are also very effective, although the on and off times need to be programmed for seasonal changes. Mechanical timers are also very effective. They seem to run forever, but power outages really mess things up until the clocks can be reset. On and off times need to be manually set seasonally.


Mechanical timers seem to run forever, but power outages really mess things up.


Exterior Light Colors Each community will have their own preference for outdoor light color. For the most appealing overall look, it is best to keep the color of the light consistent overall.


Sof t White Most packaging will say “soft white” but the bulb itself will be referenced by 2700 K  PROS – Comfortable and popular light color.


Bright White Some manufactures refer to this as a cool white. This bulb is 3000K PROS – Good for patio or porch lights although some communities still prefer soft white for everything.


Daylight This is a very bright white bulb in the 5000K range. PROS – Good for illuminating security areas.


Retro Orange An outlier on the common exterior light scale is the high-pressure sodium, which is almost orange. PROS – Reliable older technology.


Metal halide / high-pressure sodium were the standard outdoor area lights for years.


Exterior and Parking Lot Lighting There are four common building/parking lot (or area) exterior lights: metal halide/high pressure sodium,


 LED technology.


 Metal Halide & High-Pressure Sodium


These were the standard area lights for years. They are a 


in color) or high-pressure sodium bulb (orange in color).  PROS – Reliable, older technology. Lots of light for the wattage. Basically 50 watts of power will get you about 300 watts of light.


− CONS – Ballasts tend to fail over time and will begin to cycle on and off. Ballasts are expensive and time consuming to change. If a ballast fails, the    


Mercury vapor bulbs are typically used in street lights. 


Mercury Vapor


Typically used in street lights.  PROS – High light output. − CONS If they fail, consider replacing them with a longer 


Ballasted Compact Fluorescent  with larger 42 watt bulbs.  PROS – These were a good replacement option for metal halide/high pressure sodium lights.


− CONS are now replacing these.


LED lights provide the same light for even less power. 


LED - Light-Emitting Diode These are the latest and greatest replacements for all


exterior area lighting.  PROS – Choice of several color ranges. Longer lifespan than other light options and provide the same light for even less power.


Continued On Page 22  wscai.org 21


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