LED lights are becoming increasingly popular in various settings, including schools and educational facilities. This is partly due to their energy efficiency, as they use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. In addition to their energy-saving benefits, LED lights also provide improved lighting quality, with the ability to adjust color temperature and brightness to create the desired lighting ambiance. Lighting is a critical component of an educational setting as it affects student performance, comfort, and behavior. With LED lights, educational facilities can create a better learning experience for students, leading to improved academic outcomes.
Whether you are looking to upgrade your classroom lighting or outfit an entire campus, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Benefits of LED lights in an Educational Setting
LED lights are highly energy efficient, which means they use less electricity and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, schools and universities can save significant money on utility bills by switching to LED lights. In addition, LED lights have a longer lifespan than traditional light bulbs, requiring less maintenance and needing to be replaced less frequently. This can lead to further cost savings and reduce disruptions in the learning environment. LED lights are also known for their durability, as they are less likely to break or malfunction than traditional light bulbs. As a result, LED lights in an educational setting can lead to significant cost savings, improved durability, and reduced maintenance requirements.
LED Lighting and Improved Learning
LED lights can improve a learning environment in several ways. First, they provide better visibility and are brighter and more efficient than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights. This can help students see their notes and assignments more clearly, improving focus and productivity. LED lights can also reduce eye strain, as they do not flicker like other types of lighting. This can be especially beneficial for students who spend long hours studying or working on the computer, as it can help prevent headaches and fatigue.
LED Lights for an Educational Setting
When choosing the proper lighting for an educational setting, it’s essential to consider both form and function of each space. You’ll need to understand how each room will be used and select LED lighting that supports the setting.
Task Lighting
Task lighting is important for desks, workstations, and other areas where students and teachers must see to complete tasks. LED desk lamps and under-cabinet lights are examples of task lighting options.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting helps create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere in an educational setting. LED panel lights are made to replace conventional fluorescent ceiling lights and are designed to mount on suspended grid ceilings or recessed ceilings. LED panel lights deliver a smooth and flawless wall of illumination without visible bulbs or hot spots.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting can highlight specific areas or features in an educational setting. LED track lighting and LED downlight fixtures are both great options.
Large Room Lighting
Large rooms such as gyms, sports courts, media centers, auditoriums, and cafeterias benefit from bright, durable LED lighting. LED high bay lights are a good choice for gyms and cafeterias. If the space will be used for more low-light activities, LED panel lights or LED downlights are a good choice.
Exterior Lighting
There are multiple LED light options for outside of the school building or university campus that provide added safety and security. Wall packs can be installed on the exterior of buildings to illuminate sidewalks and pedestrian areas. Area lights provide wide-flood area lighting for parking lots and courtyards. Exterior LED lights are available with dusk to dark sensors and are designed to withstand all climates and extreme temperature ranges.
Factors to Consider When Choosing LED Lights for an Educational Setting
LED lights come in various color temperatures, from warm white to cool white. Choosing the right color temperature can help create a suitable atmosphere for learning. It’s important to consider whether a particular color temperature is better suited for certain areas of the facility (e.g., warm white for relaxation areas and cool white for task-oriented areas). You’ll also want to look for LED lights that rate high on the Color Rendering Index (CRI). Choosing LED lights with the appropriate brightness level for the intended use is also important. Too dim, and the space may feel uninviting, while too bright can cause eye strain. Be sure to consider whether dimmable LED lights would be helpful in certain areas, such as classrooms, media rooms, and multi-purpose rooms, where the lighting needs may change throughout the day.
Whether you are retrofitting an existing classroom or building a new learning environment, EarthTronics makes it easy to implement LED lighting into your school or university. We provide multiple LED lighting solutions for a variety of interior and exterior lighting applications. Our LED lights are designed to be more durable and come with everything you need for installation, saving contractors time and money.
To discuss LED lighting for your educational setting, contact us today!