If you're thinking about installing a light bar on your boat, you might be wondering how to choose the right size for your boat. After all, you don't want to get a light bar that is too big or too small for your boat, or that doesn't fit your needs. Here are some tips on how to choose the right size of light bar for your boat.
Boat light bar size
First, you need to measure the available space on your boat where you want to mount your light bar. You need to consider the length, width, and height of the space, as well as the shape and angle of the surface. You also need to make sure that the light bar won't block your view or interfere with your navigation lights. You can use a tape measure or a ruler to measure the space, or you can use a cardboard template to test the fit. Once you have the measurements you can start shopping for the best boat light bar.
Boat Light bar light output
Second, you need to decide how much light output you need from your light bar. The light output of a light bar is measured in lumens, which is the amount of visible light emitted by a source. The more lumens, the brighter the light. However, more lumens also means more power consumption and more heat generation, which can affect the performance and lifespan of your light bar. You need to balance the brightness and efficiency of your light bar according to your needs. For example, if you only use your light bar for occasional fishing or docking at night, you might not need a very bright light bar. But if you use your light bar for off-shore cruising or emergency situations, you might want a brighter light bar.
Boat light bar beam pattern
Third, you need to consider the beam pattern and color temperature of your light bar. The beam pattern is the shape and direction of the light emitted by your light bar. There are different types of beam patterns, such as spot, flood, combo, or curved. The spot beam pattern produces a narrow and focused beam of light that can reach far distances. The flood beam pattern produces a wide and diffuse beam of light that can illuminate a large area. The combo beam pattern combines both spot and flood beams in one light bar. The curved beam pattern follows the contour of your boat and provides a wider coverage. You need to choose the beam pattern that suits your needs and preferences. For example, if you want to see far ahead of your boat, you might want a spot beam pattern or combination beam pattern. But if you want to see around your boat, you might want a flood beam or wide-angle scene beam pattern.
The color temperature is the hue or tone of the white light emitted by your light bar. It is measured in kelvins (K), which is a unit of temperature. The lower the kelvins, the warmer or yellower the light. The higher the kelvins, the cooler or bluer the light. The color temperature can affect the visibility and comfort of your eyes. For example, a warm white light (around 3000K) can be more comfortable and relaxing for your eyes, but it can also reduce the contrast and clarity of objects in the dark. A cool white light (around 6000K) can be more bright and crisp for your eyes, but it can also cause glare and eye strain. You need to choose the color temperature that works best for you and your environment.
Summary
So, how do you choose the right size of light bar for your boat? You need to measure the available space on your boat, decide how much light output you need, and consider the beam pattern and color temperature of your light bar. By following these tips, you can find the perfect light bar for your boat.
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