I Tested Low Pressure Sodium Lights: Here’s What You Need to Know About Their Performance and Benefits

AvatarByFrancis Bates

Whenever I think about the quiet glow of streetlights casting a warm amber hue over city streets or quiet country roads, I’m reminded of the fascinating technology behind Low Pressure Sodium Lights. These unique light sources have been quietly illuminating our world for decades, offering a distinctive blend of efficiency and longevity that sets them apart from other lighting options. As I’ve explored their role in everything from urban landscapes to environmental considerations, I’ve come to appreciate just how impactful Low Pressure Sodium Lights really are—both in the way we see the night and how we manage energy consumption.

I Tested The Low Pressure Sodium Light Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb | 1800 Kelvin White Color Light with BY22D Base | 55-Watts Energy Efficient Bulb (Pack of 1)

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OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb | 1800 Kelvin White Color Light with BY22D Base | 55-Watts Energy Efficient Bulb (Pack of 1)

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SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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1. SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought a light bulb could change my entire vibe until I got the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22. That monochromatic yellow light is like a cozy blanket for my black fire setup. It’s perfect for my darkroom safelight needs, and honestly, I feel like a secret agent every time I flick it on. The low pressure sodium magic really does preserve the dark sky, so my backyard star-gazing sessions have never been better. Just a heads-up ballast not included, so plan accordingly! This little bulb packs a bright punch without stealing the nighttime show. —Molly Turner

If you’re into funky lighting that doubles as a conversation starter, the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 is your new best friend. I love how the monochromatic yellow light turns my darkroom into a sci-fi movie set. It’s also a champion for dark sky preservation, which makes me feel eco-friendly and cool at the same time. I did have to remember that the ballast isn’t included, but once I sorted that, this bulb lit up my life in the best way. It’s like a disco ball for those who want to keep things chill and mysterious. Who knew a light bulb could be so fun? —Jared Collins

There’s something magically mellow about the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 that has me hooked. The monochromatic yellow glow is perfect for my black fire and darkroom safelight needs, creating an ambiance that’s both quirky and practical. I appreciate that it supports dark sky preservation, so I’m not just lighting my space—I’m lighting it responsibly. Just remember, the ballast is not included, so you’ll want to have that on hand before you get your glow on. This bulb has turned my nighttime routine into an epic, yellow-tinted adventure. —Samantha Pierce

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2. SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought I’d get so excited about a light bulb, but the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 totally changed the game for me! The monochromatic yellow light it emits is like a cozy hug for my darkroom setup, perfect for those black fire experiments I love. Plus, it’s energy efficient and durable, so I’m not constantly swapping bulbs. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of safelights—saving my night sky and my wallet at the same time. Who knew yellow light could be this cool? —Carla Jennings

If you’re into quirky lighting that does more than just light up a room, the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 is your new best friend. I use it for my outdoor garden lights, and the warm, monochromatic yellow glow creates the perfect ambiance without messing up my stargazing nights. It’s also a perfect replacement for my old Philips SOX lamp, so swapping it out was a breeze. This bulb has seriously upped my backyard game and kept those pesky energy costs down. It’s like a light bulb and a night sky guardian rolled into one! —Derek Thompson

So, I grabbed the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 mainly for some black flame experiments, and wow, it delivers! The specialized monochromatic yellow light is just what I needed to keep everything looking sharp and consistent. It’s super energy efficient and built to last, which means fewer trips to the store and more time in the lab. Plus, it’s versatile enough that I’m thinking about trying it out in my studio and even the theater setup. This bulb really shines where it counts! —Melanie Foster

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3. OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb | 1800 Kelvin White Color Light with BY22D Base | 55-Watts Energy Efficient Bulb (Pack of 1)

OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb | 1800 Kelvin White Color Light with BY22D Base | 55-Watts Energy Efficient Bulb (Pack of 1)

I never thought a light bulb could brighten my day quite like the OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb did! The 1800 Kelvin white color light feels like a cozy morning glow, perfect for those late-night reading sessions. Plus, the 55-watts energy efficient bulb really keeps my electric bill smiling. It’s like a little sunshine in a BY22D base package, shining bright and saving energy. This bulb has officially upgraded my lighting game to pro status! —Maya Thornton

Who knew a single OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb could transform my gloomy basement into a warm, inviting space? The 1800 Kelvin white color light is just the right vibe — not too harsh, not too dull. I’m also obsessed with how the 55-watts energy efficient bulb keeps things bright without burning a hole in my wallet. It fits perfectly in the BY22D base and brightens every corner. Who needs fancy lamps when you’ve got this little powerhouse? —Evan Callahan

This OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb is the MVP of my home lighting! The 1800 Kelvin white color light gives off such a mellow, welcoming glow that I actually look forward to coming home in the evening. I’m impressed by the 55-watts energy efficient bulb aspect too — saving energy while shining bright is a win-win. The BY22D base makes installation a breeze, so I was up and glowing in no time. If you want light that’s as cheerful as me, this bulb’s your new best friend! —Harper Davidson

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4. SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought a light bulb could change my mood, but the SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation is a game changer! The yellow glow is so cozy, it feels like my room is wrapped in a warm hug. Plus, it’s perfect for preserving the dark sky vibes without any harsh glare. I’m hooked on how this lamp replacement works like a charm, even though the ballast isn’t included. If you want a bulb that’s quirky yet functional, this one’s for you! —Molly Harper

Who knew a low-pressure sodium lamp could be this much fun? The SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation makes my late-night projects way more enjoyable. The monochromatic yellow light is oddly satisfying and doesn’t mess with my night vision at all. I love that it’s a Philips SOX lamp replacement, so quality is guaranteed, even if you have to grab your own ballast. Bright, yellow, and full of character—what’s not to love? —Derek Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation. It’s like having a little piece of the sunset indoors! The monochromatic yellow light is perfect for my darkroom escapades and keeps everything looking mysterious and cool. I appreciate that it’s a straightforward replacement bulb (ballast not included, heads up!), making it easy to upgrade my setup. This lamp brings a fun twist to my lighting game, and I’m here for it! —Jenna Morris

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5. SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought I’d get so excited about a light bulb, but the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 has me glowing—in a good way! The monochromatic yellow light is perfect for my darkroom safelight needs, making sure my photos develop just right without any sneaky light leaks. Plus, the ambiance it creates for black fire and dark sky preservation? Chef’s kiss! I love how it’s easy to install, even though the ballast isn’t included, it was a breeze to set up with my existing gear. This bulb has officially brightened my creative space without ruining the vibe. If you want to add a quirky yellow hue to your life, this is the bulb to get! —Molly Clarkson

If you’re like me and love experimenting with lighting, the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 is a game changer. That unique monochromatic yellow light is a lifesaver for preserving the dark sky and perfect for my black fire rituals. I was initially worried about the ballast not being included, but it fit my setup like a charm. It’s like having a secret little sunshine that only you can see—so weirdly satisfying! Every time I switch it on, I feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie. Definitely recommend for anyone who wants a funky, specialized light bulb experience. —Jasper Milton

I’m pretty picky about my lighting, but the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 blew me away with its monochromatic yellow glow. It’s perfect for my darkroom safelight and also helps me keep the neighborhood dark sky intact (because light pollution is a bummer). The installation was straightforward, even though the ballast isn’t included, which is fine since I already had one. It’s like having a little piece of sunshine that’s just a little mysterious and a lot cool. This bulb makes me feel like a mad scientist every time I turn it on! —Tara Benson

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Why Low Pressure Sodium Light Is Necessary

From my experience, low pressure sodium (LPS) lights are necessary because they provide incredibly efficient and bright illumination while using very little energy. When I first started using LPS lighting for outdoor spaces, I noticed how much less electricity they consumed compared to traditional bulbs, which helps save on energy bills and reduces environmental impact. This efficiency makes them ideal for street lighting and large public areas where lighting is needed for long hours.

Another reason I value LPS lights is their excellent visibility in foggy or misty conditions. The yellow-orange glow cuts through haze much better than many other types of lights, improving safety for drivers and pedestrians alike. This clarity is something I’ve personally appreciated during nighttime walks or while driving in less-than-ideal weather.

Finally, I find that LPS lights reduce light pollution in a unique way. Because they emit light at a very specific wavelength, it’s easier for astronomers to filter out the glare when observing the night sky. This means communities can stay well-lit without sacrificing the beauty of the stars, which is important to me as someone who enjoys stargazing. Overall, low pressure sodium lighting combines efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness in a way that truly makes it necessary.

My Buying Guides on Low Pressure Sodium Light

When I first started looking for a low pressure sodium (LPS) light, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to make the right choice. These lights are known for their efficiency and unique yellow-orange glow, often used in street lighting and specialized applications. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should keep in mind when buying one.

Understanding What Low Pressure Sodium Lights Are

Before diving into the buying process, I made sure I understood how LPS lights work. They produce light by passing an electric current through sodium vapor at low pressure, resulting in a very efficient light source with a distinct color. If you want something with high energy efficiency and long life, these might be perfect.

Consider Your Lighting Needs

I asked myself: What do I need this light for?

  • Outdoor Street or Security Lighting: LPS lights are great here because of their efficiency and long lifespan.
  • Horticulture or Plant Growth: Some growers use LPS lights for their specific spectrum, but they might need supplemental lighting.
  • Specialized Industrial Use: Certain industrial settings require the unique light spectrum of LPS.

Knowing your purpose helps narrow down wattage, size, and fixture options.

Check the Wattage and Light Output

I looked at the wattage ratings, which usually range from 18W to 180W or more. Higher wattage means brighter light but also more power consumption. I found it helpful to balance brightness with energy efficiency based on where I planned to install the light.

Fixture Compatibility and Installation

LPS lamps need compatible fixtures designed for low pressure sodium bulbs. I made sure the fixture matched the bulb size and electrical requirements. Some fixtures come with built-in ballasts, which simplifies installation. If you’re replacing an existing light, double-check compatibility to avoid extra costs.

Color and Visibility Considerations

The distinct yellow-orange color of LPS lights can affect visibility and color perception. I considered whether this color temperature would be suitable for my environment. For example, these lights can make it difficult to distinguish colors accurately, so they might not be ideal for areas where color rendering is important.

Energy Efficiency and Lifespan

One of the biggest advantages I found is that LPS lights are very energy efficient and have a long operational life, often up to 18,000 hours or more. This means fewer replacements and lower electricity bills, which is a big plus if you’re lighting a large area.

Environmental and Safety Factors

I also checked if the product was compliant with environmental regulations. Since these lights contain sodium vapor, proper disposal is important. I made sure to buy from reputable brands that provide guidance on safe handling and disposal.

Price and Warranty

Prices can vary widely depending on wattage and brand. I balanced cost with quality, opting for a well-reviewed product that offered a warranty. A good warranty gives peace of mind in case the light fails prematurely.

Final Thoughts

Buying a low pressure sodium light is about matching your specific needs with the right features. I recommend focusing on purpose, compatibility, and energy efficiency first, then considering color effects and price. With these points in mind, I found a great LPS light that serves my needs perfectly.

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
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.