This resource explains wall pack lights—specifically how to size them correctly using an HID→LED replacement table, how cutoff styles affect distribution and glare, which specs to prioritize (lumens, efficacy, CCT, sensors), and how certifications impact rebates and compliance. It includes a detailed HID→LED comparison chart, a sizing checklist, and practical use-case recommendations.
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Picks
Start With Output
- Match by lumens, not watts (LED is directional).
- Use the HID→LED chart to pick a lumen band.
- Selectable wattage lets you tune on site.
Choose Distribution
- Full cutoff: Zero uplight, glare control.
- Forward-throw: Push light 2–3× mounting height.
- Shield/visor: Trim spill near windows/roads.
Lock Compliance
- Photocell + motion for energy codes.
- DLC for rebates; UL wet outdoors.
- CCT: 3000K (softer) • 4000K (neutral) • 5000K (crisp).
Table of Contents
Sizing Basics (HID→LED & Why Lumens)
Right-sizing isn’t watt-for-watt. A 35–100W LED can outperform a 70–250W HID because LEDs send light where you need it and hold their output over time. Start by identifying the legacy HID wattage and the mounting height, then choose an LED lumen band from the chart. Fine-tune for distribution (full-cutoff vs forward-throw), color temperature, and controls.
- Lumens first: Pick a lumen band that matches the job (door vs dock vs lot edge).
- Distribution drives perception: Forward-throw LEDs can meet target illuminance with fewer lumens than “spray” optics.
- Mean vs initial lumens: HID drops fast; LEDs maintain output—size to maintained light levels.
Mounting Height & Spacing Essentials
Height changes coverage, on-ground brightness, and glare. Use these starting points, then verify after dark and adjust aim/sensor settings.
- 8–12 ft: 1,500–3,000 lm; 20–30 ft spacing; full-cutoff near windows.
- 10–15 ft: 3,000–6,000 lm; 30–40 ft spacing; balanced cutoff vs reach.
- 15–25 ft: 8,000–20,000 lm; 40–60 ft spacing; forward-throw for docks/lots.
Spacing Cheatsheet
Application | Mounting Height | Lumens / Fixture | Starting Spacing (OC) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Doorways & Short Walkways | 8–12 ft | 1,500–3,000 | 20–30 ft | Overlap slightly for continuous paths. |
Perimeter / Façade | 12–18 ft | 3,000–6,000 | 30–45 ft | Stagger near corners/alcoes. |
Loading Docks | 15–20 ft | 6,000–12,000 | One per bay or 30–40 ft | Forward-throw; manage driver glare. |
Parking Lot Edge | 18–25 ft | 10,000–18,000 | 40–60 ft | Beyond ~2–3× height, add poles. |
High-Security / CCTV | 20–25 ft | 15,000–24,000 | ≤ 2 × height | Overlap for uniformity & recognition. |
HID→LED Replacement Chart
Use this to translate legacy HID wall packs to practical LED ranges. Size within the band, then select optics and controls for your site.
Legacy HID | System Watts / Typical Lumens | LED Replacement (W) | LED Lumens (approx.) | Typical Uses |
---|---|---|---|---|
70W MH/HPS | ~85W / 5,000–6,000 | 20–35W | 2,000–4,500 | 8–12 ft doors, short walks |
100W MH/HPS | ~129W / 8,000–9,000 | 35–50W | 4,500–6,500 | 10–15 ft façades, small lots |
150W MH | ~186W / 12,000–15,000 | 60–90W | 8,000–12,000 | 12–18 ft perimeters |
175W MH | ~210W / 14,000–16,000 | 80–100W | 10,000–13,000 | 15–20 ft docks |
250W MH | ~290W / ~20,000 | 100–150W | 14,000–18,000 | 18–25 ft lot edges |
320W PSMH | ~364W / 25,000–30,000 | 150–180W | 18,000–22,000 | 20–25 ft large perimeters |
400W MH | ~460W / 24,000–36,000* | 150–200W | 18,000–24,000 | 20–30 ft long façades |
*Metal halide loses output quickly—size to maintained light, not just initial lumens.
Sizing & Controls Checklist
Use this checklist to lock in the right combination before you buy.
Decision | Best Practice | When to Choose |
---|---|---|
Lumen Band | Pick from HID→LED table | Match door/perimeter/lot needs; avoid over-lighting |
Distribution | Full-cutoff or forward-throw | Cutoff for neighbors/dark sky; forward-throw for reach |
CCT | 3000K / 4000K / 5000K | Warm near residences; neutral general; cool for security |
Controls | Photocell + motion (bi-level) | Code compliance, energy savings, hands-off operation |
Emergency | 90-min battery or separate egress | At exit discharge / required paths |
Ratings | UL wet, DLC, IP65+, IK as needed | Outdoor exposure, rebates, vandal-prone sites |
Adjustability | Selectable wattage/CCT | Tune on site without re-specifying |
Use-Case Sizing Recipes
- Entry Doors (8–12 ft): 1,500–3,000 lm; full-cutoff; 3000–4000K; photocell standard; motion optional for bi-level.
- General Perimeter (12–18 ft): 3,000–6,000 lm; cutoff or wide; 4000K; photocell + motion; 30–45 ft spacing.
- Loading Docks (15–20 ft): 6,000–12,000 lm; forward-throw; 4000–5000K; visor if driver glare; one per bay.
- Parking Edge (18–25 ft): 10,000–18,000 lm; forward-throw; 4000–5000K; 40–60 ft spacing; add poles beyond ~2–3× height.
- High-Security/CCTV (20–25 ft): 15,000–24,000 lm; cutoff or controlled forward-throw; 4000–5000K; spacing ≤ 2× height; overlap beams.
7-Step Workflow
- Identify legacy HID and mounting height (or target area if new).
- Choose LED lumen band from the chart.
- Select distribution (cutoff vs forward-throw).
- Lay out spacing; tighten for uniformity/security.
- Pick CCT and add photocell + motion.
- Verify UL/DLC/Title 24/IP/IK; confirm rebate path.
- Night test: aim, sensor timeouts, selectable wattage tuning.
Certifications & Rebates
- UL Listed (Wet): Outdoor safety/construction.
- DLC (Std/Premium): Efficiency/quality; often required for utility incentives.
- Title 24 (CA): Photocell + motion (bi-level) typically required ≤ ~24 ft mounting.
- IP/IK: IP65+ for weather; IK for impact resistance in tough sites.
- Egress: Provide 90-minute illumination at exit discharge (integral EM or separate egress lighting).
Pro tip: Field-selectable wattage/CCT models simplify plan review, help meet dark-sky targets (use ≤4000K), and maximize rebate eligibility.
Download Wall Pack Lighting Buyer’s Guide (PDF)