Why Do Farms Use Red Lights? The Science of Agricultural Lighting
If you’ve ever driven through the countryside at night and noticed an eerie red glow coming from sheds or barns, don’t worry - it’s not a scene from a sci-fi film. Before the conspiracy theories take hold, we’re here to shed some light on why red, corrosion-proof lighting is becoming a game-changer for farms.
How Does Lighting Affect Farm Animals?
Research has shown that optimum lighting on farms increases milk yield from cows by 6-10% on average, and red light is key to making this practically possible for farmers. It is all about striking the optimal balance between periods of light and dark. A longer day length (as in longer daylight hours) directly affects the concentration of hormones in cows required for increased milk production. The optimum day length is 16 hours at a light intensity between 160Lx and 200Lx.
Too long a day can have a negative effect as without darkness cows cannot regulate their melatonin levels, which are essential to fertility. Therefore, lactating cows must have a daily period of darkness of 8 hours and below 50Lx but greater than 30Lx. If you want to take a deep dive into this topic there’s more information available here.
What are the Benefits of Red Light for Cows?
Red light simulates conditions of darkness for cows. This is hugely beneficial for farmers as red light allows them to conduct business as usual, while still providing optimum lighting for milk production. Youngstock also benefits from the above lighting regime, showing healthier development overall.
Don’t Forget the Benefits of Red Lighting for Farmers!
Implementing red lighting systems for cows on farms offers a cost-effective solution with a rapid return on investment. The installation process is straightforward and does not require additional labour. By regulating cows’ exposure to light, milk production can be enhanced, leading to improved profit margins for dairy operations!
Upgrade LED Corrosion-Proofs with Red Light Functionality
Many of our LED corrosion-proofs are perfect for a red light conversion. SULTAN, HARBOUR and VULCAN offer excellent light uniformity, limited glare, and a 50,000Hrs lifespan. Built to perform in tough environments, each comes with an IP65 rating and durable stainless-steel clips.
Get in contact with our Customised Conversions Department to convert the below luminaries to red light functionality.
SULTAN
SULTAN has no heat filaments or electrodes, making it resistant to shock and vibration, and able to operate reliably in temperatures from -25°C to 40°C.
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Product Name: SULTAN 2X48W 6FT 5000K
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Product Code with Red Light Conversion: RSUF966FT-24RED
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Product Name: SULTAN 2X48W 5FT 5000K
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Product Code with Red Light Conversion: RSUF805FT-24RED
HARBOUR
HARBOUR delivers uniform light with its prismatic opal diffuser and replaces fluorescent fittings 1-for-1, cutting energy use by over 50%.
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Product Name: HARBOUR 80W 5FT TWIN 5000K VERSION 2
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Product Code with Red Light Conversion: RHA80505FTV2-24RED
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Product Name: HARBOUR 58W, 5FT TWIN, 4000K, VERSION 2
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Product Code with Red Light Conversion: RHA58405FTV2-24RED
VULCAN
VULCAN’s flexible design prevents cracking on uneven surfaces and resists failure from vibration caused by temperature changes.
- Product Name: VULCAN 2X40W 5FT 5000K
- Product Code with Red Light Conversion: RVUF805FT-24RED
Help Farmers Upgrade to Red Lighting with Confidence
Electricians – here’s your cue to get involved. By recommending robust, LED fittings like SULTAN, HARBOUR, and VULCAN, you’re not just installing lights: you’re helping farmers make smart investments in their future. Stay ahead of the curve and be the go-to expert for agricultural lighting upgrades.
To find out how our Customised Conversions Department can help you, please contact your local ROBUS Area Sales Manager or our Customised Conversions Department directly:
Tel: +353 1 709 9000 (option 2)
