Lighting Guide for Swimming Pools

The primary goal of swimming pool lighting is to establish a safe environment. To do this, we should pay attention to the selection of light fixtures and its placements.

Windows allow for natural light to enter pools, and lighting fixtures provide indoor illumination. Some swimming pools employ a blend of both artificial and natural lighting.

Generally, 300 lux light level is sufficient in swimming pools. In case of competitions; 500 lux or more lighting level may be required.

Reflection and glare are caused by lighting fixtures, particularly when the angle at which the light strikes the water's surface is less than 50 degrees. Correct planning must be done during the design process to prevent this issue, along with properly positioning light fixtures directly on the pool. Otherwise, reflection and glare problems are inevitable when lights are mounted on the walls. Reflection and glare are produced when light strikes the water's surface at a lower angle and when this occurs, lifeguards might not notice swimmers in need of help.

Aside from the glare on the surface of swimming pool, light fixtures have the dazzling effect on swimmers which can be uncomfortable and distracting. Dazzling can be prevented by placing light fixtures in proper position. Indirect lighting are the best option to prevent the dazzling. Floodlights can be directed to walls and ceilings to provide glare-free lighting.

Check out a variety of floodlights here

Particularly if the lights are installed near swimming pools, maintenance of the lights can be difficult and expensive. This allows for the evaluation of choices with a long lifespan and low maintenance, such as LED luminaires.

In case of blackouts, emergency lighting system should be used for preservation of safe lighting levels. Otherwise it can be very dangerous for swimmers in case of blackouts.

In addition to general lighting, underwater lighting in the swimming pool can be used to reduce the reflection effect and improve the lighting quality under water. That kind of lighting is also very important to safety.

Swimming pools are wet environments. Lighting fittings that resist corrosion are the best option. Swimming pool lighting fixtures need to have a minimum IP54 protection level. The IP68 protection class should be a minimum requirement for underwater lighting fixtures.

Lastly, keep in mind that areas like the swimming pool can be at risk for loss of life, especially when there is negligence involved in terms of lighting and installation. In order to prevent this, a residual current device must be used as a safety net, because it's better to be safe than sorry, no matter how good your light fixtures are. This unit needs good grounding in order to work properly.