouse/Storage:
  • High Bay LED
  • Low Bay LED Lights
• Garages:
  • Canopy Lights
  • UFO High Bays
  • Wraparound Fixtures
  • Shop Light
• Outdoor:
  • Flood Light
  • Wall Packs
  • Wall Mount
  • Canopy
• Other Wholesale Lights:
  • Explore various options based on specific needs and applications.

What Is the Difference Between Commercial Lighting and Industrial Lighting?

Although these two types of lighting are quite similar as they are used commercially, the key difference lies in how they are used.

Commercial Lighting:

• Used in spaces where general work is carried out or that are accessible to the public, such as offices, malls, and schools.
• Needs to be functional and efficient but also has a cosmetic purpose to enhance the environment.

Industrial Lighting:

• Used in manufacturing locations where lights are purely functional.
• Needs to be more robust to withstand the harsh conditions of industrial environments.

What Is the Difference Between Commercial and Residential Lighting?

There is a significant difference between commercial and residential lighting due to their different functions.

Residential Lighting:

• Focused on aesthetics and usability.
• Typically chosen for style, such as Edison-style filament bulbs for a warm light or LED spotlights in the ceiling.

Commercial Lighting:

• Designed for functionality, durability, and efficiency.
• Generally chosen for being functional and cost-efficient in terms of both running costs and initial price.

Which Type of Lighting Is Best for Commercial Use?

Commercial lighting is typically used for more hours in a day than residential lighting, requiring bulbs that last longer and are more efficient to reduce environmental impact.

LED Bulbs:

• A good choice due to their energy efficiency.
• An average LED light bulb costs approximately $3.66 per year when used for 10 hours per day.
• Widely available and customizable, offering businesses great flexibility and choice in creating the right atmosphere for their commercial space.

What Health and Safety Standards Do Commercial Lights Need to Meet?

All types of lighting need to adhere to health and safety standards, though the standards and regulations vary for each type.

US Standards:

• Energy Codes: Set by the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
• Electrical Codes: Governed by the National Electric Code (NEC).
• Occupational Safety: Regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
• Efficiency Standards: Set by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

Tips for Commercial Lighting to Boost Productivity

From the above discussions, you now have a good understanding of choosing the right lighting for your commercial space. Here are some tips to enhance productivity with commercial lighting:

1. Consider Natural Light

For commercial areas like restaurants, schools, and offices, always prioritize natural lighting. It creates a relaxing ambiance and helps save on electricity bills.

2. Implement Proper Task Lighting

Workstations require adequate brightness. Whether it’s a restaurant’s cooking station, office desk, or an automobile repair area, consider the specific needs of each task zone. Select fixtures that provide the necessary brightness to reduce eye strain and increase productivity.

3. Optimize Lighting Levels

Adequate lighting is crucial for productivity, but optimization is key. Use energy-efficient lighting options to maximize output with less energy consumption. Adhere to international lighting codes for commercial spaces. Using dimmers to reduce brightness at night can also save energy.

4. Choose the Right Color Temperature

Color temperature greatly affects the ambiance of your commercial space. The requirements vary depending on your services or products. For example, gold jewelry looks best under warm light, while white diamonds shine under cool light. Research the appropriate color temperature for your specific needs and choose accordingly.

5. Minimize Glare and Flicker

Glare and flicker can harm your service image and cause discomfort for customers and employees. They can lead to eye strain and headaches. Ensure your commercial lights do not flicker or cause direct glare. This article will guide you on handling issues with light fixtures: 29 Common Problems with LED Lighting.

6. Incorporate Circadian Lighting

Circadian lighting mimics natural light patterns, promoting well-being and supporting a healthy work environment. These lights positively impact mood, energy levels, and overall performance.

7. Provide Lighting Control Options

Consider providing lighting control options for individual sections. This allows employees to create the best working environment. Control options may include dimming, beam angle adjustability, and color temperature customization.

8. Consider Lighting Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps your lighting in good condition for longer. Although commercial lighting requires minimal maintenance, here are some simple tasks you can perform:

• Clean lights regularly to remove dust and dirt buildup.
• Replace burnt-out bulbs or damaged fixtures.
• Conduct routine inspections to identify any lighting issues.
• Maintain proper wiring and connections for reliable functionality.
• Keep spare bulbs and components for quick replacements.
• Schedule periodic maintenance checks by qualified professionals.
• Train staff on basic maintenance tasks to address minor issues promptly.
• Stay updated with advancements in lighting technology for potential upgrades or improvements.

Emerging Trends & Technologies in Commercial Lighting

Lighting technology is continuously evolving, bringing forth innovations that enhance commercial lighting. Here are some of the major trends and technologies expected to shape the future of commercial lighting:

Smart Lighting Systems: Smart lighting is already popular in commercial areas, featuring motion sensors on stairs, pathways, hotel restaurants, shopping malls, and more. With ongoing technological advancements, smart lighting will become even more common in various commercial settings.

Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: IoT enables interaction between lighting systems and other devices in commercial buildings. Implementing IoT in lighting will allow for centralized control, automation, and data-driven insights, leading to more efficient lighting management.

Human-Centric Lighting: Human-centric lighting mimics natural light patterns to support well-being and productivity. It considers factors such as color temperature, intensity, and lighting spectrums that align with the body’s circadian rhythm. In the near future, human-centric lighting will be a trend to promote alertness, mood enhancement, and better productivity in commercial areas.

LiDAR-Based Occupancy Sensing: LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology is being incorporated into lighting systems for precise occupancy sensing. These sensors use lasers to detect motion and presence. LiDAR-based occupancy sensing is emerging, particularly in the hospitality, healthcare, and entertainment sectors, offering more accurate and dependable lighting control based on real-time occupancy data.

Advanced Energy-Efficient LED Lighting: LED lighting continues to improve in energy efficiency, longevity, and light quality. Future LED technologies will offer enhanced energy savings, better color rendering, and greater design flexibility, making them even more attractive for commercial use.

Augmented Reality (AR) Lighting Design: Augmented reality (AR) allows designers to overlay virtual lighting fixtures onto real-world settings. This technology enables designers to explore various fixtures, positions, and lighting effects, providing extensive customization and experimentation for commercial spaces. AR gives a live preview of how different lighting solutions will look in a commercial environment.

 Top 6 Commercial Lighting Ideas

Want to make your commercial space stand out with something innovative? Of course, you do! To elevate the appearance of your space, here are six amazing lighting ideas that will take it to the next level.

1. Sculptural Lighting

Instead of plain ceiling lights, install sculptural fixtures to bring an aesthetic ambiance to your commercial spaces. These can be used for office desks, conference rooms, restaurant tables, or reception areas. Sculptural lighting also works well in waiting rooms or lobbies. Consider the interior design when choosing the structure of the light. Geometric-shaped pendant lights are a great option, and you can also contact manufacturers to design specific structures you envision. Adding such lights will transform the entire look of your space.

2. Focal Point Lighting

To illuminate your commercial space’s corridors or walkways, opt for focal point lighting. Target the center of the area and install lighting along the middle section. Different fixtures are suitable for this purpose, such as circular LED lights, semi-flush lights, or pot lights. Consider the interior design and select fixtures accordingly. Designer panel lights or even large chandeliers can also be used, but ensure that the fixtures match the area’s ambiance.

3. Geometric Lighting

Tired of dull ceiling lighting in commercial areas? Try geometric lighting. LED lights come in various shapes like circles, ovals, triangles, squares, hexagons, and more. Installing these geometric lights in your office, showroom, restaurants, and halls will create a fantastic outlook. You can also use DIY geometric lighting with LED strips or LED neon flex. These lights are flexible and can be shaped to your preference.

4. Minimalist Lighting

If you prefer simple lighting for your office or other commercial spaces, there are minimalist yet modern options available. While LED tube lights are a traditional minimalist choice, you can add a twist by using LED strips. Mount LED strips in a suspended technique with aluminum channels for an artistic appearance. Choose the length of the strips according to your preference. This suspended lighting technique is suitable for offices, warehouses, garages, or other commercial areas with high ceilings. There are also other LED mounting methods besides suspension. This guide will help you with mounting techniques for LED strips: Installing LED Flex Strips: Mounting Techniques.

5. Cove Lighting

Cove lighting is a modern approach to general lighting, providing a sleek and contemporary look to your commercial space. Create a false ceiling and insert LED strip lights along the inner part to achieve an indirect or hidden lighting effect. This method not only creates a sophisticated look but also reduces direct light glares. Cove lighting is ideal for offices, hotel lounges, waiting rooms, and receptions. For a more dynamic look in spaces like automobile showrooms, bars, or pubs, you can use LED neon flex instead of LED strips.

6. Logo Lighting

Highlighting your logo or brand name is essential for any commercial space, be it an office name, restaurant logo, or outlet logo. Track lights and spotlights can effectively highlight your business logo, but LED neon signage is a more affordable and efficient option. LED neon flex is super flexible, allowing you to create different shapes easily. Options like vertical bending, horizontal bending, and 360-degree bending are available. Use these to design your business logo. Here’s a guide on how to make a DIY LED neon sign: How to Make a DIY LED Neon Sign.

FAQ

Which type of lighting is best for commercial use? LED lights are best for commercial use. Compared to traditional lighting, they consume about 85% less energy, making them highly energy-efficient. They are also durable and offer advanced features that enhance the attractiveness of your business to customers.

Why is commercial lighting important? Commercial lighting is crucial for creating a welcoming and functional environment in commercial spaces. It enhances visibility, safety, and aesthetics, which are important for both employees and customers. Good lighting can improve productivity, highlight architectural features, and contribute to a positive customer experience.

What is the difference between commercial and residential lighting? The main differences between commercial and residential lighting are in their design, intensity, and purpose. Commercial lighting typically requires higher brightness levels, greater durability, and specific features to accommodate larger spaces and longer operational hours. In contrast, residential lighting focuses on creating a comfortable and pleasant ambiance for living spaces.

What are the benefits of using LED lighting in commercial settings? LED lighting offers several benefits in commercial settings, including:

• Energy efficiency: LED lights consume significantly less energy, reducing utility costs.
• Longevity: LED lights have a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
• Versatility: Available in various designs and color options, LED lights can be customized to suit different commercial needs.
• Environmental impact: LEDs are more eco-friendly as they consume less power and contain no hazardous materials.
• Enhanced features: LEDs provide advanced lighting options such as dimming, color tuning, and smart controls.

How to minimize the cost of commercial lighting? To minimize the cost of commercial lighting, consider the following strategies:

• Use energy-efficient LED lights: Reduce electricity consumption by choosing LED lights.
• Implement lighting controls: Use dimmers, timers, and motion sensors to avoid unnecessary usage.
• Opt for natural lighting solutions: Maximize the use of natural light to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.
• Regular maintenance: Keep lighting fixtures clean and well-maintained to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Choose high-quality fixtures: Invest in durable, high-quality fixtures that require less frequent replacement.

How long does commercial lighting last? The lifespan of commercial lighting varies depending on the type and quality of the fixtures. LED lights typically last the longest, with an average lifespan of 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more. This translates to several years of use, depending on the operational hours. Regular maintenance and proper usage can further extend the lifespan of commercial lighting.

The Bottom Line

Selecting the right lighting for your commercial space is crucial for optimizing functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. By carefully considering factors like required lumens, color temperature, and environmental conditions, you can create an environment that enhances productivity, customer experience, and overall business success.

MSHLED offers a wide range of high-quality LED strip lights and neon flex options to suit various commercial applications. Our products are designed to deliver exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and durability.

Contact us today to discuss your lighting project and discover how our solutions can transform your space.

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