Barn lighting is a very important and crucial factor, when setting up a new facility or remodeling an existing one, whether your work will be able to be performed easily and without physical restraint. Most barns will require a combination of several types of lighting such as natural, fluorescent, and even incandescent or halogen lighting in order to function economically and efficiently.
The most traditional type of barn lighting fixtures are the commercial grade gooseneck fixtures which bend into almost an “s” shaped arm to which the lighting fixture is attached. This design gives an authentic feel to a barn or workshop and is a superb way to add character to the area. They create a rustic impression to an otherwise modern looking establishment and can bring the look back to a more agricultural one. Gooseneck features, however, come at a steep price; over $200 for one simple fixture when you’d need at least a dozen of them for adequate lighting. This type of lighting make an attractive exterior light, for doorways or small entrances.
One must also take into consideration that harsh weather conditions, dust and moisture will often be present so barn lighting fixtures must be capable of handling these kinds of conditions. Choose a weather-resistant fixture that offers a sort of seamless construction which is airtight to protect against moisture intrusion.
Floodlights are generally the lighting of choice due to their power and ability to be used on high ceilings. Floodlights are found in a variety of different wattages and colors so that you can create exactly the right ambience inside your workshop or barn. They are also often outfitted with electric switches that automatically turn them on at dusk or through the use of a motion detector to provide security and total illumination.
Florescent lights are another inexpensive way to illuminate areas of the barn through the use of wall mounted or suspended fixtures which hold florescent bulbs. Again, florescent lighting is available in different wattages and are a great way to add a different set of lighting to change the décor and functionality of your work space.
Another cost effective alternative to traditional lighting is solar lighting. Essentially, a solar panel is set up in a sunny location and is connected through a cable to the lighting fixture. Solar barn lights can operate for up to 10 days without sunshine and is a great substitute for doorway or interior lighting or as a backup light source if the main source of power goes out.
Optimization of lighting conditions in barns, especially where food producing animals are housed such as dairy cows is of the utmost importance because it has a direct relation to the productivity of the animals. Studies have proven that providing exposure of 16 – 18 hours of “daylight” can increase milk production in dairy heifers; at the same time, extending past 18 hours can adversely affect production. Making sure that the barn lighting situation is economical, advantageous, and cost effective are the most important aspects to operating a profitable farm.