High Bay Light Spacing: How to Optimize Your Warehouse and Industrial Lighting Layout
by Administrator | Jun 27, 2025
Proper high bay light spacing is essential for achieving efficient and uniform illumination. This is especially important in large indoor spaces such as warehouses, factories, and gymnasiums. Poorly spaced fixtures can cause uneven lighting, dark spots, and glare. Moreover, improper spacing may increase energy costs due to over- or under-lighting.
In this guide, we will explain the key factors that influence high bay light spacing. Additionally, we provide practical tips and calculation methods. These will help you design an optimal lighting layout tailored to your facility’s specific needs.
What Is High Bay Light Spacing?
High bay light spacing refers to the distance between individual fixtures. These fixtures are mounted at significant heights, typically between 15 to 50 feet (4.5 to 15 meters). Correct spacing ensures the light from each fixture overlaps properly. This overlap creates consistent, uniform illumination across the entire area.
Key Factors Affecting High Bay Light Spacing
Ceiling Height
Ceiling height significantly influences fixture spacing. Generally, the higher the mounting height, the wider the spacing can be. However, this depends on the fixtures’ beam angles. Fixtures must have appropriate beam angles to focus light effectively.
Beam Angle
Beam angle defines how wide light spreads from a fixture. Narrow beam angles, such as 30°, produce concentrated light. These are suitable for high ceilings requiring focused lighting. On the other hand, wider beam angles, like 90° or more, cover broader areas. They allow for wider fixture spacing.
Required Illumination Level
Different facilities and tasks demand varying brightness levels, measured in lux. Higher lux requirements usually mean fixtures need to be spaced closer together. This ensures sufficient light for the workspace.
Layout and Space Dimensions
The shape and size of a space affect fixture placement. Rectangular, square, or irregular rooms may require customized layouts. This customization helps maintain uniform light distribution.
Surface Reflectivity
Walls and ceilings with light colors reflect more light. This reflectivity can reduce the number of fixtures needed. It may also allow for wider fixture spacing.
How to Calculate High Bay Light Spacing
A common method to estimate spacing is the Spacing-to-Mounting Height Ratio, or SHR:
SHR =
Distance Between Fixtures
Mounting Height
SHR balances coverage and brightness. Typical SHR values range from 0.5 to 1.5. The exact value depends on beam angle and design requirements.
Recommended SHR by Beam Angle
Beam Angle
Recommended SHR Range
Usage Notes
30°
0.5 – 0.8
Narrow beam for focused lighting
60°
0.8 – 1.2
Moderate beam for general lighting
90° and above
1.0 – 1.5
Wide beam for broad coverage
Example: If your fixtures mount at 20 feet with a 60° beam angle, the ideal spacing is between 16 and 24 feet. (20 ft × 0.8 = 16 ft, 20 ft × 1.2 = 24 ft)
Practical Tips for Optimal High Bay Light Spacing
Use lighting simulation software such as Dialux. These tools simulate fixture layouts and spacing. This helps ensure uniform light distribution before installation.
Consider task-specific lighting needs. For example, assembly lines may require higher lux levels and closer fixture spacing. Storage areas might allow wider spacing.
Plan for maintenance. Ensure fixtures are easy to access and clean. Dirt buildup can reduce light output and affect spacing effectiveness.
Integrate smart controls. Using dimmers and occupancy sensors optimizes energy consumption. This also adapts lighting to actual usage.
Avoid glare. Proper beam angle selection and fixture positioning reduce glare. This improves worker comfort and safety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Spacing fixtures too far apart, which causes dark spots and uneven lighting.
Ignoring variations in ceiling height. Spaces with different ceiling heights need tailored spacing plans.
Overlooking surface colors. Dark walls absorb light and may require more fixtures.
Neglecting fixture type and beam angle. Different fixtures have unique light distributions. Generic spacing rules can lead to poor lighting results.
Conclusion
Optimizing high bay light spacing is key to creating energy-efficient, safe, and visually comfortable environments. By considering mounting height, beam angle, and specific lighting requirements, you can design a lighting layout that maximizes performance while minimizing costs.
If you plan a new lighting project or want to upgrade existing fixtures, consulting lighting professionals is recommended. Also, leverage simulation tools to achieve the best results.
