Choosing outdoor lighting can be confusing, especially when LED Canopy Lights and LED Parking Lot Lights look similar but serve different applications. Canopy lights are ideal for covered, lower-mounted areas, while parking lot lights are designed for wider, open spaces. This guide explains the key differences and helps you choose the right outdoor LED light for your garage, carport, driveway, or yard.
LED Canopy Lights vs Parking Lot Lights: What's the Difference?
The biggest difference between LED canopy lights and LED parking lot lights is where they are designed to be installed and how they distribute light.
What Are LED Canopy Lights?
LED canopy lights are smaller, exterior mounted ceiling lights that direct illumination downwards from the inside or underside of a roof, canopy, overhang or other comparable structure. These are found under gas station canopies, in parking garages, carports, drive through lanes, covered walks and at building entries. Most of the newer LED canopy lights are surface mounted and are made for lower mounted application.
Since the LED canopy light is mounted above where illumination is required, it can send its light downward and to the sides of the area beneath it.
A canopy light works well for a home user for over a garage, carport or covered porch where there is an overhead surface already in place.
What Are LED Parking Lot Lights?
LED parking lot lights are used as outdoor area lights for illuminating large outdoor areas such as parking areas, large driveways, outdoor walkways or other outdoor spaces and areas needing illumination. LED parking lot lights are usually put up in pole mounted fixtures, and may include adjustable brackets, or slip-fit adapters. Areas can also utilize adjustable arms or pole-top luminaires, of course, and pole lighting is generally a preferred look and style. The principal advantage of an LED parking lot light over that of a canopy light fixture is the coverage: instead of merely emitting light downward in a localized area (like directly underneath), these larger fixtures spread light over much of the surrounding landscape.
LED Canopy Lights vs Parking Lot Lights: Key Differences
| Feature | LED Canopy Lights | LED Parking Lot Lights |
| Best location | Garage, carport, covered patio | Driveway, yard, open parking area |
| Typical mounting | Ceiling or surface mount | Pole or arm mount |
| Light direction | Mainly downward | Wide-area distribution |
| Coverage | Small to medium areas | Medium to large areas |
| Mounting height | Lower overhead locations | Higher poles or structures |
| Best application | Covered spaces | Open outdoor spaces |
| Installation | Surface mounting | Pole/arm mounting |
The important point is that brighter does not always mean better.A 100W fixture may produce plenty of light, but if the light is distributed in the wrong direction, you can still end up with dark areas or unnecessary glare.The fixture should match the space first. Wattage comes later.
Which Light Is Better for Your Space?
What is the best light for use in your space?
The best approach to LED canopy light vs LED parking lot light is to begin with the location for installation.
Garage or Carport: Choose an LED Canopy Light
LED garage lighting or lighting for a covered carport will typically be a more practical choice than an LED canopy light.
The canopy fixture is suitable because:
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Can be attached to an overhead surface directly.
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Light is directed toward the floor and surrounding area.
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It does not need a tall lighting pole.
Compact design for use in restricted areas.
Dye can be used to light the surrounding area of parked cars.
Canopy fixture for garages with ceiling or carports with solid overhead structure, for instance, can give direct overhead light without requiring a separate pole.
This is one of the reasons that LED garage canopy lights are a viable investment for those who wish to replace their garage lights that are worn out.
Driveway: Choose an LED Parking Lot Light
The driveway isn't like this.
Most driveways are open which may not provide a ceiling or canopy for mounting a fixture.
This is where a LED driveway parking lot light might make more sense.
A parking lot light mounted on a pole can light:
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The driveway
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Parking spaces
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Walking areas
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Vehicles
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The surrounding yard
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Larger outdoor areas
For those who have a good pole already in place, one of the parking lot fixtures that are adjustable arms or slip fit can also simplify replacement.
Demilare's parking lot fixtures come in adjustable arm or slip fit mounting options, providing the homeowner more flexibility when replacing an existing outdoor light.
Yard or Open Outdoor Area: Consider a Parking Lot Light
Outdoor parking lot lights might offer more coverage in a large backyard, rural property, driveway or open parking lot.
Light distribution is more important as size increases.
Instead of asking:
"What is the number of watts required?"
start by asking:
"In what direction would the light need to shine?"
An area/parking lot light is usually better for providing light to an open space from a pole, than a ceiling-mounted canopy fixture.
Covered Patio or Outdoor Work Area: Choose an LED Canopy Light
Canopy fixture is another good application for a covered patio, workshop entrance or outside work space.
The fixture allows for a direct light without needing a separate pole as it can be installed overhead.
This is particularly helpful when necessary to use light over:
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A workbench
A covered space for parking a car.
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A patio
Outdoor storage area has been provided.
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A covered entrance
The purpose of the area is not just to make it brighter. It's to place the light where it is needed.
Which One Is Brighter?
When it comes to the LED canopy lights vs parking lot lights dilemma, this is one of the most frequent queries.
The answer is: Not either one or the other.
Brightness will be influenced by:
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Lumens
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Wattage
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LED efficiency
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Light distribution
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Mounting height
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Number of fixtures
A high output parking lot light will cover a much greater area of light, for instance, and a canopy light with fewer lumens will make the space beneath it seem brighter.
Which is why it is important to always consider wattage in terms of the specific application.
Lumens let you know the amount of light a fixture will provide. You get Distribution information about the light.
Don't always go for the highest wattage of bright outdoor LED lights, instead consider both specifications.
Which One Is Easier to Install?
Installation is customized to the existing at your property.
Canopy Light Installation
A surface mounted canopy light may be relatively simple for an existing overhead electrical connection in the garage or carport.
The most important factors to take into account are:
Check the surface to be mounted.
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Check the existing electrical connection.
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Check the fixture voltage.
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Fasten the fixture securely.
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Refer to manufacturer's installation guidelines.
The replacement of an existing fixture may be simpler because the position and electricity connection may be available.
Parking Lot Light Installation
Installing LED parking lot lights generally requires more mounting considerations since they may be required to be mounted on a pole or arm.
Before purchasing, check:
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Existing pole diameter
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Mounting style
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Arm compatibility
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Fixture weight
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Wiring
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Voltage
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Fixture adjustment range
Both adjustable arm and slip fit mounting are options at Demilare parking lot lights.
For those who do not feel comfortable with electrical wiring or working at height, it is better to have a licensed electrician or professional installer install it.
Can You Use a Parking Lot Light as a Garage or Canopy Light?
A parking lot light can be physically retrofitted for some odd installation, but it isn't suitable.
The purpose of a pole mounted area light is to be used in an open area from a designated location.
It can cause a number of issues when it is installed directly under a garage or canopy:
The light distribution may not match space
A light fixture that covers a large outdoor area can be too much for a small garage.
Glare may be an issue
The light source might be uncomfortable to look towards because it may be mounted too close to the eye level or in an improper orientation.
You may waste energy
Higher output fixtures are not always the optimal fixture.
Dark spots can still occur
A fixture that is set up incorrectly can cause a lot of light to shine in one direction and then in another direction there is not as much brightness.
In a covered space, a light fixture that has been designed correctly to provide the appropriate LED canopy will be a better starting point.
What to Consider Before Buying an LED Outdoor Light
Before purchasing outdoor LED lighting, spend a few minutes assessing your area.
Mounting Location
Decide on the location of the fixture for its actual use.
Moving up and/or over → canopy light
Pole/arm light → parking lot/area
This basic criterion can weed out numerous bad fits.
Area Size
Estimate the area that you wish to light.
There is a difference between the light needs of a small carport and a long driveway.
Lumens and Wattage
Consider watts and lumen output.
Wattage indicates the amount of electrical energy used by the fixture. The amount of visible light produced is indicated by lumens.
When comparing fixtures, it is important to consider the lumen output and not assume that greater wattage equals greater performance.
Color Temperature
Light's colour temperature influences the colour of the light it represents.
Common choices include:
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3000K — warmer appearance
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4000K — neutral white
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5000K — more subdued daylight colors
People like neutral or cooler white light for their home outdoors and in the driveway, as they give a crisp look to the home.
If in doubt, find a fixture with selectable CCT.
Light Distribution
This can be particularly helpful when making a comparison between canopy lights and parking lot lights.
High lumen fixtures may not perform well in the event that the distribution is not right for your space.
Consider whether you need:
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Downward illumination
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Wide-area coverage
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Longer throw
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More uniform coverage
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Targeted illumination
Voltage and Dimming
Inspect electrical system prior to ordering.
There are commercial and residential applications, and some commercial grade LED fixtures may accept a wider range of input voltage and 0-10V dimming.
Don't just take any fixture for granted, that it is compatible with your existing wiring.
Weather Resistance
Outdoor fixtures are subject to rain, dust, humidity, temperature fluctuations and the environment.
Check for the right IP rating and ensure that the fixture is rated for the specific location.
For instance, there are lots of commercial canopy fixtures that are offered that have IP65 protection for outdoors and wet location applications.
Installation Requirements
Last but not least, think about how it will be placed.
It's possible a canopy light needs an appropriate overhead mounting surface or a parking lot light needs an appropriate pole or mounting arm.
To avoid the return or modification costs if bought, you should check this beforehand.
Quick Decision Guide: Canopy Light or Parking Lot Light?
Still uncertain on which to go for?Follow this easy guide.
Choose an LED Canopy Light If:
You need to light a garage.
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You have a covered carport.
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You need light under an awning.
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You have an overhead mounting surface.
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You want primarily downward illumination.
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You are lighting a covered patio or entrance.
Choose an LED Parking Lot Light If:
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You are lighting an open driveway.
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You need to illuminate a large yard.
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You do have a light pole.
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You require a lot more outdoor areas.
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You are lighting an open parking area.
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A pole mounted fixture outdoors is required.
May I Use Both on the Same Property?
Absolutely.Using various fixtures in different areas, in fact, can give a better lighting solution than attempting to use the same fixture in all areas.
For example:
In addition, the LED Canopy Light is available in your garage
Driveway → LED Parking Lot Light
Side entrance → LED Wall Pack Light
Large backyard → LED Area/Parking Lot Light
The solution allows all the fixtures to work in their intended function.
Don't ask "Which LED light is the best?":
"Which LED light is best for this particular location?"
This change in perspective makes the decision on outdoor lighting much simpler.
Conclusion
The primary reason for choosing an LED canopy light versus an LED parking lot light is largely determined by the area of installation.
An LED canopy light is best suited for garages, carports, covered patios, and any overhanging structures. An LED parking lot light is better suited for driveways, yards, parking areas, and larger open spaces; it is often attached to arms or poles.
Some things to consider are mounting location, coverage area, lumen output, light distribution, CCT, voltage, weather resistance and the requirements for installation, not only wattage or cost.
Are you ready for an upgrade? Choose an LED canopy light for covered locations and for overhead lighting uses, or an LED parking lot light for the more open or larger areas outdoors.
FAQ
⏵ Canopy lights for garages, LED or otherwise?
Yes. LED canopy lights are suitable for use in garages and carports, as they can be mounted over the top and illuminate downwards.
⏵ Can I use an LED parking lot light for my driveway?
Yes. For driveways and other open outdoor spaces, parking lot and area lights are frequently utilized since they can be installed on top of poles or arms for ubiquitous lighting.
⏵What color are the lights on canopies compared to the lights in parking lots?
Not necessarily. Brightness is dependent on lumen output, wattage, efficiency, mounting height and light distribution. The brightness of one fixture is not necessarily greater than the other.
⏵ Can LED canopy lights be used outdoors?
Yes, as long as the particular fixture is rated to be used outdoors. Before installation check the IP rating and location rating of the fixture.
⏵ How many lumens do I need for a driveway?
However, there is no one-size-fits-all number of lumens for a driveway. The output needed will vary based on the driveway size, mounting height, fixture spacing, surrounding conditions and the desired level of illumination.
⏵ Is the LED parking lot light installation project easy to take care of?
The difficulty to install is dependent on mounting systems and electrical set-up. If they are being replaced with similar fixtures and similar wiring and mounting hardware, the process may be simple. The professional installation is recommended for new pole installations or electrical work.
