How many do you know about beam angles

Liteharbor Lighting specializes in LED spots and downlights, with varying beam angles to fulfill a wide range of lighting needs. LEDs are directional by nature, casting a cone of light from the luminaire (typically installed along the ceiling) that culminates in a circle of light on the target area (typically the floor). The angle of the beam dictates the size of the area to be covered in light.

The ideal beam angle of your LED bulb or luminaire is determined by the distance between the light source and the target area for illumination. Generally speaking, the farther the light source is from the target area, the smaller the beam angle required to effectively illuminate the space.

Use this guide to select the best beam angle for LED spotlights installed 0 to 20 feet from the target area. Typical applications include gallery lighting, ceiling cans in the home or workplace, jewelry cases and other retail displays.

These figures are approximate, as a small percentage of the total lumen output of a spotlight falls outside of the cone, providing ambient light. Ambient light helps eliminate unsightly shadows or hotspots which are undesirable for most residential and commercial applications.
 

Use the guide below to specify the best beam angle for led downlights in facilities with high ceilings, between 20 and 60 feet from the floor. Typical applications include flood lighting and bay lighting for warehouses, stadiums, theaters, and outdoor parking.
It’s also important to factor in the distance between the light sources, especially when working with multiple existing fixtures. The radius of the light on the target area correlates with the radius from the center of the light source above. (Multiply the radius by 2 for the full diameter of your LED spotlight.)
 

To create overlapping beams of light for ambience, make sure that your beam spread diameter (radius x 2) is equal to or greater than the distance between light sources fixtures. Alternatively, you can isolate distinct beams of light with narrower angles for a dramatic effect.
 

For further help specifying LED lights for your installation, contact us.