What Beam Angles Should You Use for Low Voltage Outdoor Spotlights?

Outdoor lighting isn't only about selecting the right type of bulb or fixture; it's more than that. One of the primary factors that you must consider is beam angle. Whether you want to highlight a garden pathway with soft light or focus on an architectural feature, beam angle helps you achieve the desired effect. If you are wondering what the different beam angles for low voltage outdoor spotlights are and how to choose the right one, keep on reading!

What is Beam Angle?

Typically, beam angle refers to the light emitted from a source like spotlights. It's measured in degrees and decides how narrow or wide the light will spread. For instance, if the beam angle is small or narrow, the light spread will also be small and highly focused. On the other hand, if the beam angle is large, the light will be more diffused.

Different Beam Angles for Low Voltage Outdoor Spotlights

Spotlights are a type of directional landscape lighting that projects a narrow beam of light onto an object in your garden or pathway. Compared to floodlights that illuminate large areas and have beam angles ranging from 60° to 120°, spotlights are more focused and have a narrow beam angle ranging from 10° to 60°.

Here's a detailed overview of the beam angles of low voltage outdoor spotlights:

10° to 40° Beam Angle

The 10° to 40° beam angle is quite narrow; thus, it is ideal for accent lighting or highlighting different features in your landscape. For instance, you can use spotlights with this beam angle range to focus on statues, water bodies like fountains, or other architectural elements. They create a dramatic effect and draw attention to a particular area without spilling light into the surroundings.

40° to 60° Beam Angle

The 40° to 60° beam angle offers a wide spread of light while still maintaining a level of focus. These spotlights are suitable for illuminating medium-sized objects in your garden, whether it's a tree or an entryway. They offer a soft and well-defined glow, adding depth to your landscape and enhancing overall aesthetics.

How to Calculate Beam Angles for Low Voltage Outdoor Spotlights?

Now that you are aware of the different types of beam angles for outdoor spotlights, let's discuss how you can calculate the beam angle for a lighting fixture:

Formula to Calculate the Beam Angle of Outdoor Spotlights

Angle = 2 * Tan-1 (Beam Spread / Light Distance)

Here, beam spread is the diameter of the light spread at a particular distance from the source. While light distance is the distance from the light source to the surface where you are measuring the beam spread.

How to Choose the Right Beam Angles for Low Voltage Outdoor Spotlights?

To choose the right beam angles for low voltage outdoor spotlights, you need to consider several factors, such as:

• Purpose of Lighting: Firstly, you should consider the purpose of lighting. For instance, if you want to illuminate intricate art pieces in the landscape or other architectural structures like a garden fountain, you need to opt for a narrow beam angle. However, if you just want to enhance visibility and need general lighting, then a wide beam angle for low voltage outdoor spotlights is perfect.

• Light Placement and Mounting Height: Where you place your spotlight also impacts the beam angle you need to achieve your lighting goals. Let's say if the light is high up, like on a pole, you need a wider beam angle (30° to 60°) to focus on the objects. But in case the spotlight is placed near the ground, then a narrow beam angle (10° to 20°) is sufficient to highlight your decorations and other details.

Other than that, you should look around to see what's nearby. If your outdoors is filled with trees or other structures blocking the view of your spotlight, you should opt for a wide beam angle, ensuring the light reaches exactly where it's needed.

Importance of Choosing the Right Beam Angles for Low Voltage Outdoor Spotlights

It's important to know about the beam angles of low voltage outdoor spotlights as they impact the aesthetics of your landscape and overall energy efficiency. Here's a detailed explanation:

• Enhanced Aesthetics: The beam angle of your spotlight can make or break the vibe of your landscape. If you get it right the first time, you will have an amazing brightness in the outdoors that not only highlights your unique collection of plants and sculptures but also makes the overall space look well-lit and inviting.

• Better Energy Efficiency: An optimized beam angle ensures that the light is focused on where you actually need it. There are no unnecessary light spills, which reduces the total number of fixtures you require to Illuminate the space, automatically lowering your energy bills by a whopping 30%

• Reduced Glare: If you love to spend time outdoors, whether reading a book or playing with your kids, you must ensure that all spotlights have the right beam angle. Doing so minimizes glare and eye strain, so you and your loved ones have quality time without worrying about harsh reflections disturbing your vision.

FAQs

What is NEMA classification, and how does it impact beam angle?

The NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) has come up with a classification system for beam angles known as NEMA beam types. It has seven different categories (Type I to Type VII) and allows you to choose the right type of spotlight for your landscape based on their beam spread patterns.

Can I change the beam angle of the spotlights?

Yes, it's possible to change or adjust the beam angle of spotlights. For instance, some fixtures let you change the beam by rotating the lens and adding reflectors. However, it is suggested to consult the manufacturer whether this feature is available or not before making an investment.

What is the beam angle to illuminate a pathway?

To illuminate a pathway, a spotlight with a beam angle of 30° to 60° is ideal. It offers a soft and wide yet well-defined glow that paves the way for increased aesthetics and better exploration.

Conclusion

The right beam angles for low voltage outdoor spotlights depend upon the area or object you want to illuminate. Looking to get some high-quality spotlights for your landscape? Gardenreet has your back. We offer durable and budget-friendly solar lights as well as brass lights with varying beam angles. Don't wait; contact us today to find the perfect lighting solution for your place!