What Are the Different Types of LED High Bay Lights and Where Are They Used?

LED high bay lights come in various forms, each designed to meet different needs in industrial and commercial environments. This article breaks down the most common types and explains where each is best used.

Understanding LED High Bay Lighting Basics

LED high bay lighting refers to fixtures designed for ceilings above 20 feet. Unlike standard lighting, these lights are built to project intense brightness over a large vertical space. They’re widely used in warehouses, manufacturing plants, airport hangars, and large retail stores.

The adoption of LED high bay light technology has grown rapidly due to its efficiency and versatility across many sectors. Compared to traditional lighting solutions, LED fixtures offer better lifespan, light quality, and energy savings.

Common Types of LED High Bay Lights

UFO LED High Bay Lights

Named for their round, compact design, UFO high bays are ideal for open spaces with high ceilings. They have a concentrated beam and are perfect for warehouses, gymnasiums, and industrial plants.

Features:

• Easy installation with hook or pendant mounting
  
  

• IP65-rated for dust and water resistance
  
  

• Great for locations where focused light is required

Linear LED High Bay Lights

These are rectangular in shape and resemble fluorescent fixtures. They provide broader light coverage, making them ideal for aisle lighting or areas requiring even distribution.

Features:

• Excellent for supermarkets and workshops
  
  

• Available in multiple lengths (2ft, 4ft)
  
  

• Often used in parallel arrays across large ceilings

Modular LED High Bay Lights

Modular designs allow for flexible wattage configurations and easier maintenance. These are often used in large-scale facilities where uptime and customization are critical.

Features:

• Replaceable light modules
  
  

• Customizable optics and controls
  
  

• Ideal for ports, logistics centers, or custom projects

Explosion-Proof LED High Bay Lights

Used in hazardous environments like oil refineries or chemical plants, these fixtures are sealed to prevent ignition of flammable gases or particles.

Features:

• High safety certifications (ATEX, UL, etc.)
  
  

• Durable aluminum alloy housings
  
  

• Suitable for zones with volatile substances

Factors That Determine the Right Type for You

Ceiling Height and Mounting Distance

The higher the ceiling, the more lumens and the narrower the beam angle you’ll need. For 20–30 ft ceilings, 15,000–25,000 lumens is typical.

Layout and Floor Usage

Aisles require linear lighting for uniform coverage, while open floors are better served by UFO-style lights. Warehouses with racking need vertical light penetration to improve visibility between shelves.

Ambient Conditions

If your facility is exposed to moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures, opt for high IP-rated or explosion-proof models.

Energy Goals and Controls

Facilities aiming to reduce consumption may benefit from smart controls like occupancy sensors, daylight sensors, and dimming features. Most high bay LED lights can now integrate with wireless or DALI systems.

Upgrading to LED: What You Should Know

If you’re still using metal halide or fluorescent high bays, retrofitting with LED fixtures can reduce power usage by 60% or more. Installation is often plug-and-play if the right drivers and voltages are matched. Initial cost is offset by reduced maintenance and energy bills over time.

Make sure to verify:

• Wattage equivalent (replace 400W HID with ~150W LED)
  
  

• Color temperature (4000K–5000K is typical)
  
  

• Beam angle (60° for narrow, 120° for wide)
  
  

• Certifications (DLC, UL, CE) for quality assurance

Conclusion

Choosing the right LED high bay light depends on more than just wattage—it’s about matching form, function, and environment. With the right type, your facility gains not just better lighting, but safer, more cost-efficient operations.