A frequent question that we receive in the LED tennis lighting world is what's the difference between “lumens” and “footcandles?”
A frequent question that we receive in the LED tennis lighting world is what's the difference between “lumens” and “footcandles?” Some people may find it difficult to distinguish between them or understand why it’s important to do so. Yet having a clear understanding of both terms can be essential in designing an effective lighting plan for your facility.
“Lumens” refers to the amount of light that is being produced by a light fixture.
"Footcandles” refers to a measure of the amount of light on the surface of what is being lit (how much light from the fixture is visible at the surface of what is being measured.)
For example, when an interior space is dark or not well lit, what we’re really responding to is the lack of footcandles, not the lack of lumens. That’s why it’s a good idea to understand the number of footcandles recommended depending on what the area will be used for, and ensure this is a critical part of your decision-making process.
There are a few ways to measure footcandles. One way is to use a “light meter,” a device used to measure how much light hits the surface. For example, Sports Interiors uses a light meter to record before and after light levels for every LED tennis lighting project we conduct. Software applications are another way of measuring footcandles.
If you are considering a change in lighting to your facility, it’s a good idea to measure the current footcandles. That way you’ll know whether you want the same amount of lighting or to make it brighter.
One point to consider is that it can be difficult to drastically increase the number of footcandles in an area while also decreasing the use of energy because one comes at the expense of the other. If you save a lot on the energy, that means you’re using a fixture that does not have much wattage, which won’t produce many lumens, which will mean that there are fewer footcandles.
Yet LED lighting is superior to traditional lighting in that it uses much less energy to produce more illumination.
Both lumens and footcandles are distinct and provide important measurements. But when considering new lighting for your facility, be sure to understand the importance of footcandles for the specific environment. Feel free to contact us to discuss the difference and how Sports Interiors can help your facility!
