Poultry House Lighting: Types, Placement, and Energy Efficiency

By Dr. Zubair Khalid, DVM, MS, PhD · 2026-08-14

Key Takeaways

• Optimal Light Intensity and Photoperiod: Broilers require 1-2 foot-candles (10-20 lux) for most of their growth, with higher intensity for the initial days to aid feed/water location, while laying hens need 1-3 foot-candles (10-30 lux) at feed/water lines and a consistent 14-16 hour photoperiod for sustained egg production. Pullets must not be exposed to increasing day length before 16 weeks to prevent premature sexual maturity.
• LED Technology Superiority: Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs are the most energy-efficient option, consuming 50-75% less electricity than incandescent bulbs and offering a lifespan of 25,000-50,000 hours, leading to rapid payback periods often under two years.
• Strategic Light Placement and Uniformity: Mounting lights 6-8 feet above the litter line and spacing fixtures to ensure overlapping light patterns (1.5-2 times mounting height) is crucial for even coverage, minimizing shadows, and preventing behavioral issues like crowding or huddling.
• Impact of Light Color and Dimming: Warm white (2700K-3000K) or neutral white (3500K-4000K) light is generally suitable, with blue and red light offering calming effects and potentially reducing pecking; dimmable LEDs are essential for simulating dawn/dusk and avoiding stress from sudden light changes.
• Energy Efficiency and Backup Systems: Switching to LEDs can halve lighting energy costs, with dimming further reducing consumption; a reliable emergency backup generator and spare bulbs are critical to prevent smothering and production losses during power outages.

Lighting is one of the most influential management tools in poultry production. It affects feed intake, growth rate, egg production, and bird behavior. Getting the lighting program right can improve flock performance and reduce costs. This guide covers the types of lighting available for poultry houses, how to place lights for even coverage, and how to design an energy efficient system. It is written for small scale farmers, commercial producers, and anyone who manages a chicken coop or poultry house.

At a Glance

• Light intensity: Broilers need 1 to 2 foot-candles (10 to 20 lux) for most of the grow-out period. Layers need 1 to 3 foot-candles (10 to 30 lux) at the feed and water lines.
• Photoperiod: Pullets should not be exposed to increasing day length before 16 weeks. Layers need 14 to 16 hours of light per day for consistent egg production.
• Light color: Warm white (2700K to 3000K) or neutral white (3500K to 4000K) works well for most poultry. Blue light calms birds and reduces pecking. Red light can reduce feather pecking and cannibalism.
• Best bulb type: LED lights for poultry are the most energy efficient option. They last 25,000 to 50,000 hours and use 50 to 75 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
• Placement: Mount lights 6 to 8 feet above the litter line. Space fixtures so light overlaps evenly and shadows are minimized.
• Dimming: Use dimmable LED bulbs with a compatible dimmer. Sudden light changes cause stress and panic in birds.
• Energy savings: Switching from incandescent to LED can cut lighting energy use by more than half. Payback is often under two years.
• Emergency backup: Have a backup generator and spare bulbs. A sudden blackout can cause smothering and a sharp drop in egg production.

Why Lighting Matters in Poultry Production

Poultry are highly sensitive to light. Their eyes are different from mammalian eyes. Birds can see ultraviolet light, and they perceive flicker at a higher rate than humans. This means lighting choices affect more than just visibility. Light drives the biological clock. It tells birds when to eat, when to rest, and when to reproduce.

Light and the Bird's Body

The retina of a chicken sends signals to the pineal gland and the hypothalamus. These areas control hormone release. Melatonin is produced in darkness and helps regulate sleep and immune function. When light hits the retina, melatonin production drops. This shift influences activity levels and feed intake.

Light also penetrates the skull of young birds. This is called extraretinal photoreception. Even blind birds can respond to light through the skull. This matters for placement and intensity decisions. Light that reaches the brain directly can stimulate growth and reproduction.

Effects on Feed Intake and Growth

Broilers eat when light is available. Longer photoperiods give birds more time to access feed. However, continuous light leads to poor feed conversion and leg problems. Most broiler programs use 18 to 23 hours of light with 1 to 6 hours of darkness. The dark period allows birds to rest and reduces metabolic disorders.

Light intensity also affects activity. High intensity light makes birds more active. Active birds burn more calories and convert feed less efficiently. Low intensity light keeps birds calm. This is why many broiler producers dim lights during the grow-out period.

Effects on Egg Production

Layers need a minimum day length to maintain egg production. The reproductive system of a hen is triggered by increasing or sustained day length. A photoperiod of 14 to 16 hours is standard for laying flocks. Shorter days signal the hen to reduce or stop laying.

The timing of light stimulation is critical. Pullets should not be exposed to increasing day length before they are physically mature. Early light stimulation causes hens to come into production too soon. This leads to small eggs, prolapse, and poor persistency of lay.

Effects on Behavior

Light influences social behavior in flocks. Bright light increases activity and can trigger aggressive pecking. Dim light reduces activity and calms birds. Red light has been shown to reduce feather pecking and cannibalism in some studies. Blue light also has a calming effect. Green light stimulates growth in broilers.

Understanding these effects helps you make better lighting decisions. The goal is not just to provide light. The goal is to provide the right amount, color, and pattern of light for the specific production goal.

Types of Poultry House Lighting

Several types of bulbs and fixtures are available for poultry houses. Each has strengths and weaknesses. Your choice depends on the size of your operation, your budget, and your production goals.

Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs are the traditional choice for poultry houses. They produce a warm light that is easy to dim. The initial cost is low. However, they are very inefficient. About 90 percent of the energy they use is released as heat, not light. They also have a short lifespan of about 750 to 1,000 hours.

Incandescent bulbs are being phased out in many countries due to energy standards. Replacement bulbs are getting harder to find. If you still use them, expect high electricity bills and frequent bulb changes.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)

CFLs use about 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs. They last 8,000 to 10,000 hours. They come in a range of color temperatures. The main drawback is dimming. Many CFLs do not dim well. Those that are dimmable cost more and still may flicker at low settings.

CFLs contain a small amount of mercury. This creates a disposal issue. Broken bulbs release mercury vapor, which is a health hazard. In a poultry house where bulbs can be knocked by birds or equipment, this is a real concern.

Linear Fluorescent Tubes

Linear fluorescent tubes are common in commercial poultry houses. They provide even light over a long area. They are more efficient than incandescent bulbs and last 10,000 to 20,000 hours. They come in standard lengths of 4 and 8 feet.

The main issues with fluorescent tubes are flicker and cold weather performance. Older magnetic ballasts cause visible flicker that can stress birds. Electronic ballasts reduce flicker but are not flicker free. In cold poultry houses, fluorescent tubes may be slow to start and produce less light.

LED Lights for Poultry

LED lights for poultry are now the standard recommendation. They are the most energy efficient option available. They use 50 to 75 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs. They last 25,000 to 50,000 hours, which means years of service in a poultry house.

LEDs are available in a range of color temperatures, from warm white to cool white. They also come in specific colors like red, blue, and green. This allows you to tailor the light spectrum to your production goals.

Modern LED poultry lights are designed for the farm environment. They are sealed against dust and moisture. They are shatter resistant. Many are dimmable down to 1 percent output. This is important for dawn and dusk simulation.

The initial cost of LED lights is higher than other options. However, the payback period is usually short. Most producers recover the cost through energy savings within one to two years.

High Pressure Sodium (HPS) Lights

High pressure sodium lights are sometimes used in large layer houses. They produce a yellow orange light that is very efficient. They last about 24,000 hours. However, they have several drawbacks for poultry.

HPS lights cannot be dimmed easily. They have a slow warm up time. The color spectrum is poor for bird vision. They also produce a lot of heat. For these reasons, most producers are replacing HPS lights with LEDs.

Solar Lighting Systems

Solar powered lighting is an option for remote poultry houses or areas with unreliable electricity. A solar system includes panels, a battery bank, a charge controller, and LED lights. The initial cost is significant. However, it eliminates ongoing electricity costs for lighting.

Solar systems work best in areas with high sun exposure. They require regular maintenance of the panels and batteries. For most producers, a grid connected system with LED lights is more cost effective.

Light Color and Spectrum

The color of light affects poultry in different ways. Birds see light differently than humans. They are sensitive to ultraviolet light and have four types of cone cells in their retinas. This means color choices matter more than you might think.

Warm White vs Cool White

Warm white light (2700K to 3000K) has a reddish tint. It is calming for birds. Cool white light (5000K to 6500K) has a blue tint. It stimulates activity and growth. Neutral white (3500K to 4000K) is a middle ground.

For broilers, some producers use cool white light early in the grow-out to encourage feed intake. They switch to warm white later to reduce activity and improve feed conversion. For layers, warm white or neutral white is commonly used.

Colored Light Research

Research has shown specific effects of colored light on poultry. Red light reduces feather pecking and cannibalism. It also appears to calm birds. Blue light has a similar calming effect and can reduce activity. Green light stimulates growth in broilers. It is often used in the early growth phase.

Some LED lighting systems allow you to switch colors at different stages of production. This is called spectral tuning. It is a newer feature and adds cost. For most producers, a single good quality warm white LED is sufficient.

Ultraviolet Light

Birds can see ultraviolet light. Natural sunlight contains UV. Most artificial lights do not. Some research suggests that UV light improves bird welfare and bone strength. However, adding UV lights to a poultry house is not common practice. Standard LED lights are sufficient for most operations.

Light Intensity Requirements

Light intensity is measured in foot-candles or lux. One foot-candle equals about 10.76 lux. The intensity you need depends on the type of bird and the stage of production.

Broiler Light Intensity

Broilers do not need bright light. High intensity light makes them active and nervous. This increases energy use and reduces feed conversion. It can also lead to leg problems and heart issues.

The standard recommendation for broilers is 1 to 2 foot-candles (10 to 20 lux) during most of the grow-out. Some producers start at higher intensity for the first few days to help chicks find feed and water. They reduce to 1 foot-candle or less after the first week.

For the first 3 to 7 days, use 2 to 4 foot-candles (20 to 40 lux). This helps chicks locate feed and water. After day 7, reduce to 1 to 2 foot-candles. In the final week, some producers reduce to 0.5 foot-candles to calm the birds before processing.

Layer Light Intensity

Layers need slightly higher light intensity than broilers. The recommendation is 1 to 3 foot-candles (10 to 30 lux) at the feed and water lines. This is enough for hens to see their feed clearly and for workers to inspect the flock.

Light intensity should be measured at bird head height, not at the floor. This is typically 18 to 24 inches above the litter or slats. Use a light meter to check intensity at multiple points across the house.

Breeder Light Intensity

Breeders are often kept at higher light intensity than broilers or commercial layers. The recommendation is 3 to 5 foot-candles (30 to 50 lux). This helps stimulate reproductive behavior and allows workers to see birds clearly for management tasks.

Measuring Light Intensity

You need a light meter to measure intensity accurately. Handheld light meters are available for under 50 dollars. Some smartphone apps can measure light, but they are less accurate. For critical decisions, use a dedicated light meter.

Measure light at bird level in several locations. Take readings at the feed lines, water lines, and the center of the house. Also check the corners and edges. Light levels should be fairly uniform across the house. The ratio of highest to lowest reading should not exceed 2 to 1.

Photoperiod Design

Photoperiod is the length of light exposure in a 24 hour period. It is one of the most powerful management tools in poultry production. The right photoperiod stimulates growth and egg production. The wrong photoperiod causes problems.

Broiler Photoperiod

Broilers are typically kept on a near continuous light schedule. Common programs include 23 hours of light and 1 hour of dark, or 18 hours of light and 6 hours of dark. The dark period allows birds to rest and reduces metabolic disorders.

Research shows that 18 hours of light and 6 hours of dark can improve feed conversion compared to 23 hours of light. The longer dark period allows birds to establish a normal sleep pattern. It also reduces sudden death syndrome and leg problems.

Some producers use an intermittent lighting program. This involves alternating periods of light and dark throughout the day. For example, 1 hour of light followed by 3 hours of dark, repeated six times. Intermittent lighting can improve feed conversion but requires more complex control systems.

Layer Photoperiod

Layers need 14 to 16 hours of light per day. The exact duration depends on the age of the flock and the time of year. In the northern hemisphere, day length increases from December to June. This natural increase can trigger egg production in pullets.

The key rule for layers is never decrease day length during the laying period. Decreasing day length signals hens to reduce egg production. If you are using natural light, you may need to add artificial light to maintain a consistent photoperiod.

Pullet Photoperiod

Pullets are more sensitive to photoperiod than any other class of poultry. The rule is simple: never expose pullets to increasing day length before 16 weeks of age. Increasing day length triggers sexual maturity. If this happens too early, pullets come into production before they are physically mature.

For pullets, hold day length constant or decreasing until 16 to 20 weeks. Then increase day length by 15 to 30 minutes per week until you reach 14 to 16 hours. This gradual increase stimulates a smooth onset of egg production.

Step Up and Step Down Programs

Many commercial producers use step up or step down lighting programs. A step up program gradually increases day length over several weeks. A step down program gradually decreases day length. These programs are designed to control the onset of sexual maturity in pullets.

The specific program you use depends on your housing type and the time of year. If you house pullets in light controlled houses, you have full control over photoperiod. If you use open sided houses, you must work with natural day length.

Light Placement in Chicken Coop

Proper light placement ensures even coverage and avoids dark spots. Poor placement leads to uneven growth, reduced egg production, and behavioral problems.

Mounting Height

Mount lights 6 to 8 feet above the litter line. This height provides good coverage while keeping lights out of reach of birds and equipment. In houses with high ceilings, you may need to lower lights using chains or cables.

For broiler houses, mounting lights at 6 to 7 feet is common. This allows you to achieve the low light intensities needed for broilers. For layer houses, 7 to 8 feet is typical. Lights mounted higher need more wattage to achieve the same intensity at bird level.

Spacing Between Lights

Space lights evenly across the house. The spacing depends on the beam angle of the fixture and the mounting height. A general rule is to space lights at a distance equal to 1.5 to 2 times the mounting height.

For example, if lights are mounted at 8 feet, space them 12 to 16 feet apart. This creates overlapping light patterns that minimize shadows. Use a light meter to check uniformity after installation. Adjust spacing if needed.

Light Placement in Chicken Coop for Feed and Water

Birds need to see their feed and water clearly. Place lights so they illuminate the feed and water lines. Avoid placing lights directly above feeders in a way that creates glare. Glare can deter birds from approaching the feeder.

In broiler houses, aim for even light across the entire floor area. Chicks move freely across the house. Dark spots can cause chicks to huddle, leading to smothering. In layer houses, pay special attention to the feed troughs and nest boxes.

Nest Box Lighting

Nest boxes need adequate light for hens to find them. However, the light should not be too bright. Bright light in nest boxes can discourage hens from entering. A small light near the nest box entrance is often sufficient.

Some producers use a dim light inside nest boxes to make them more attractive. This is particularly useful in the early laying period when hens are learning to use the boxes.

Avoiding Shadows

Shadows are a common problem in poultry houses. They are caused by equipment, structural supports, and uneven light distribution. Shadows can cause birds to avoid certain areas. This leads to overcrowding in lit areas and poor space utilization.

To minimize shadows, use multiple light sources rather than one bright light. Overlap the light patterns from adjacent fixtures. Keep lights clean. Dust and dirt on fixtures can reduce light output by 20 to 30 percent.

Energy Efficient Poultry Lighting Design

Energy efficiency is a major consideration in poultry house lighting. Lighting can account for 5 to 15 percent of total electricity use in a poultry house. Reducing this cost improves profitability.

Calculating Your Current Energy Use

Start by calculating your current lighting energy use. Multiply the wattage of each bulb by the number of bulbs. Multiply this by the hours of operation per day. Divide by 1,000 to get kilowatt hours per day. Multiply by your electricity rate to get daily cost.

For example, a house with 50 incandescent bulbs at 60 watts each uses 3,000 watts. If lights run 18 hours per day, that is 54 kilowatt hours per day. At 15 cents per kilowatt hour, that is 8.10 dollars per day. Over a 42 day broiler growout, that is over 340 dollars just for lighting.

Switching to LED

The most effective way to reduce lighting energy use is to switch to LED lights for poultry. LEDs use about one eighth the energy of incandescent bulbs. A 10 watt LED produces about the same light as a 60 watt incandescent bulb.

Using the example above, replacing 50 incandescent bulbs with 50 LED bulbs at 10 watts each reduces total wattage from 3,000 to 500. Daily energy use drops from 54 to 9 kilowatt hours. Daily cost drops from 8.10 dollars to 1.35 dollars. Annual savings exceed 2,400 dollars.

Dimming Systems

Dimming systems reduce energy use further. When you dim a light, you reduce its power consumption. Dimming LED lights to 50 percent output cuts energy use by about 50 percent. This is not true for all bulb types. Incandescent bulbs use less energy when dimmed, but the savings are less proportional. Fluorescent bulbs that are dimmed may not save much energy at all.

For broilers, a dimming program can significantly reduce energy costs. Many producers run lights at full intensity for the first week, then reduce to 50 percent or less for the rest of the growout. This saves energy and improves feed conversion.

Smart Lighting Controls

Smart lighting controls automate the lighting program. They include photocells, timers, and dimmers. Photocells detect natural light levels and adjust artificial light accordingly. Timers control the photoperiod. Dimmers control intensity.

Modern controllers can be programmed for complex lighting schedules. They can simulate dawn and dusk by gradually increasing or decreasing light intensity. This reduces stress on birds. Some controllers can be monitored and adjusted remotely using a smartphone or computer.

Reflective Surfaces

White or reflective surfaces in the poultry house improve light distribution. Clean white walls and ceilings reflect light back into the house. This reduces the number of fixtures needed and improves uniformity.

If your poultry house has dark walls, consider painting them white. This is a low cost improvement that can reduce lighting requirements by 20 to 30 percent. Keep surfaces clean. Dust buildup reduces reflectivity over time.

Motion Sensors for Work Areas

Motion sensors can reduce energy use in work areas like feed rooms and storage areas. These areas do not need continuous lighting. Motion sensors turn lights on when someone enters and off when they leave. This saves energy without sacrificing convenience.

Natural Light Integration

Open sided poultry houses can use natural light to reduce artificial lighting needs. However, natural light is hard to control. It varies with time of day, weather, and season. For layers, uncontrolled natural light can disrupt the photoperiod. For this reason, most commercial producers use light controlled houses.

If you use natural light, supplement it with artificial light to maintain a consistent photoperiod. Use photocells to detect when natural light drops below the target level. The controller can then turn on artificial lights to fill the gap.

Step by Step Guide to Installing LED Poultry Lighting

Switching to LED lights for poultry is a straightforward project. Follow these steps to ensure a successful installation.

Step 1: Assess Your Current System

Walk through your poultry house and note the current lighting setup. Count the number of fixtures. Note the bulb type and wattage. Measure the mounting height and spacing. Check the condition of the wiring and fixtures.

Step 2: Determine Your Lighting Requirements

Decide on the light intensity and photoperiod you need. This depends on the type of bird and the stage of production. Refer to the intensity and photoperiod sections above. Write down your target foot-candles at bird level.

Step 3: Select the Right LED Bulbs

Choose LED bulbs designed for poultry houses. Look for these features:

• Dimmable down to 1 to 5 percent output
• Sealed against dust and moisture (IP65 or higher)
• Shatter resistant or protected with a lens
• Color temperature of 2700K to 4000K
• Compatible with your dimmer and controller

Avoid standard household LED bulbs. They may not dim properly and may not survive the harsh environment of a poultry house.

Step 4: Check Dimmer Compatibility

Not all dimmers work with all LED bulbs. LED bulbs require specific dimmers designed for LED loads. Check the manufacturer specifications for both the bulbs and the dimmer. Mismatched components can cause flicker, buzzing, or failure to dim properly.

If you are unsure about compatibility, purchase a dimmer and bulb from the same manufacturer. This ensures they are tested to work together.

Step 5: Install the New Fixtures

Turn off the power at the breaker before starting any electrical work. Remove the old bulbs and fixtures. Install the new LED fixtures according to the manufacturer instructions. Use the existing wiring if it is in good condition. If you are not comfortable with electrical work, hire a licensed electrician.

Step 6: Position the Lights

Mount the lights at the recommended height. Use a light meter to check intensity at bird level. Adjust the position of the lights to achieve even coverage. Move lights closer together if you find dark spots. Move them apart if you have too much overlap.

Step 7: Program the Lighting Controller

Set the photoperiod and intensity program on your controller. Start with the recommended program for your type of bird. Monitor bird behavior and adjust as needed. Keep a log of your settings and any changes you make.

Step 8: Verify Energy Savings

Record your electricity usage before and after the switch. Compare your energy bills to verify the savings. Most producers see a 50 to 75 percent reduction in lighting energy use after switching to LED.

Common Lighting Mistakes

Many poultry producers make avoidable mistakes with their lighting systems. Here are the most common problems and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Too Much Light Intensity

Many producers use more light than needed. This is especially common in broiler houses. Bright light makes birds active and nervous. It reduces feed conversion and increases mortality. Use the minimum light intensity needed for the birds to find feed and water.

Mistake 2: Inconsistent Photoperiod

Inconsistent photoperiod is a major cause of egg production problems. Hens need a consistent day length. If you turn lights on and off at different times each day, hens become stressed. This can cause a drop in egg production.

Use a timer to control the photoperiod. Set it and check it regularly. Replace batteries in timers before they die. Check for power outages that may reset your timer.

Mistake 3: Sudden Light Changes

Sudden changes in light intensity cause panic in birds. This can lead to smothering and injury. Never turn lights on or off abruptly. Use a dimmer to gradually change intensity over 15 to 30 minutes. This simulates dawn and dusk and reduces stress.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Light Uniformity

Uneven light distribution causes birds to crowd into bright areas. This leads to poor space utilization and increased competition. Use a light meter to check uniformity. Adjust fixture spacing and wattage to achieve even coverage.

Mistake 5: Using the Wrong Bulb Type

Some producers use standard household bulbs in their poultry houses. These bulbs are not designed for the environment. They may not dim properly. They may break easily. They may not be sealed against dust and moisture. Use bulbs specifically designed for poultry houses.

Mistake 6: Neglecting Maintenance

Dirty bulbs and fixtures reduce light output. Dust buildup can cut light output by 20 to 30 percent. Clean fixtures regularly. Replace bulbs before they burn out. Keep a spare bulb inventory on hand.

Mistake 7: Failing to Adjust for Bird Age

Lighting needs change as birds age. Chicks need higher intensity to find feed and water. Older birds need lower intensity to stay calm. Failing to adjust the lighting program leads to poor performance. Review your lighting program at each stage of production.

Mistake 8: Not Having a Backup Plan

Power outages are a serious risk in poultry houses. A sudden blackout can cause smothering and panic. In layer houses, a blackout can cause a drop in egg production that lasts for days. Have a backup generator and test it regularly. Keep spare bulbs and batteries on hand.

Decision Thresholds for Lighting Adjustments

Knowing when to adjust your lighting program is important. Here are some decision thresholds based on bird behavior and performance.

Chicks Not Finding Feed and Water

If chicks are huddled in groups and not eating or drinking, light intensity may be too low. Increase intensity to 3 to 4 foot-candles (30 to 40 lux) for the first few days. Check that feed and water are visible and accessible.

Excessive Picking or Cannibalism

If you see feather pecking or cannibalism, consider switching to red light. Red light has been shown to reduce these behaviors. Also check light intensity. Reducing intensity to the minimum recommended level can calm aggressive flocks.

Poor Feed Conversion in Broilers

If feed conversion is worse than expected, check your light intensity and photoperiod. High intensity light increases activity and energy use. Reduce intensity to 1 foot-candle (10 lux) or less. Consider switching to an 18 hour light, 6 hour dark program.

Low Egg Production in Layers

If egg production is below target, check your photoperiod first. Hens need 14 to 16 hours of light per day. If day length is too short, increase it gradually. Also check light intensity at the feed lines. Hens need at least 1 foot-candle (10 lux) to see their feed.

Early Sexual Maturity in Pullets

If pullets come into production before 18 to 20 weeks, your lighting program may be wrong. Check that you are not exposing pullets to increasing day length before 16 weeks. If you are, hold day length constant until 16 weeks, then increase gradually.

Sudden Death or Smothering

If you experience sudden death or smothering, check for sudden light changes. Birds can panic when lights turn on or off abruptly. Use a dimmer to simulate dawn and dusk. Also check for dark spots where birds may pile up.

Monitoring and Recordkeeping

Good lighting management requires regular monitoring and accurate records. This helps you identify problems early and make informed adjustments.

Daily Checks

Walk through your poultry house daily and check the lighting system. Look for burned out bulbs, flickering lights, and dirty fixtures. Check that timers and dimmers are working correctly. Verify that the photoperiod matches your program.

Weekly Checks

Use a light meter to check intensity at bird level. Take readings at multiple locations. Record the readings in your log. Clean fixtures if dust is visible. Check for any changes in bird behavior that may be related to lighting.

Recordkeeping

Keep a lighting log for each house. Record the following information:

• Photoperiod (lights on and off times)
• Light intensity settings
• Bulb type and wattage
• Date of bulb replacements
• Energy usage (kilowatt hours)
• Bird age and production stage
• Any problems or adjustments

This log helps you track performance over time. It also helps you identify patterns. For example, if egg production drops every time you change the photoperiod, you may be changing it too quickly.

Energy Monitoring

Track your energy usage monthly. Compare it to previous months and to the same month in previous years. A sudden increase in energy use may indicate a problem with your lighting system. It could also indicate a change in your production schedule.

Reviewing the Lighting Program

Review your lighting program at the start of each flock. Consider the time of year, the type of bird, and your production goals. Make adjustments as needed. A lighting program that works in summer may not work in winter, especially in open sided houses.

When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent

Most lighting problems can be solved with adjustments and good management. However, there are times when you need professional help.

Call a Veterinarian If

• Birds show signs of eye problems, such as swelling, discharge, or squinting
• You see a sudden increase in cannibalism or feather pecking that does not respond to lighting changes
• Egg production drops sharply and does not recover after lighting adjustments
• You see signs of stress or illness that may be related to light exposure

Call an Extension Agent If

• You are designing a new poultry house or major renovation
• You are considering switching from one lighting system to another
• You need help developing a lighting program for a new type of production
• You have questions about energy efficiency or cost savings

Extension agents have access to research based information and can help you make informed decisions. They may also be able to connect you with other producers who have experience with similar systems.

Electrical Emergencies

If you smell burning plastic or see sparks from a fixture, turn off the power immediately. Call a licensed electrician. Do not attempt to fix electrical problems yourself unless you are trained and qualified.

Special Considerations for Different Housing Types

Lighting needs vary by housing type. Consider these factors when designing your lighting system.

Open Sided Houses

Open sided houses rely on natural light for part of the day. This makes photoperiod control difficult. Use supplemental lighting to maintain a consistent photoperiod. Photocells can detect when natural light drops below the target level and turn on artificial lights.

In open sided houses, pay attention to seasonal changes in day length. In winter, you may need more artificial light. In summer, you may need less. Adjust your program accordingly.

Tunnel Ventilated Houses

Tunnel ventilated houses are typically light controlled. They have no windows or skylights. This gives you full control over photoperiod and intensity. However, it also means you need a reliable lighting system. A power outage can plunge the house into complete darkness.

Multi Tier Layer Houses

Multi tier layer houses have cages stacked in multiple levels. This creates unique lighting challenges. Light must reach all tiers evenly. This may require lights at different heights or with different beam angles.

In multi tier houses, measure light intensity at each tier level. Adjust fixture placement to ensure birds on all tiers receive adequate light. Pay special attention to the lowest tier, which often receives the least light.

Free Range Systems

Free range systems combine indoor housing with outdoor access. Birds may choose to stay outside during daylight hours. This means indoor lighting mainly matters during the early morning and evening hours, and on cloudy days.

In free range systems, use a timer to provide light in the early morning. This encourages birds to come out of the house and start eating. Provide shade outside to protect birds from excessive heat and light.

Cost Analysis of Lighting Upgrades

Upgrading your lighting system is an investment. Understanding the costs and benefits helps you make a sound decision.

Initial Costs

The initial cost of an LED lighting system includes the bulbs, fixtures, dimmers, and controllers. For a typical 20,000 bird broiler house, expect to pay 2,000 to 5,000 dollars for a complete LED system. For a layer house, costs may be higher due to the larger number of fixtures.

Installation costs add to the total. If you hire an electrician, budget an additional 500 to 2,000 dollars depending on the complexity of the job.

Energy Savings

Energy savings depend on your current system and your new system. Switching from incandescent to LED typically reduces lighting energy use by 75 to 80 percent. Switching from fluorescent to LED reduces energy use by 40 to 60 percent.

For an example, consider a broiler house that uses 54 kilowatt hours per day for lighting. At 15 cents per kilowatt hour, this costs 8.10 dollars per day. With LED lights, energy use drops to 9 kilowatt hours per day, costing 1.35 dollars. The daily savings are 6.75 dollars. Over a 42 day growout, savings are 283 dollars. Over a year with 6 growouts, savings are 1,700 dollars.

Payback Period

The payback period is the time it takes for energy savings to cover the initial cost. For the example above, if the LED system costs 3,000 dollars and saves 1,700 dollars per year, the payback period is about 1.8 years.

LED bulbs also last much longer than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. This reduces replacement costs and labor. Over the life of the LED bulbs, savings are substantial.

Other Benefits

LED lights produce less heat than incandescent bulbs. This reduces cooling costs in warm weather. LED lights also provide better color rendering, making it easier to inspect birds. They are more durable and less likely to break, reducing the risk of injury to birds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours of light do chickens need per day?

Broilers typically need 18 to 23 hours of light per day. Layers need 14 to 16 hours of light per day to maintain egg production. Pullets should not receive increasing day length before 16 weeks of age. The exact photoperiod depends on your production goals and housing type.

What color light is best for chickens?

Warm white (2700K to 3000K) or neutral white (3500K to 4000K) light works well for most poultry. Red light can reduce feather pecking and cannibalism. Blue light has a calming effect. Green light stimulates growth in broilers. The best color depends on your specific production goals.

How bright should chicken coop lights be?

Broilers need 1 to 2 foot-candles (10 to 20 lux) of light at bird level for most of the growout period. Layers need 1 to 3 foot-candles (10 to 30 lux) at the feed and water lines. Chicks need higher intensity of 2 to 4 foot-candles (20 to 40 lux) for the first few days.

Can I use regular LED bulbs in my chicken coop?

Regular household LED bulbs can work in a small coop, but they are not ideal. They may not dim properly, may not be sealed against dust and moisture, and may not be shatter resistant. For a commercial poultry house, use LED bulbs specifically designed for poultry. These are sealed, durable, and compatible with poultry lighting controllers.

Do chickens need light at night?

No, chickens do not need light at night. In fact, they need a period of darkness for proper rest. Darkness allows melatonin production, which supports immune function and overall health. A dark period of 1 to 6 hours is recommended for broilers. Layers can have a dark period of 8 hours or more.

How do I dim LED lights in my poultry house?

You need dimmable LED bulbs and a compatible dimmer. Not all dimmers work with all LED bulbs. Check the manufacturer specifications for both components. Use a dimmer designed for LED loads. Some poultry lighting controllers have built in dimming capability.

How often should I clean my poultry house lights?

Clean lights at least monthly, or more often in dusty conditions. Dust buildup can reduce light output by 20 to 30 percent. Use a dry cloth or a soft brush to remove dust. Do not use water on electrical fixtures unless they are specifically rated for wet locations.

What happens if the power goes out in my poultry house?

A power outage can cause panic and smothering in birds. In layer houses, it can cause a drop in egg production. Have a backup generator and test it regularly. Keep spare bulbs and batteries on hand. If you have a light controller, check that it resumes the correct program after a power outage.

Related Farming Guides

This section will be populated with links to other farming guides on related topics. Check back soon for more practical resources on poultry management, housing design, and production efficiency.

Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

• Poultry Farm Fencing: Materials, Design, and Predator Exclusion
• Broiler House Wind Speed and Airflow Measurement
• Broiler House Heating Systems: Types and Efficiency

References

• FAO Poultry Production: https://www.fao.org/poultry-production-products/en/
• USDA APHIS Poultry Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian
• WOAH Avian Influenza: https://www.woah.org/en/disease/avian-influenza/
• FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/
• WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.