The secret to transforming your outdoor space doesn't just lie in where you place your lights; it's also about how well they illuminate. Whether you're investing in path lighting, boosting security or highlighting a feature tree, understanding light output is key for achieving both ambience and functionality.
That's where lumens come in. As a true measure of a light's brightness, lumens help you choose fixtures that provide the perfect amount of light for any setting.
In this article, we shine a light on lumens, looking at the difference between lumens and watts, other factors that can affect how bright your lights are, and we answer the question of how many lumens you need for outdoor lighting fixtures in different scenarios.
What Are Lumens and Why Do They Matter?
Contrary to popular belief, it's lumens that measure brightness, not watts. Lumens measure the amount of visible light emitted by an outdoor lighting source, whereas watts measure how much energy a light uses.
Looking at both lumens and watts can help you find the most energy-efficient light bulbs for outdoor lighting installations. For example, an LED light bulb can produce the same lumen output as a traditional incandescent bulb using less power, making LED bulbs a brighter, yet more energy-efficient option.
Recommended Lumens by Outdoor Lighting Type
The number of lumens needed for your outdoor space will depend on the location and purpose of the light. Higher lumens are typically recommended for flood lights that aim to improve security, while lower lumens producing more muted, ambient lighting may be better suited to entertainment areas.
Here are some common examples of outdoor lighting features and the recommended lumen range:
- Pathway lighting. Outdoor lighting for paths should range from 100-200 lumens per lighting fixture and be spaced 2-3 metres apart for adequate illumination. Lower lumen options can be effective depending on space and beam angle.
- Security lighting. Providing adequate illumination is essential for safety. Effective security lights typically range from 700-1300 lumens.
- Deck and step lights. How many lumens are needed on your deck depends on individual zones, with around 100 lumens for ambient lighting, up to 500 lumens for focused illumination around dining or cooking areas.
- Outdoor space for entertaining. For a moderate level of brightness for an outdoor space, around 800 lumens is generally suitable.
- Garden lights. The recommended lumens for garden lighting depends on the size and the effect you desire. For an ambient glow, 100-200 lumens is adequate, but if you want more focused illumination, opt for a higher lumen output of up to 700 lumens.
- Festoon lights. Festoon lights should create a warm, inviting atmosphere, so lower lumens of 100-200 are best. Being able to dim the lights in your outdoor settings will also add to the functionality.
Factors That Affect How Bright Your Lights Feel
Are you finding that your outdoor lights aren't bright enough? Or so bright they're giving you a headache? Here are some factors, other than lumens, that can affect how bright your outdoor lighting feels.
Beam Angle and Placement
Outdoor lights should be placed at the right height and correct angle to maximise illumination. Too low, and they can shine in your eyes; too high, and they may fail to illuminate the area properly. Also, watch out for accidental shadowing and poor layering.
Colour Temperature
Brightness isn't the only factor to consider when choosing outdoor lighting solutions. Colour temperature, measured on the Kelvin (K) scale, can also have a huge impact on the feel of your lighting. Higher colour temperatures (blue-white light) can feel too harsh, while lower temperatures (warm yellow light) can sometimes feel too dim.
Reflections and Environment
An outdoor space that's already partly illuminated by neighbouring homes or streetlights may not need lights with a high lumen count to be effective. Spend some time in your outdoor areas in the dark to check for the impact of reflective surfaces like roofs and light spill from neighbouring properties.
Choosing the Right Lumen Level for Your Needs
There are many factors to consider when choosing how many lumens your outdoor lighting should have. The first is the purpose of the light. Base your light output requirements on your needs. For example, is the light for security, a garden bed or around a pool area? Each use will require a different amount of lumens.
Secondly, consider the size and layout of the area. Larger areas will require more lumens per fixture. Don't forget to ensure that fixtures are spaced appropriately for consistent illumination. Think carefully about the effect you want to create. Do you want a soft, warm glow or a bright, focused beam of light?
Finally, while electrical energy is by far the most reliable way to light up your backyard, energy efficiency should also be a consideration when choosing the right bulbs for your outdoor lighting project.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Outdoor Lighting Brightness
Choosing the best outdoor lighting option isn't just about picking the brightest option available. Small decisions can have a huge impact on how your space looks and feels.
It's easy to assume that more always equals better. However, high lumens can create harsh and overly bright spaces that may not be suitable for areas needing a more intimate or subdued atmosphere. Always choose your lumen level based on the specific space and desired effect; don't just go for the highest number.
Optimal lighting requires careful thought and planning. To achieve the desired effect, a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting may be required. Overlooking this is a common mistake, resulting in ineffective lighting that makes areas look too dark or washed out.
As discussed earlier, colour temperature is extremely important for effective lighting. A common mistake we see people making is combining different colour temperatures that leave spaces feeling disjointed. Choose consistent warm or cool tones for a sophisticated look in your outdoor entertainment area.
Need Help with Lighting Design? Fusion Lighting Makes It Simple!
Next time you're shopping for garden lights, remember, it's not the watts of the bulb that determine its brightness; it's the lumen output. If choosing the right lumen level for the right spot seems like a daunting task, why not have someone else do it for you?
At Fusion Lighting, we're a one-stop shop for high-quality outdoor lighting that balances looks and functionality. We don't just sell the lights, we will create a lighting design that helps you maximise the use of your outdoor spaces, making sure every aspect is considered, from brightness to positioning. Best of all, our custom lighting plans are currently free!
Visit our website to view our premium garden lights range and get help with your outdoor lighting layout or call 1300 463 735 to speak with a lighting expert today.
