Choosing the right lumens for outdoor lighting can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be! With this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about lumens for outdoor spaces and how to choose the perfect brightness for your needs.
What are Lumens?
Lumens are a measure of the total amount of visible light emitted by a light source. The more lumens, the brighter the light.
When shopping for lighting, you’ll see the lumens measurement listed on lightbulb packaging and fixtures. The lumens rating tells you how much light the bulb produces, not how bright it appears.
How Many Lumens are Recommended for Outdoor Lighting?
The ideal lumens for outdoor lighting depends on the size of the area you want to illuminate and what tasks will be performed in that space. Here are some general recommendations:
Small Spaces (entryways, porches)
- 400-800 lumens – Provides basic visibility for walking and seeing in a small area. Good for entryways.
- 800-1300 lumens – Enables easy visibility for tasks like finding keys around a door. Suitable for small porches.
Medium Spaces (patios, gardens)
- 1300-1800 lumens – Allows comfortable visibility for casual socializing in a medium area. Works for small patios.
- 1800-2500 lumens – Provides good illumination for tasks like grilling on a medium patio. Also lights up garden pathways.
Large Areas (driveways, large patios)
- 2500-4000 lumens – Delivers sufficient light for activities like outdoor dining on a large patio or lighting up a driveway.
- 4000-6000 lumens – Illuminates larger gatherings and tasks requiring good visibility across a wide area.
As a general rule of thumb, you’ll need 20-50 lumens per square foot for basic visibility in an outdoor area. Increase to 50-80 lumens per square foot for tasks requiring good illumination.
Factors that Determine Ideal Outdoor Lumens
Choosing the perfect lumens level involves more than just the size of your space. Here are some other factors to consider:
Ambient Light
Outdoor areas don’t exist in a vacuum – consider natural and artificial ambient light that will supplement your outdoor lighting. Areas that get significant sunlight or have bright street lighting will need fewer lumens from light fixtures.
Lighting Goals
Assess what tasks will take place in the space. Do you need lighting for safety and navigation? Task lighting for gardening or auto repair? Ambiance for parties? Dramatic security lighting? Match the lumens to the goals.
Bulb Type
Some bulb varieties distribute light more efficiently than others. ENERGY STAR qualified LEDs provide the most light per watt, so they require fewer lumens than other bulbs to achieve the same brightness.
Personal Preferences
The “right” amount of light comes down to individual needs and tastes. Consider your own eyesight and whether you prefer bright light or more subtle illumination.
Lighting Design
Properly designed lighting makes the most of every lumen. Optimal fixture placement, beam angles, reflectivity and layering mean you can achieve great visibility with fewer lumens.
By keeping all these factors in mind, you can select just the right lumens for amazing outdoor lighting day or night.
Outdoor Lighting Areas and Their Lighting Needs
Let’s look at some specific outdoor areas and how many lumens you’ll need for great illumination.
Pathways
Clear visibility for walking is essential for outdoor pathways. You’ll need:
- 400-800 lumens for short paths up to 25 feet long. Marks a route without glare.
- 800-1300 lumens for paths 25-50 feet long. Provides good visibility.
- 1300-2000 lumens for paths over 50 feet. Illuminates the entire length.
Position pathway fixtures low for ideal visibility – look for fixtures that shine light downward and avoid glare.
Entryways
You want to brightly welcome visitors and provide safety and visibility near doors. Aim for:
- 400-800 lumens for basic visibility at the door.
- 800-1200 lumens to illuminate steps and immediate area.
- 1200-2000 lumens for large entryways and maximum visibility.
Wall sconces or downlights work best near doors.
Garages
With cars, tools and all kinds of hazards, garages need ample illumination so you can see clearly.
- 1200-2000 lumens lights up a single-car garage.
- 2000-4000 lumens for a two-car garage. Go higher for workshop spaces.
LED shop lights or floodlights provide full coverage.
Patios
Create an inviting ambiance on patios for dining, parties and relaxing. The right lumens depend on size:
- Small (less than 150 sq ft): 1300-2500
- Medium (150-400 sq ft): 2500-4000
- Large (400+ sq ft): 4000-6000
Use downlights, string lights and spotlights. Mix and layer multiple types for interest.
Landscaping
Subtle lighting can transform gardens, trees and yards into dramatic features after dark.
- 400-800 lumens for accent lighting shrubs and flower beds.
- 800-2000 for uplighting trees. Higher for very large trees.
- 2000-4000 for general landscape illumination.
Opt for path lighting, spotlights and concealed fixtures.
Driveways
Lumens in the 4000-8000 range provide adequate visibility for parking and walking along driveways. Key areas to illuminate:
- Parking areas
- Paths to the home
- Steps, changes in grade
- Entry points where cars enter the driveway
Backyards
For yards used for entertaining, sports or play after daylight hours, provide:
- 2000-4000 lumens for small yards up to 400 sq ft
- 4000-8000 lumens for larger yards up to 1000 sq ft
- 8000-12000 for big backyards over 1000 sq ft
Decks
Decks double your living space in warmer months for parties and meals. Light them up with:
- 2500-4000 lumens for decks less than 400 sq ft
- 4000-6000 lumens for larger decks up to 750 sq ft
- Go higher for big party decks.
Downlights on eaves or soffits spread even light.
Pools
Pool lighting serves both safety and ambiance. Provide ample light where people walk and gather:
- 3000-5000 lumens around above-ground pool decks
- 5000-8000 lumens surrounding larger in-ground pool patios
- Go higher if the deck/patio is very large.
Use floodlights, path lighting and overhead spotlights. Underwater lights add dramatic beauty.
Choosing Light Bulbs by Lumens
Now that you know how many lumens you need, it’s time to shop for light bulbs! Here’s an overview of common bulb types and the lumen levels they offer:
Incandescent Bulbs
- 250-500 lumens: 25 watt
- 750-1050 lumens: 40 watt
- 1100-1700 lumens: 60 watt
- 1800-2500 lumens: 75 watt
- 2850-3100 lumens: 100 watt
Incandescents are inefficient – you get lots of heat but little light per watt.
CFL (Compact Fluorescent) Bulbs
- 250-600 lumens: 9-13 watt
- 800-1200 lumens: 13-18 watt
- 1600-1700 lumens: 23-25 watt
- 2200-2400 lumens: 30-32 watt
CFLs use 75% less energy than incandescents for the same lumens.
LED (Light Emitting Diode) Bulbs
- 400-600 lumens: 4-7 watts
- 800-1300 lumens: 9-13 watts
- 1600-1800 lumens: 16-20 watts
- 2200-2500 lumens: 25-28 watts
LEDs are the most energy efficient. They offer the most light per watt.
Halogen Bulbs
- 750-1000 lumens: 35 watt
- 1200-1500 lumens: 50 watt
- 2000-2200 lumens: 72 watt
Halogens are more efficient than incandescents while maintaining bright “white” light.
Each bulb type has pros and cons in efficiency, color, lifespan and more. Consider all aspects when choosing lighting. An experienced electrical contractor can help make the best choice for your home and needs.
Outdoor Lighting Styles by Lumens
Here’s a look at common outdoor lighting fixture styles and the lumen levels they offer:
Porch Lights
- 400-800 lumens: Wall-mounted fixtures
- 800-1500 lumens: Ceiling or pendant styles
Bright enough for visibility while providing some ambiance.
Path Lights
- 300-500 lumens: Low-voltage, accent lighting
- 500-1000 lumens: Bright pavement illumination
Directs light right where it’s needed. Available in LED, halogen, incandescent.
Step Lights
- 200-400 lumens: Low-profile risers/stairs illumination
- 500-1000 lumens: Higher for better visibility
Whether recessed or surface-mounted, ideal for stairs.
Spotlights
- 600-1300 lumens: Fixed bulb spotlights
- 1300-2000+ lumens: Adjustable LED spotlights
Perfect for highlighting architectural features and landscaping.
Floodlights
- 1200-2000 lumens: Small LED floodlights
- 2500-5000+ lumens: Large halogen/LED floodlights
Made to brightly illuminate large areas like driveways and backyards.
Post Lights
- 500-1000 lumens: Downward distribution
- 1000-2000+ lumens: Omnidirectional for broad coverage
Modern interpretations of gas lampposts. Available in wide variety of styles.
Lanterns
- 400-1000 lumens: Classic country & colonial styles
- 1000-2000 lumens: Large decorative lanterns
Add old-fashioned elegance along walkways and entry points.
There are so many outdoor lighting styles – explore all the possibilities and find options that deliver both the look and lumens you desire.
Tips for Choosing the Right Outdoor Lighting
Follow these tips as you select fixtures and bulbs for outdoor spaces:
- Take daytime and nighttime measurements of areas to be illuminated. Calculate square footage to determine needed lumens.
- Note existing ambient light such as streetlights which may allow you to reduce lumens.
- Determine primary lighting goals like safety, navigation, task lighting or ambiance.
- Choose ENERGY STAR LED bulbs and fixtures for maximum efficiency and longevity.
- Look for fixtures designed to direct light where it’s needed like downward for paths. Avoid excessive glare.
- Layer lighting for depth and interest. Use different fixture styles and mixes of floodlights and spotlighting.
- Place fixtures at optimal heights depending on use. Path lights 12-18 inches off the ground, porch lights 8-9 feet high.
- Use dimmers and smart controls to adjust light levels for changing needs. Dim for ambiance, maximum brightness when task lighting.
- Consider the style of your home and outdoor living areas. Find fixture designs that integrate for a cohesive look.
- Consult with a professional electrician or landscape lighting expert for outdoor spaces with multiple needs, challenging layouts or safety concerns.
The time you take to find just the right lumens levels and fixtures for outdoor areas will pay off in great lighting for years to come.
Outdoor Lighting Safety Tips
When installing and using outdoor lighting, prioritize safety with these tips:
- Only use fixtures and wiring designed for outdoor use. Ensure all electric components are UL listed.
- Shut off power at the breaker before installing new fixtures. Follow local electrical codes and ordinances.
- Use ground fault interrupter (GFCI) outlets or breakers for all outdoor receptacles and wired lighting.
- Direct wire permanent fixtures to power sources. Avoid using outlets and extension cords which can trip hazards.
- Use weatherproof electrical boxes and conduit for wiring. Seal all connections to prevent water entry and corrosion.
- Position fixtures carefully to avoid glare, especially if lighting faces streets or neighboring properties.
- Use 9-12 gauge wiring for fixtures located more than 100 feet from the power source to handle the electrical load.
- Shut off and unplug outdoor lighting during storms or wet weather.
- Check lighting and wiring periodically for damage. Fix or replace old fixtures that may pose safety risks.
- Keep vegetation trimmed away from lighting. Prevent growth from obstructing light or creating fire hazards.
Smart lighting choices maximize safety so you can fully enjoy your illuminated outdoor oasis day or night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Lighting Lumens
Still have questions about finding the perfect outdoor lighting lumens? Here are answers to some common questions:
How many lumens do I need for a porch light?
800-1500 lumens is ideal for porch illumination. A 60W equivalent LED porch light bulb provides 800-1300 lumens.
What lumen level is best for accent lighting?
For accenting architectural features and landscaping, 300-1000 lumens is sufficient. Path lighting and spotlights work well to direct interest without overpowering.
How bright should driveway lighting be?
4000-8000 lumens provides ample visibility and safety for navigating a driveway without glare or light pollution.
What is the brightest bulb for outdoor floodlights?
LED and metal halide floodlight bulbs range from 2500-100000+ lumens. 5000-20000 lumens works great for effectively lighting most yards and exteriors.
How many lumens do I need to light a 25×25 patio?
A 625 square foot patio needs around 25000-50000 lumens depending on activities. String lights provide ambiance, and floodlights or spotlights illuminate fully.
What beam spread should I look for in landscape lighting?
25-50 degree beams highlight features without spill. Wider 60-120 degree beams cover large areas. Narrow spotlights under 10 degrees create dramatic accents.
Should I look for color temperature information when choosing outdoor lighting?
Yes, cooler color temperatures under 5000K create bright white light. Warmer tones below 3000K provide soft ambient lighting.
How often do outdoor LED bulbs need to be replaced?
Outdoor LED bulbs last 35000-50000 hours. Expect to replace them every 4-6 years with average use of 6-8 hours per day.
Can I put a higher lumen bulb in a fixture than recommended?
It’s not recommended. Overpowered fixtures can overheat, short circuit and become a fire risk. Stick within recommended wattages.
Hopefully these FAQs helped shed light on some key considerations for outdoor lumen needs!
Conclusion
Determining the ideal lumens for lighting your outdoor living areas may seem complicated at first. But by taking stock of your goals, space sizes and uses, you can easily calculate the right brightness.
Aim for at least 20-50 lumens per square foot for basic illumination. Increase to 50-80 lumens per square foot for tasks or activities needing optimal visibility. Consider existing ambient light, fixture placement and bulb types too for the most efficient outdoor lighting.
From pathways to patios, entryways to backyards, this guide covers suggested lumens for every common outdoor zone. Just match your needs to our recommendations to find perfect fixtures and bulbs!
With the right amount of lumens lighting up your exterior spaces, you’ll enjoy great visibility and ambiance for outdoor living any time of day or night.