LED Bulkhead Light Buyer’s Guide

When our customers need a robust lighting solution to illuminate an outdoor space, ceilings, or wall, we often recommend LED Bulkhead Lights. 

These fixtures are especially durable and reliable, making them ideal for workplaces or outdoor settings. Paired with one of our LED Gear Trays means these bulkhead lights can operate for years with zero maintenance required. 

If you’re wondering about the different types of bulkheads there are, and which one you should buy, keep reading and we’ll walk through finding the ideal light for your situation.

LED Bulkhead Buying Considerations

Although they appear to be very simplistic in design, LED bulkheads actually come in many different variants. Some are very simple and just meant to be used outdoors without further complications, whereas others have sensors and other technologies built into them. 

There are also different wattages and form factors that you should consider now that you’re shopping for an LED bulkhead for your home or business. Here’s some key data to help you make the right choice. 

LED Bulkhead Features

For most intents and purposes, there are four main LED bulkhead types you should consider: 

• Standard: These are the most simple variants. These LED bulkheads can either be turned on or off, but have no special sensors or a backup battery.
• Microwave Sensor: These are great for saving power and effort, as they have a sensor inside that can be configured to detect movement and deactivate when there’s no one around. 
• Emergency: These are great for unforeseen circumstances, such as blackouts, as they have a built-in backup battery that can typically run for about 3 hours. Naturally, the light produced when in Emergency mode is considerably dimmer, but still enough to allow for proper visibility. The battery recharges using mains power.
• Sensor & Emergency: The best all-around. This LED bulkhead type has both a motion sensor and an emergency backup battery.

If you’re looking for a lighting solution with no extra bells and whistles, products like our Ecobrite 15-watt LED 2D Standard Ceiling Drum Bulkhead, which offers a Lumen output of 1400lm, a 120-degree beam angle, a colour temperature of 4500K are ideal. 

This LED bulkhead has an estimated lifespan of over 35,000 hours and comes with a 4-year warranty and a 28-Day Money-Back Guarantee. Normally, fluorescent lighting solutions only last between 7,000 and 15,000 before they need to be replaced—that’s less than half an LED light, and we’re talking about a best-case scenario. 

Wattage

LED bulkheads will always be more efficient than fluorescent lightbulb solutions, there’s no argument there. However, what’s the difference between the most common wattages available (8W/15W/18W)?

The answer lies with the area you’re trying to light. Typically, the lower the wattage of an LED light, the dimmer the light it produces. If you’re looking to light a small outdoor shed or something of the sort, then an 8-watt model will do the job perfectly fine. 

On the other hand, if you want more lighting power for a larger area, products like our EcoBrite 15-watt LED 2D Standard Polo Bulkhead is a great option. This light can be adjusted to a colour temperature of 3000K, 4000K, and 6000K while producing a Lumen output of 1400lm.

And if you’re looking for maximum power to light larger areas, then you’ll want to go with an 18-watt model. 

Form Factors

Another essential thing to consider when it comes to buying an LED bulkhead is the design you’re looking for. We offer 3 different form factors, which are typically the most used in most applications and industries: Drum, Polo, and Slimline. 

Drum and POLO are very similar, except that the former are typically bulkier than the latter. The Slimline variant is also part of the POLO family, but it offers a more compact design that’s ideal for tighter spaces and easier concealment. 

IP65 Rating

As mentioned earlier, bulkheads are made to be durable. In fact, most LED bulkheads have an IP65 rating, which establishes that a bulkhead is designed to be hermetic, being able to withstand dust and splashed water. 

Where Does the Bulkhead Name Come From?

Originally, the term for these lighting solutions came from their original application—illuminating ships. Their design allowed them to be mounted on ships’ walls to provide a clearer view of the deck and other areas. 

And since they were meant to be constantly splashed with water while withstanding the salty, corrosive sea breeze, there should be no doubt regarding their durability and weatherproofing. 

Nowadays, it’s clear that bulkheads have found their home in many other non-maritime applications, and the versatility of the LED versions makes them ideal for most people who want a simple lighting solution that requires little to no maintenance. 

Which LED Bulkhead Should You Go For?

At the end of the day, it really depends on your needs, the size of the room you want to light, and why you’re looking into buying an LED bulkhead in general. We recommend opting for an LED bulkhead over a fluorescent lightbulb one, as you’ll be saving considerable time in replacements and repairs. 

Not to mention that you’ll be reducing the risks of accidental burns from someone inadvertently touching the casing while enjoying a nice outdoor patio brunch. 

If you have any questions regarding our products, please do not hesitate to email us at enquiries@ledsave.co.uk, or give us a ring at 01652 638840. We’re open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Please check out our contact page for more information.