Shopping for White Lights? Here’s What Color Temperature Really Means

When you’re shopping for LED lights for your barn or livestock facility, brightness isn’t the only factor that matters. Color temperature—how “warm” or “cool” the light appears—can make a big difference in both how your barn looks and how your animals perform.

But what do terms like soft white, cool white, or daylight really mean? And more importantly, which one is best for your farm?

What Is Color Temperature?

Color temperature refers to the appearance of white light and is measured in Kelvin (K). The lower the number, the warmer and more yellow the light. The higher the number, the cooler and more bluish-white the light.

Different color temperatures serve different purposes, and choosing the right one can improve animal welfare, worker visibility, and energy efficiency.

Which Color Temperature Should You Choose?

Here’s a guide to the most common color temperatures in agricultural lighting:

2700K – Soft White

• Warm and yellowish, like an old incandescent bulb. Cozy, but not bright enough for barns.
• Best for: Residential or office spaces, not recommended for animal housing.

3000K – Warm White+

• Still warm, but with a bit more brightness. Ideal for low-stress zones like calving or brooding areas.
• Best for: Young animals or spaces designed to reduce stress.

3500K – Warm White

• Neutral and easy on the eyes, with enough intensity for general use. Popular in poultry settings.
• Best for: Poultry houses, milking parlors, mixed-use barns.

4000K – Cool White

• A crisp, clean light that enhances visibility and productivity without being too harsh.
• Best for: Feed rooms, utility areas, and daily tasks.

5000K – Daylight

• Bright and energizing—mimics natural daylight and supports both human and animal performance.
• Best for: Full-barn lighting, poultry production, or anywhere visibility matters most.

Why Color Temperature Matters for Animals

Lighting isn’t just about seeing clearly—it directly affects animal behavior, health, and performance. Studies have shown the right light can:

• Encourage feed intake
• Support growth and reproduction
• Minimize aggression and stress
• Lower injury risk
• Improve immune function

If you’re managing a poultry house, swine barn, or dairy operation, your lighting should work with your animals—not against them.

 Final Tips for Better Barn Lighting:

• Choose LED farm lighting for energy savings and longevity
• Match the color temperature to your animals’ needs

Whether you’re outfitting a new facility or improving an existing one, ONCE offers engineered LED lighting systems built specifically for animal agriculture.

For questions on what products are best for your operation, reach out to our innovation team!