Choosing a Type of Pole Light Bulb

Choosing a pole light bulb is not really too complicated. The manufacturer will recommend what type of bulb to use and sometime make their design so that nothing else can be used. Incandescent bulbs, High pressure sodium bulbs and Metal Halide Bulbs are the most often used for pole lights. Depending on where your light is located as well as what you are using the light for will, will be a determining factor in the bulb choice.

Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs are your sort of everyday bulb. They can be used indoors or out and are available in a variety of wattages. There are newer bulbs out that are improved upon and measured in lumens not wattage. These newer incandescent bulbs also last up to 5 years but are not available in decorative finishes.

High Pressure Sodium Bulbs

High pressure sodium bulbs are a very popular choice in outdoor lighting. They provide two times the amount of light than a standard mercury bulb. They are available in many different sizes and wattage outputs. High pressure sodium bulbs are the usual choice for lighting public streets and walkways. The light output can light further than one hundred feet on each side and more than thirty feet in front for a street light. There are bulbs more powerful than this as well that are used for ball parks and stadiums. The high pressure sodium light should be given major consideration when choosing a type of pole light bulb. They are interchangeable to most bulb types so switching them out should not be an issue. These lights put off a more yellow light.

Metal Halide Bulb

Metal halide lamps are also a very popular source of outdoor lighting. These bulbs look like a regular bulb and are adaptable to regular sockets. They are available in many different wattages and sizes and can light anything from a patio to a football field safely. Of course more bulbs are required to light the football field. These bulbs burn very hot and require a special housing to hold in the heat. Your pole light must state that metal halide light bulbs are suitable for use. Another consideration is that metal halide bulbs are considered a point source light so a reflective surface may be required if you intend to light a certain area. Metal halide bulbs tend to put off more of a white light and if enough power is not provided the light may appear more blue.

Incandescent bulbs, High pressure sodium bulbs and Metal halide bulbs are all choices that you have when looking into lighting for your pole light. They all offer different things and are compatible with most all light fixtures. Keep in mind the heat that will be produced as well as the area that you need to light. An intimate backyard gathering should not turn into an interrogation room, with light shining in everyone’s eyes. Choose a bulb that a pole light changer will adapt to instead of getting out the ladder for a high reach. Choose a bulb type, choose a wattage and make your pole light the decorative piece of art it was meant for in your landscape design.