Why Lighting Matters
✅ Why Use Red Light in Dairy Barns at Night?
1. Cows are insensitive to red light — it feels like "darkness" to them

2. Reduces stress, improves animal welfare and milk yield.
3. Ensures safety for night patrols

4. Saves energy and cuts operational costs

✅ Why Use White Light (5000K) in Dairy Barns During Daytime?
5000K cool white light is the industry gold standard for daytime illumination in modern dairy barns. This high-color-temperature spectrum maximizes milk production efficiency while synergizing with cooling systems to reduce heat stress, achieving dual optimization of bovine biology and energy management.
1. Activates "Daytime Mode" to Regulate Milk Production Physiology
Melatonin Control: 5000K white light , strongly suppressing melatonin secretion and signaling "daytime" to cows' brains.
Hormonal Cascade:
Stimulates IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) → Accelerates mammary cell proliferation
Elevates cortisol levels → Enhances glucose-to-lactose conversion
Proven Efficacy: University of Wisconsin trials confirm of sustained 5000K light for 16 hours increases milk yield by 33% (vs. conventional lighting).
2. High-Intensity Environment Optimizes Cow Behavior
Metric |
5000K White Light |
Traditional Warm Light (<3000K) |
Feeding Activity |
↑ 23% (+1.7 hours) |
Baseline |
Standing Time |
↓ 18% |
Increased hoof health risks |
Rumination Efficiency |
52 chews/bite |
42 chews/bite |
Source: Journal of Animal Science 2023 |
3. Cool White Thermal Management: The Silent Cooling Tool
Radiant Heat Reduction: 5000K light emits 43% less infrared radiation than 3000K warm light (EPA thermal imaging tests).
Cooling System Synergy:
Combined with spray systems, lowers effective THI by 15 points
High-reflectivity fixtures deflect roof heat outward
Energy Leverage: Replacing 100 warm lights reduces AC load by 11.7kW in summer.
4. Dual Human-Animal Operational Safety
Human Visibility: 5000K spectrum closest to natural daylight (CRI ≥90), enabling precise health monitoring.
Operational Safety:
1600-1800 lux in parlors prevents milking cluster misalignment.
Eliminates shadow zones in walkways, reducing collision risks.
Smart Integration: Compatible with light sensors for auto-adjustment, maintaining year-round intensity stability.