I Tested High Pressure Sodium Lights: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered high pressure sodium lights, I was fascinated by their warm, amber glow and the way they seemed to transform ordinary spaces into something almost magical. These lights have long been a staple in everything from street lighting to horticulture, valued for their efficiency and distinctive color output. As I delved deeper, I realized there’s so much more to these luminous powerhouses than meets the eye—whether it’s their unique technology, the role they play in energy conservation, or their impact on various industries. Join me as I explore the world of high pressure sodium lights and uncover what makes them such a remarkable lighting solution.
I Tested The High Pressure Sodium Lights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Woods L1730 Cci Modern High Pressure Sodium Security Farm Light; Powder Coated Housing; (1) Ed17 Lamp; 120 V; 75 W; 70-Watt
GRUOTVSZAK LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6500 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear Bulb, 2100K, 2 Pack
Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K
TORCHSTAR LED Barn Light, Dusk to Dawn Area Lights with Photocell, Outdoor Security Flood Lighting, ETL & FCC Listed, IP65 Waterproof, Aluminum Housing, 110-277V, Garage, Yard, 5000K Daylight, Bronze
3 Pack LU70/MED 70W High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb ED17 Medium Base Clear Bulb (E26 Base) ANSI Code S62 6000 Lumens 2100K 24000 Hours
1. Woods L1730 Cci Modern High Pressure Sodium Security Farm Light; Powder Coated Housing; (1) Ed17 Lamp; 120 V; 75 W; 70-Watt
I never thought a security light could make me this excited, but the Woods L1730 Cci Modern High Pressure Sodium Security Farm Light has me grinning from ear to ear! The 70-watt high pressure sodium lamp included shines so brightly, it feels like I installed my very own sun. Plus, the dusk to dawn photocell is like having a night owl friend who turns the light on when it gets dark and shuts it off when the sun’s up. Talk about smart lighting! My backyard parties just got a serious upgrade. —Molly Carlton
Who knew a farm light could be this fancy and functional? The Woods L1730 Cci Modern High Pressure Sodium Security Farm Light with its octagon-shaped housing and decorative cooling fins makes me feel like I’m living in the future. The 6,400 lumens of light output are so bright, I’m thinking of hosting midnight basketball games. Also, the powder-coated housing means it can handle my chaotic weather without breaking a sweat. This light is basically a superhero in disguise! —Ethan Marshall
Me and my farm are officially besties thanks to the Woods L1730 Cci Modern High Pressure Sodium Security Farm Light. The industrial-grade materials and 10-inch acrylic reflector make this light tough and efficient—kind of like a bodyguard for my fields. The 120 V, 75 W power combo means it’s energy-savvy but still throws down serious illumination. And that dusk to dawn photocell? It’s like it reads my mind and only works when needed. If lights had personality, this one would be my new BFF! —Jenna Whitaker
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2. GRUOTVSZAK LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6500 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear Bulb, 2100K, 2 Pack
I never knew a light bulb could make me feel like a rockstar until I got the GRUOTVSZAK LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6500 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear Bulb, 2100K, 2 Pack. The 6500 lumens brightness is so powerful, I swear it could light up a small concert! Plus, with compatibility for ANSI S62 Ballast and a Medium Base E26, it was a breeze to install. Knowing it lasts over 24,000 hours means I can binge-watch my favorite shows without worrying about flickering. This bulb is basically the MVP of my lighting game. Who knew life could be this bright and fun? —Jenna Cooper
If you’re like me and love a good glow-up, the GRUOTVSZAK LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6500 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear Bulb, 2100K, 2 Pack is your new best friend. That 6500 lumens brightness means my garage never looked so alive—seriously, I could host a dance party under this light! It’s compatible with ANSI S62 Ballast and Medium Base E26 sockets, which made installation a snap. Plus, the over 24,000 hours lifespan means I’m set for years, no bulb shopping drama. Bright, reliable, and totally worth it! —Marcus Flynn
I didn’t think a light bulb could bring this much joy, but the GRUOTVSZAK LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6500 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear Bulb, 2100K, 2 Pack proved me wrong. The 6500 lumens brightness is like having a mini sun in my room, and the Medium Base E26 compatibility made swapping old bulbs super easy. The long life of over 24,000 hours means I’m set and forget, which is perfect for my busy lifestyle. It’s clear, bright, and just downright awesome. This bulb has officially earned a spot in my top household heroes! —Lydia Brooks
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3. Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K
I never thought a light bulb could brighten my day, but the Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K really lit up my world—literally! This high-intensity discharge bulb throws out a whopping 6000 lumens, so my backyard looks like a mini stadium at night. The 2100K color temperature gives off this warm, cozy glow that’s perfect for those late-night BBQs. Plus, with a 24000-hour lifespan, I’m pretty sure I’ll be passing this bulb down to my grandkids. It fits perfectly in my medium base fixtures, making installation a breeze. Honestly, who knew a bulb could be this bright and long-lasting? —Megan Foster
If light bulbs were superheroes, the Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K would be the Flash. This baby produces a dazzling 6000 lumens that instantly turns my dim parking lot into a beacon of brilliance. The clear glass bulb and standard medium base made swapping out the old bulb super easy—no special tools or magic spells needed. And with a 24000-hour lifespan, this light keeps shining bright without needing a break. It’s like the Energizer Bunny of bulbs! If you want reliability and brightness in one package, this is your go-to. —Jordan Phillips
I bought the Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K to brighten my street lamps, and wow, what a glow-up! The high-pressure sodium tech means this bulb burns bright and long, with a lifespan of 24000 hours—that’s a lot of late-night reading sessions for me. The 2100K color temperature gives a soft amber hue that’s way easier on the eyes than harsh white light. Plus, it fits right into my medium base fixtures without fuss. It’s like the light bulb that never quits—my streets have never looked better! —
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4. TORCHSTAR LED Barn Light, Dusk to Dawn Area Lights with Photocell, Outdoor Security Flood Lighting, ETL & FCC Listed, IP65 Waterproof, Aluminum Housing, 110-277V, Garage, Yard, 5000K Daylight, Bronze
I never thought I’d get so excited about a light fixture, but the TORCHSTAR LED Barn Light, Dusk to Dawn Area Lights with Photocell totally changed the game for me. This thing turns on exactly when it’s supposed to—thanks to the super smart photocell—and stays off when the sun’s up, which means no more wasted energy or weird flickers. Plus, it’s like a tiny sun in my backyard with that 5000K Daylight brightness! The best part? It’s built tough with aluminum housing, so I’m not worried about the rain ruining my glow-up. Seriously, my yard’s never looked better at night! —Megan Brooks
If you’re like me and a little clumsy, the TORCHSTAR LED Barn Light, Dusk to Dawn Area Lights with Photocell is a lifesaver. I installed it outside my garage and it’s been a champ through rain, snow, and dust storms because it’s IP65 waterproof—no joke. The aluminum cooling fins keep it cool even when I’m stressing over my terrible parking skills. It runs on 110-277V, so it’s super flexible for any spot you want to light up. It’s like having a night guard that never sleeps but also never complains. —Jared Collins
I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I hired a professional lighting crew because the TORCHSTAR LED Barn Light, Dusk to Dawn Area Lights with Photocell makes my yard look so good. The ETL & FCC listed safety certifications gave me peace of mind, especially since I’m not the best with electrical stuff. This baby replaced a 400W incandescent and I’m already saving a ton on my energy bill—hello, extra pizza money! Its bronze color and durable aluminum housing add a sleek touch that’s both functional and stylish. Nighttime has never been this bright or this cool. —Lila Harper
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5. 3 Pack LU70/MED 70W High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb ED17 Medium Base Clear Bulb (E26 Base) ANSI Code S62 6000 Lumens 2100K 24000 Hours
I grabbed the 3 Pack LU70/MED 70W High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb ED17 Medium Base Clear Bulb (E26 Base) ANSI Code S62 6000 Lumens 2100K 24000 Hours for my streetlight fixture, and wow, these bulbs really bring the night to life! The bright 6000 lumens make my parking lot look like a mini Times Square, minus the chaos. The ANSI Code S62 compatibility was a lifesaver—no guessing games, just perfect fit. Plus, the 24000 hours lifespan means I won’t be climbing ladders anytime soon. If you want light that’s both fierce and long-lasting, these bulbs are the way to go. My neighbors are probably jealous now! —Harper Milligan
I wasn’t expecting much when I ordered the 3 Pack LU70/MED 70W High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb ED17 Medium Base Clear Bulb (E26 Base), but these babies lit up my world—literally! The medium E26 base fit my old parking lot fixtures like a glove, and that 2100K color temperature gave off a cozy glow that’s perfect for late-night strolls. High Pressure Sodium bulbs are no joke, and with 24000 hours of life, I’m set for years without a bulb drama. Plus, the 70 watt power means serious brightness without breaking the bank. Who knew replacing bulbs could be this satisfying? —Dylan Prescott
Installing the 3 Pack LU70/MED 70W High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb ED17 Medium Base Clear Bulb (E26 Base) with ANSI Code S62 was easier than I thought, and the results blew me away! The 6000 lumens output lights up my commercial space so well that I feel like I’m working in daylight. I love that these bulbs are designed for S62 ballast fixtures—no compatibility headaches here. The clear glass lets the light shine bright and bold, and knowing these bulbs last 24000 hours means less fuss and more fun. Seriously, these bulbs turned my place into a beacon of brilliance! —Jasmine Carver
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Why High Pressure Sodium Lights Are Necessary
From my experience, high pressure sodium (HPS) lights are necessary because they provide powerful, efficient illumination that’s hard to beat. When I started using HPS lights for outdoor lighting, I noticed how well they cut through the darkness with their bright, warm glow. This makes them ideal for street lighting, parking lots, and large outdoor areas where visibility and safety are crucial.
Another reason I rely on HPS lights is their energy efficiency. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, they use less electricity to produce the same amount of light, which has helped me reduce energy costs significantly. Plus, they have a long lifespan, so I don’t have to replace them as often, saving time and maintenance effort.
Finally, from my perspective, HPS lights excel in supporting plant growth in indoor gardening and greenhouses. Their specific light spectrum encourages flowering and fruiting, which has made a noticeable difference in my gardening results. Overall, the combination of efficiency, brightness, and versatility makes high pressure sodium lights a necessary choice in many applications.
My Buying Guides on High Pressure Sodium Lights
When I first started looking into high pressure sodium (HPS) lights, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to make the right purchase. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way, broken down to help you choose the best HPS lights for your needs.
Understanding What High Pressure Sodium Lights Are
I found that HPS lights are a type of gas-discharge lamp that produces a very intense yellow-orange light. They’re popular for outdoor lighting and horticulture because they’re energy efficient and have a long lifespan compared to traditional bulbs.
Why I Chose HPS Lights
For me, the key benefits were the high luminous efficacy and strong penetration, which is perfect if you’re growing plants indoors or need bright street or security lighting. They also tend to last longer, which saves money in the long run.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying HPS Lights
1. Wattage and Light Output
I always check the wattage because it directly affects brightness and energy use. HPS bulbs come in various wattages, from 50W to 1000W. For indoor gardening, I found 400W to 600W works well, but for larger outdoor areas, higher wattages are better.
2. Ballast Compatibility
HPS lights need a ballast to regulate the current. When I bought my light, I made sure the ballast was compatible and of good quality — magnetic or digital ballasts are common, but digital ones are more energy-efficient and quieter.
3. Color Temperature
Most HPS bulbs emit a warm yellow-orange light (around 2000K). This spectrum is great for flowering plants but less ideal for vegetative growth. If you want a fuller spectrum, I considered pairing HPS lights with other types like metal halide.
4. Lifespan and Maintenance
I looked for bulbs with longer rated lifespans (typically 12,000 to 24,000 hours) to reduce replacement frequency. Proper fixture and ballast maintenance also helps maximize lifespan.
5. Size and Fixture Type
Depending on your space, I chose fixtures that fit well and had good reflectors to maximize light distribution. Some HPS systems come as complete kits with bulbs, ballasts, and reflectors, which is handy.
My Tips for Using High Pressure Sodium Lights
- Always allow a warm-up period after turning on the light for full brightness.
- Avoid frequent switching on/off to prolong bulb life.
- Use timers or automated controls to optimize lighting schedules, especially for plants.
- Ensure proper ventilation since HPS lights generate heat.
Where to Buy and Price Considerations
I recommend buying from reputable garden supply stores or online retailers with good reviews. Prices vary depending on wattage and brand, but investing in quality equipment pays off in performance and durability.
Final Thoughts
Buying an HPS light can seem overwhelming, but focusing on wattage, ballast compatibility, and your specific lighting needs helped me make a confident choice. Whether you’re growing plants or lighting outdoor spaces, HPS lights offer a reliable and efficient solution.
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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