Best Flagpole Light: Flag Lighting Can Be Easy and Low Maintenance

Flag lighting is easy, low maintenance, and looks great if approached with a little forethought. Customer satisfaction with a flag light often hinges on its brightness and quality. This article will review what you should consider when lighting a flag. First, you need to answer a few questions.

• How tall is your flag pole?
• How far away can the light fixtures be placed from the flag pole?
• Will the flag lighting be used occasionally or every evening?
• Will the flag lighting be hit by irrigation system water, snow, or heavy rain?
• Will the light fixtures be hit by debris from mowers or weed whackers?

How Much Light is Needed to Properly Illuminate a Flag?

The amount of light required for flag lighting varies depending on the ambient light around the flag. A flag located in a rural area will stand out against a dark sky using less light than a flag in an urban area with lots of other light. An outdoor flagpole solar light, specifically designed for illuminating flags during nighttime hours, can be an excellent solution. The flag in the urban area will need more light to make the flag stand out against the night sky.

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How Many Light Fixtures Are Needed for Flag Lighting? 

Proper flag lighting typically requires a light kit designed for illuminating flagpoles, which usually includes two or three light fixtures. Only one light fixture will be directional and could cause dark shadows on the flag depending on the direction the flag is waving. Two or three light fixtures provide light from multiple directions, reducing or eliminating shadows from the flagpole. Light emitted from three directions will eliminate flagpole shadows.

How Many Lumens and What Beam Spread Are Needed for Flag Lighting?

The lumens required to light a flag depend on the setting, rural or urban, the height of the pole, and the size of the flag. A flagpole solar light, fully manufactured in the U.S.A., is an essential product for illuminating American flags and ensuring compliance with the U.S. Flag code, which mandates proper illumination for flags displayed at night. Pole height is typically 3 to 4 times the length of the flag. A 6’ flag would be appropriately mounted on a 20’ to 24’ tall flagpole. The flag size also determines the diameter of an extended flag in any direction and the pole height. A 6’ flag would extend 6’ in any direction, thus you need to illuminate a 12’ diameter. You may use the data below as a guide. For commercial applications, you may want to speak with an Access Fixtures lighting specialist.

• 15ʹ flag poles – 1500 to 2500 lumens and a 20° beam spread
• 20ʹ flag poles –  7,000 to 10,000 lumens and a 20° beam spread
• 25ʹ poles require a spot beam spread (35˚-60˚) and 10,800-27,400 lumens

What is the Best LED or Solar Flagpole Light for Flagpole Lighting?

Without a doubt the best LED light fixture for flagpole lighting is the APTA. Why? The most frequent reason that sign lighting and flag lighting fails, is the glass lens breaks or the plastic lens cracks. Water infiltrates the electronics and the fixture fails. APTAs do not have any glass and the LEDs are protected by metal cladding. APTA is built out of die cast aluminum for maximum durability for impact from anything. Also, APTA features built-to-order optics for the most appropriate optics for your application. Click HERE for the APTA spec sheet.

In addition to traditional LED fixtures, solar lighting offers an eco-friendly and efficient solution for illuminating flags, especially in areas without easy access to electricity. These all-in-one systems include solar panels and batteries, making them ideal for residential and commercial settings while promoting sustainability and ease of installation.

• Vandal Resistant – Cast aluminum frame, die cast aluminum slip fitter mount and metal cladding over the LEDs to minimize vandalism.
• EXTREME LIFE – LEDs are rated L70 @ 200,000 hours meaning virtually no maintenance. If maintenance were ever to be required, parts are available and are field replaceable.
• IP67 Rated – Submersible rated for protection against water damage. If it is hit by a stream of water such as that from a hose or  irrigation system, APTA will not be affected.

How Close or Far Should the LED Fixtures be Installed From the Flagpole? 

While there are no hard and fast rules, typically the two LED flag lights would be mounted at a minimum of half the length of the flag away from the pole and as far as a flag length away from the flagpole. Customers have noted that this setup fits their flag pole perfectly, enhancing the visual appeal and ease of installation. Check out the pdf on the right for an example featuring a 29’ pole.

Choosing the Right Solar Flagpole Light

When it comes to selecting the perfect solar flagpole light, there are several key factors to consider to ensure your flag is properly illuminated throughout the night. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind:

Key Considerations for Solar Flagpole Lights

1. Brightness: Ensure the solar flagpole light has a high lumens rating to provide sufficient illumination for your flag. The brighter the light, the more visible your flag will be during dark hours.
2. Solar Panel Efficiency: Opt for a light with high-efficiency solar panels. This maximizes energy harvesting and minimizes charging time, ensuring your flagpole light is always ready to shine.
3. Battery Life: Look for a solar flagpole light with a long-lasting battery. A robust battery ensures the light can power through the entire night, keeping your flag properly illuminated.
4. Durability: Choose a light made from durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind. This ensures longevity and reduces maintenance needs.
5. Adjustability: Select a light with adjustable arms or brackets. This feature allows you to position the light to perfectly illuminate your flag, regardless of the flagpole’s height or the flag’s size.
6. Compliance: Make sure the light complies with the American Flag Code. Proper illumination of the American flag during dark hours is not just about aesthetics; it’s about respecting the flag code and doing your flag justice.