What Is High Bay Lighting?
Quick answer
High bay lights are fixtures mounted high above the floor, usually 20 feet or more. You see them in warehouses, shops, gyms, and manufacturing space. They often run many hours a day, so they are one of the first places to look for savings.
Last checked: September 1, 2026
Where high bays are used
High bays light large open rooms with tall ceilings.
- Warehouse and distribution floors
- Manufacturing and machine shops
- Gyms, arenas, and field houses
- Big-box retail and auto service bays
What to check before you upgrade
Two buildings with the same fixture count can have very different projects.
- Mounting height. Higher ceilings usually mean lift work and more labor.
- Fixture count and the watts printed on the label or ballast.
- Run hours per day, per week, and per year.
- Whether sensors or zone controls could turn lights down in empty aisles.
Why run hours matter more than watts
Savings come from watts saved multiplied by hours. A 12-hour warehouse saves far more than a 4-hour shop with the same fixtures. Count hours carefully, including cleaning crews and second shifts.
Common questions
- What is the difference between high bay and low bay?
- It is about mounting height. Low bay usually means under about 20 feet. High bay means above that. The higher the fixture, the more the beam pattern matters.
- Do I need a rebate approval before buying high bay LEDs?
- Often yes. Many Colorado utility programs want a form before you buy or install equipment. Check the program rules first.
Want help with this project?
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