An LED light bar is a horizontal crossbar that has multiple LED lights. It’s usually attached to the roof, but some can also be installed on the front bumper or windshield. This light is commonly used as an accessory for off-road driving or other recreational activities rather than a supplementary light for driving on main roads.
One thing that makes LED light bars stand out is their longevity. They can last up to 50,000 hours, a far cry from the usual 5,000-hour lifespan of traditional bulbs.
Things to Consider When Buying a Light Bar
Before choosing a light bar, consider its lumen output, size and shape, rows, and more. This way, you’ll get one that fits your vehicle and meets your expectations. After all, some light bars can be expensive.
Lumen Output
LED light bars are used to provide better visibility off-road. Typically, a light bar that produces 10,000 to 15,000 lumens should be enough for off-roading purposes. There are also light bars that produce more than 20,000 lumens, but there’s a good chance you won’t need that kind of brightness.
Size
LED light bars come in varying sizes to fit different types of vehicles. So, if you’re driving a truck, it’s best to check if the light bar fits nicely across the roof. The light bar’s size also correlates with its power, meaning a bigger light bar will produce more power and illuminate better.
Shape
LED light bars come in two shapes: curved and straight. Choosing the proper shape could greatly enhance your ride’s overall look, something most vehicle owners value.
Rows
Most light bars have single or double rows of LEDs. Double-row LED light bars are great if you have more money to spend and want more light output. Single-row light bars are better if you’re on a budget and prefer to maintain a simple profile.
Pattern
There are three common types of LED light bars. These are spot beam, flood beam, and combination beam patterns.
- Spot beam patterns: Narrow and reach a wide distance
- Flood beam patterns: Wider beam
- Combination beam patterns: Combination of the two
Choose a pattern by considering the terrains you’ll be driving on. For example, spot beams may be better for driving on narrow off-roads since you don’t need to illuminate that wide.
Color
There are lots of options to choose from, but the most recommended color is white. White illuminates better in the dark compared to other colors, making it the safest choice. Another color to consider is amber because it works well under fog and other low-visibility conditions.
Adjustability
Additionally, having the ability to adjust the light bar is important so you can dial in the direction of the lights.
Technology
Lastly, you can choose how to turn your light bar on depending on the technology it uses. Most have a manual switch to activate the lights, while some have Bluetooth that lets you turn the light bar on or off outside the vehicle
Reasons Why You Should Get a Light Bar
Here are some of the reasons why you should consider installing a light bar on your vehicle.
Safer Off-Roading
The main purpose of LED light bars is to illuminate the road during low visibility situations while driving off-road to help identify road hazards, dangerous bends, and more.
Durability
As mentioned, light bars may last up to 50,000 hours of use. One of the many reasons for their longevity is that they are resistant to changes in temperature. They also come in a sealed housing, which prevents road debris from contaminating or damaging the light mechanism.
If you plan to go off-roading during the colder months in snowy areas, it’s a good idea to get heated light bars that automatically turn on when the temperature drops. This feature prevents ice buildup which may damage a regular light bar.
Value
The price of light bars ranges from $15 to $150, while installation costs may fall anywhere between $200 and $500.
Combined with its longevity, a single light bar is a cost-effective accessory for any vehicle. They don’t require much maintenance and can prevent accidents that could lead to costly repairs.
Style
Lastly, a light bar could improve your vehicle’s overall look. And since there are plenty of options online, you can customize your vehicle to your preference.
How to Install a Light Bar
Installing an LED bar involves a series of steps to ensure it stays on and works properly. Improper installation could lead to the light bar falling off when driving off-road.
If you’re unsure how to properly install an LED light bar, it’s best to seek the help of a professional. This job usually costs around $360 for parts and labor, but prices could vary depending on your vehicle and location.
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