Streetlights are an important aspect of our urban landscape as they provide illumination and safety at night. They have many applications. Outdoor streetlights create a well-lit environment on streets, public spaces, and highways, allowing us to walk safely and easily. A wide variety of streetlights are on the market to meet different needs. Therefore, when choosing a streetlight, it is recommended that you compare the different types of streetlights together to ensure that you make an informed buying decision.
Table of Contents
Three Common Types of Streetlights
The three most common types of streetlights available on the market include LED streetlights, high-pressure sodium (HPS) streetlights, and metal halide (MH) streetlights. Read on to learn about them.
1. LED Streetlight
LED streetlight is a type of lighting that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as its primary light source. It is easy-install and has a high-lumen output. Its superior color rendering, energy efficiency, and durability make it an ideal option for high-traffic areas, residential streets, and parking lots.
2. High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) Streetlight
This type of streetlight uses a high-pressure sodium bulb as its primary light source. HPS streetlights have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them suitable for outdoor lighting. They emit a warm yellow-orange light and are also very cost economical.
3. Metal Halide (MH) Streetlight
This type of streetlight uses a metal halide bulb to produce light. The lighting produced has a high lumen output, similar to daylight, because of its bright white color. MH streetlights are commonly used in sports facilities and parking lots. They are energy efficient but have a shorter lifespan compared to other streetlights available on the market.
LED Vs. HPS Vs. MH Streetlight: The Overall Comparison
1. Energy Efficiency
LED streetlights are the most energy-efficient type. They can save up to 80% in energy costs in the long term compared to HPS and MH streetlights. MH streetlights are relatively more energy efficient than HPS streetlights but less energy efficient than LED streetlights. HPS streetlights are the least energy efficient and consume up to 3x more energy than LED streetlights.
2. Lifespan
LED streetlights have the longest lifespan. They can last up to 100,000 hours without issues. MH streetlights have the shortest expected lifespan, up to 20,000 hours. HPS streetlights are in the middle, with an expected lifespan of up to 32,000 hours.
3. Color Rendering
LED streetlights are one of the most versatile types of streetlights available on the market. They can produce a brighter, more natural light that boosts visibility and safety at night. Their Color Rendering Index (CRI) is over 80. HPS streetlights emit a warm yellow-orange light. They have a CRI of 20-30. MH streetlights emit a bright white light similar to daylight, with a CRI of 60-65.
4. Directionality
LED streetlights are the most directional among the three types of streetlights. They allow for greater control when aiming and can provide optimal lighting in specific areas. In this way, they help minimize light pollution. HPS and MH streetlights are omnidirectional. This means they spread their lighting in all directions, making it difficult to contain and control the light.
5. Cost And Maintenance
The upfront cost of LED streetlights is relatively higher than HPS and MH streetlights. However, they are cost-effective in the long run because of their excellent durability, longer lifespan, and high energy efficiency. While HPS and MH streetlights have a low upfront cost, they require more frequent maintenance and replacement.
Choose A Reputed Led Streetlight Manufacturer –Mason
From the above comparison, it is clear that LED streetlights are a winner in all the key aspects. There are many types of streetlights available on the market. LED, HPS, and MH are the three most common types. When compared, LED streetlights are undoubtedly a superior choice in key aspects like energy efficiency, lifespan, color rending, directionality, and long-term value. However, buying from a reputed LED streetlight manufacturer is vital, since high-quality products will serve you for years.
The seasoned LED light manufacturer Mason offers a wide range of reliable LED streetlight solutions with superior performance, longer lifespan, excellent energy efficiency, and more. The advanced LED technology that the brand uses to produce different types of streetlights, e.g., LED Cobra Head Streetlight, Double Streetlight, LED Retrofit Streetlight, etc., are bright and efficient that help consumers ensure long-term cost savings and value. Visit Mason’s official website to browse its wide range of outdoor streetlight products.
