How bright does a car park have to be?
For multi-storey and underground car parks, DIN EN 12464-1 states typical maintained values:
| Area | Typical maintained value |
|---|---|
| Traffic routes | 75 lx |
| Parking areas | 75 lx |
| Entrances and exits during the day | 300 lx |
| Entrances and exits at night | 75 lx |
| Pay desks and pay machines | 300 lx |
The higher values at entrances and exits during the day help the eyes adjust when moving from bright daylight into the car park. In addition, the garage ordinances of the German states set requirements for lighting and – in larger car parks – for safety lighting. More on this in the guide Emergency lighting.
Presence sensors: the biggest savings potential
A car park is rarely full, least of all at night. Presence or motion detectors dim areas without vehicles and pedestrians to a base level and raise the light as soon as someone arrives. The base light ensures that nobody has to drive or walk into a dark area.
- Sensors along the traffic routes so that the light comes up ahead of the vehicle
- Run-on times set so that pedestrians are accompanied to the exit
- Stairwells and entrances as their own zone
Which luminaires are suitable?
Moisture, condensation, exhaust fumes, road salt and the occasional knock call for rugged luminaires with a high protection rating and good impact resistance. Typical solutions:
- Weatherproof luminaires as complete fittings, for example the Series 98 with up to 179 lm/W
- LED modules for existing batten luminaires, for example the Series 08 T8 LED module – the fitting stays
- Retrofit kits for existing luminaires, for example Series 15
From practice: 2,830 luminaires kept in service
Im Furniture store car park 2,830 relatively new T8 fittings were installed. Instead of scrapping them, they were modernised with Series 08 LED modules and new drivers. The result: 68 % less lighting energy, less maintenance and a payback in 19 months.
ConsultationLet's talk about your project.Lighting calculation and quotation from the manufacturer.Designing a feeling of safety
Besides illuminance, bright walls and ceilings, well-lit entrances, payment areas and signage all contribute to a feeling of safety. Dark corners and flickering luminaires have the opposite effect – one more reason to replace old fluorescent lamps.
Frequently asked questions
How many lux does an underground car park need?
DIN EN 12464-1 typically states 75 lx for traffic routes and parking areas and 300 lx for entrances and exits during the day. The garage ordinances of the German states may add further requirements.
Are motion detectors worthwhile in a car park?
Usually yes, because many areas are empty most of the time. Sensors then dim to a base level and raise the light when movement is detected.
Can I keep the existing car park luminaires?
Often yes. In a furniture store car park, 2,830 T8 fittings were modernised with Series 08 LED modules – with 68 % less lighting energy.
Does a car park need emergency lighting?
Under the garage ordinances of the German states, larger car parks generally require safety lighting. The exact requirements depend on size and construction.
