How To Choose the Right Lighting Equipment
Illumination Area & Brightness: Lumens
- When choosing to rent lighting equipment, determine the size of the area you need to light and the brightness level required for safe work whether for task lighting or general coverage
- Account for mounting height and obstructions so you get even illumination without dark spots or glare
- Select accessories like glare shields or backup lighting to meet specific safety and compliance requirements
Operating Environment & Hazardous Conditions
- Identify any hazardous conditions including wet areas, flammables, or confined spaces that necessitate specially rated equipment
- For hazardous locations or tight spaces, choose intrinsically safe or explosion-proof lighting. In high-traffic zones, durable light towers with protective cages enhance safety
- Consider outdoor conditions like weather and ground stability. Select weather-rated light towers for rain and wind, and ensure stable bases for heavy units on soft or uneven ground
Power Source & Portability Needs
- Choose electric lighting when power is accessible and noise or emissions are a concern. Opt for gas or diesel models for remote sites and longer runtimes
- For widespread long-duration illumination in large remote areas, towable light towers are ideal. Portable options like wobble lights or light strings are better for highly mobile needs or when close to power outlets
- Verify your site's available power such as voltage, phase, amperage or fuel type. Plan for run time refueling or charging and any necessary cords or cables
FAQs About lighting equipment
United Rentals offers a wide range of lighting equipment for rent, ensuring your crew can work efficiently in a safe, well-lit environment. We can provide portable light towers, light stands, drop lights, wobble lights, hand lamps, balloon lights and light strings for various jobsite requirements. Our inventory includes trusted brands like Larson Electronics, Southwire and Worksite Lighting. We also offer vapor and explosion-proof solutions to provide efficient illumination in hazardous environments where airborne contaminants or flammable materials are present. Our portable light rentals are well maintained and routinely serviced to ensure reliable operation in the field.
Learn more about our work light rental equipment in our FAQ section below.
This depends mostly on the type of jobsite you’re working on, how much luminescent power is required and whether your lighting needs to be portable. Hand lamps, balloon lights and drop lights can all be great portable choices for construction work, as they’re easy to use and move and provide excellent visibility. For broader coverage, you may need to consider a light stand or portable light tower. We encourage you to consult with your site manager to determine which lighting source best suits your needs. Need more help? Check out our Project Uptime article “Five Tips for Renting a Portable Light Tower."
For outside lighting purposes, 80 watts and lower is plenty. However, for industrial or worksite lighting needs, more wattage might be necessary. United Rentals offers portable work lights with a range of wattages for any application.
Our lineup of lighting equipment is versatile for use in most of the weather conditions your crew will face on the jobsite. If you are concerned about extreme weather conditions affecting your next outdoor lighting rental, reach out to your local United Rentals branch.