Lighting in extreme temperature environments: The highs and the lows

This paper discusses the effects of ambient temperature on lamps and lighting fixtures. Lamps and lighting systems are designed for an ambient temperature of 25°C. Both colder and higher temperatures can affect the performance of a fixture. In extremely cold temperatures, lamp starting capability and fixture efficacy can be negatively impacted and the choice of lighting systems decreases with the temperature. In high ambient conditions, the life of both lamp and control gear can be significantly reduced, along with decreases in lumen output performance. The lighting systems discussed include metal halide, high pressure sodium (SON), fluorescent, incandescent, induction and LED. Each has different challenges with extreme temperatures.