Lighting Foot Candle Calculator For Parking Lot

Lighting Foot Candle Formula:

\[ FC = \frac{(Fixtures \times Lumens\ per\ Fixture \times LLF)}{Area} \]

Fixtures (count):

count

Lumens per Fixture (lm):

LLF (light loss factor):

factor

Area (ft²):

ft²

Foot Candle (FC):

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1. What is the Lighting Foot Candle Calculation?

The Lighting Foot Candle calculation determines the illuminance level in a parking lot by considering the number of fixtures, lumens per fixture, light loss factor, and area. It provides an accurate assessment of lighting adequacy for safety and visibility.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Foot Candle formula:

\[ FC = \frac{(Fixtures \times Lumens\ per\ Fixture \times LLF)}{Area} \]

Where:

\( Fixtures \) — Number of light fixtures (count)
\( Lumens\ per\ Fixture \) — Light output per fixture (lm)
\( LLF \) — Light Loss Factor (dimensionless, 0-1)
\( Area \) — Area to be illuminated (ft²)

Explanation: The equation calculates the illuminance level by considering total luminous flux and accounting for light loss factors over the specified area.

3. Importance of Foot Candle Calculation

Details: Accurate foot candle calculation is crucial for designing adequate parking lot lighting, ensuring safety, security, and compliance with lighting standards and regulations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of fixtures, lumens per fixture, light loss factor (typically 0.5-0.9), and area in square feet. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical foot candle requirement for parking lots?
A: Most parking lots require 2-5 foot candles for adequate illumination, though specific requirements may vary by local regulations and usage patterns.

Q2: What factors affect the light loss factor (LLF)?
A: LLF accounts for lumen depreciation, fixture dirt accumulation, ambient temperature, and voltage variations over time.

Q3: How often should parking lot lighting be recalculated?
A: Lighting calculations should be reviewed whenever fixtures are replaced, when maintenance schedules change, or if lighting requirements are updated.

Q4: Are there different requirements for different areas of parking lots?
A: Yes, entrance areas, pedestrian walkways, and vehicle traffic lanes may have different illumination requirements than general parking areas.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for indoor lighting?
A: While the basic formula applies, indoor lighting calculations may require additional factors such as room reflectance and fixture distribution patterns.