Best High Bay LED Retrofit Solutions for Warehouses
When upgrading warehouse lighting, choose high bay LED retrofit options that maximize efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. This guide highlights five top choices, detailing who they’re best for and why they stand out. It includes quick comparisons to help you pick the right fit for large spaces, tall ceilings, and demanding environments.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dephen 120W UFO LED Light Bulb | Retrofits with E39 Mogul | High output, motion sensor compatible | Requires ballast removal |
| 120W LED Retrofit Kit, 700W MH/HPS Equivalent | Large area lighting | High efficiency, long life | MeanWell driver, robust build |
| 150W Open Rated High Bay Retrofit Light Bulb, EX39 | Open fixture retrofits | Open-rated design | Check compatibility with fixture type |
| UFO LED High Bay Light 150W (6Pack) | Ventilated spaces, staggered installs | High lumens, adjustable CCT/wattage | Plug-and-play option |
| 10-Pack UFO LED High Bay Light 250W | Bulk warehouse retrofit | Very high output | Non-dimmable |
Dephen 120W UFO LED Light Bulb with E39 Mogul Base Extender
Best for retrofits that use an E39 mogul base and desire motion sensing compatibility. The Dephen bulb emits 18600 lumens at 155 lm/W and is a drop-in replacement for 400 W MH/HPS/HID fixtures, helping to slash energy usage. The design includes an E39 base extender for easy rework in high bay applications by simply removing the ballast. Note: an E26-to-E39 adapter may be needed for some fixtures.
- Best for large, high-ceiling bays that currently use E39 sockets
- Better for spaces where motion sensing can reduce running hours
- Caution: Requires ballast removal and may need an adapter for E26 sockets
120W LED Retrofit Kit, 700W MH/HPS Equivalent
Best for replacing old high-intensity fixtures with a single, robust retrofit kit. This kit delivers 14400 lumens at up to 120 lm/W, replacing 700 W HID/MH/HPS lamps and offering a long lifespan. It uses a MeanWell driver and 3030 LEDs with aluminum cooling for stable performance. Best for facilities seeking a straightforward, high-efficiency upgrade with proven reliability.
- Best for large-area retrofits needing HID/HPS replacement
- Better for facilities prioritizing driver reliability and cooling efficiency
- Caution: May require a compatible mounting setup depending on existing fixtures
150W Open Rated High Bay Retrofit Light Bulb, EX39
Best for installations requiring open-rated compatibility with EX39 fixtures. This LED bulb emphasizes straightforward retrofits and open-rated design for use in spaces that require reliable, broad illumination. The product is designed for high bay environments and offers a solid balance of lumen output and efficiency.
- Best for open fixture retrofits with EX39 base
- Better for spaces that need broad, non-enclosed lighting
- Caution: Verify dimming compatibility if dimming options are desired
UFO LED High Bay Light 150W 6Pack
Best for bulk installations in warehouses or gyms that value high output with a plug-and-play setup. This six-pack provides about 24,000 lumens at 160 lm/W, with IP65 weather resistance for dusty or humid environments. It features a sturdy aluminum construction and a durable driver designed for flicker-free operation. It supports 9-in-1 operation with selectable wattages and CCTs, though dimming requires separate equipment.
- Best for bulk retrofits needing strong, uniform light
- Better for environments where moisture and dust are concerns
- Caution: Not dimmable as shipped; consider dimming options if required
10-Pack UFO LED High Bay Light 250W
Best for large-scale retrofits that require very high output to illuminate expansive spaces. Each 250 W unit provides substantial brightness, with a total of 37,500 lumens per package and a 50,000-hour lifespan. The kit is designed to be non-dimmable and plug-and-play, making it convenient for quick deployment across multiple fixtures. It is ideal for warehouses, gyms, and factory spaces with tall ceilings.
- Best for bulk deployments needing extreme brightness
- Better for spaces where non-dimmable lighting suffices
- Caution: High wattage may necessitate electrical capacity checks
Buying Guide: High Bay LED Retrofit Considerations
- Fixture compatibility: Check socket type (E39/Mogul, EX39) and whether ballast removal is required. Some products include bases or adapters to fit existing hardware.
- Wattage and lumen output: Match to ceiling height and square footage. Higher ceilings and larger areas often benefit from 150–250 W modules with 24,000–37,500+ lumens.
- Color temperature and CRI: Choose 5000K–6500K for bright, daylight-like illumination in workspaces. Higher CRI can improve visual acuity for detailed tasks.
- Efficiency and life expectancy: Look for LM/W efficiency and long lifespans (50,000 hours typical). This reduces replacement frequency and maintenance.
- IP rating and ruggedness: For dusty, humid, or outdoor-adjacent spaces, IP65 or better and IK-rated housings provide durability.
- Driver and dimming options: Consider driver reliability (MeanWell or similar) and whether dimming is needed. 1–10V dimming requires compatible controls.
- Installation and maintenance: Plug-and-play designs and minimal ballast requirements simplify retrofits. Ensure proper mounting and electrical safety compliance.
- Warranty and certification: Confirm UL or DLC listings as applicable to your project requirements and energy incentives.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Do high bay LEDs require different drivers or ballasts? A: Many high bay LEDs are designed to replace HID/MH/HPS fixtures and use integrated drivers. Some require ballast removal and direct-wire installation.
- Q: Is IP65 protection important for warehouse lighting? A: Yes, IP65 helps protect against dust and water exposure, making it suitable for humid or dusty environments.
- Q: Can I mix different high bay lights in the same warehouse? A: It’s common to mix products if they meet similar lumens and color temperature; ensure uniform light distribution and avoid shadows.
- Q: What lumen level should I target for a warehouse? A: Targets vary by space, but many warehouses aim for 20,000–40,000 lumens per fixture depending on ceiling height and work areas.
- Q: Do high bays save more energy than traditional HID lights? A: Yes, high bays typically offer higher efficiency (lm/W) and longer lifespans, reducing energy use and maintenance.
- Q: Are these products suitable for outdoor use? A: Some are IP65-rated and can handle moisture, but verify enclosure protection and weather exposure for outdoor applications.