Features to Consider in Court Lighting
Lighting is an integral component of every game court, whether basketball, tennis, pickleball or volleyball.
Lighting is an integral component of every game court, whether basketball, tennis, pickleball or volleyball. A strategically placed and distributed lighting system illuminates the field to ensure a safe game and a proper and clear broadcast. In addition, quality court lighting benefits players and spectators by providing them with a clear vision. Lighting will always play a critical role in any match (indoor or outdoor court) at a school, college, backyard, or professional level.
Insufficient court lighting makes it difficult for the players to see and follow the ball and for people who came to watch the game to comprehend what is going on on the field. While traditional lighting options like metal halide lamps and halogens have long been used in game courts, these options are not durable and burn a hole in the pocket regarding maintenance requirements, energy efficiency, and purchase costs. As a result, LEDs have emerged as a more long-lasting and affordable lighting solution for court lighting.
Whether lighting up a new court with LEDs or changing the design of an existing one, here are a few considerations to ensure it is up to standard:
Distribution of lighting
When lighting up a sports field, light beam angles are an essential consideration. Wide beam angles will result in wastage, while narrow beam angles will affect the light uniformity. For best performance, choose the most appropriate lighting distribution beam angle.
IP rating
Humidity and wet weather can affect light performance and lifespan, especially outdoor courts. Therefore, it is required for all LED court lighting to have an IP rating. Choose an IP65-rated light to illuminate the court to ensure proper working and longevity. Another feature to consider in LED lights is surge protection. Get LED lights with surge protection to prevent them from getting damaged due to a sudden surge and avoid any interruption to the game in the middle.
Glare issues
Intense glare affects the vision and performance of the players and is irritating and uncomfortable for the spectators. Keep the glare as minimum as possible and choose anti-glare lights for indoor and outdoor game courts. For indoor courts with reflective floors, experts recommend using indirect lighting.
Lux level
The lux level of LED lighting is another vital feature to consider. The lighting standards require a specific lux for non-televised and televised events. Please seek professional help to understand the lumens needed to illuminate a game court, depending on its size and purpose. Also, consider factors like lighting CRI and color temperature.
Thermal management
The LED light lifespan depends on the temperature. So check the temperature of the luminaire and choose LED lights with the best heat-releasing material for the game court.
High-quality lights
High-quality lights with a low flicker rate (less than 3%) are the best to light up a game court and get the correct illumination while broadcasting. In addition, LED lights with an excellent warranty and great thermal management often require less maintenance and are not a hassle post-installation.
Maximize the lighting
Consult an outdoor court construction and renovation company to understand the lighting requirements and ensure proper lighting for the game court.
Apex Court Builders specialize in construction, resurfacing and repair of tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts, and more. We do business in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Diego! Call us today! (480) 384-9141.
