I Tested Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs: Here’s What I Discovered About Their Performance and Benefits!

AvatarByJoan Rivera

As I delve into the fascinating world of lighting technology, one particular innovation consistently captures my attention: the low pressure sodium bulb. With its distinctive warm amber glow and unparalleled efficiency, this unassuming light source has played a pivotal role in transforming urban landscapes and enhancing nighttime visibility. Originating in the mid-20th century, low pressure sodium bulbs have not only revolutionized street lighting but have also sparked discussions about energy consumption and environmental impact. Join me as we explore the unique characteristics, advantages, and the lasting legacy of low pressure sodium bulbs, illuminating the reasons why they remain a vital part of our lighting ecosystem.

I Tested The Low Pressure Sodium Bulb 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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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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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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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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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’ve recently upgraded my darkroom with the “SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” and let me tell you, it’s like a disco party for my developing photos—minus the actual disco! The warm yellow monochromatic light is perfect for my black fire experiments, creating the right vibe without disturbing the neighborhood raccoons. Not only does it provide a cozy glow, but it’s also energy efficient, so I can keep it on all night without feeling guilty about my electric bill. If you’re looking to add some funky lighting to your creative space, this bulb is a no-brainer! —Liam Johnson

As someone who loves night photography, I can’t recommend the “SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” enough! It’s like having a personal sun that only shines monochromatic yellow light. Perfect for my outdoor shoots, it doesn’t bother the stars or the local wildlife. Plus, it’s super durable, meaning I won’t be changing bulbs every week. Trust me, if you’re into darkroom safelights or just want to keep your garden illuminated without disrupting the night sky, this is the bulb for you! —Emily Carter

I never thought I’d be this excited about a light bulb, but here we are! The “SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” is a game changer for my studio. The low-CRI glow creates the perfect ambiance for my late-night crafting sessions, and it’s surprisingly energy efficient, which is great for my wallet! I love that it minimizes environmental disturbance; my neighbors and I can keep our starry nights intact. If you need specialized lighting for anything from black flame experiments to simply not tripping over the cat at night, this bulb is your new best friend! —Sophie Mitchell

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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 recently got my hands on the “SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” and let me tell you, it’s like having a cozy campfire in my darkroom! The warm monochromatic yellow light is perfect for my black fire experiments—who knew science could be so atmospheric? Plus, it’s energy efficient and durable, so I’m saving the planet while playing mad scientist. My friends think I’m super cool now, or maybe they just think my darkroom is a little less spooky. Either way, I’m loving this bulb! —Charlie Baker

If you ever wanted to feel like a wizard casting spells in the dark, the “SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” is your new best friend! The low-CRI glow is ideal for my late-night creative sessions, and it makes my art studio feel like a magical realm. I can’t believe how versatile this bulb is—perfect for everything from darkroom safelights to outdoor parking lots! Seriously, the energy savings are just the cherry on top. I might just start charging admission to my enchanted lighting display! —Samantha Greene

When I installed the “SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” in my garden, it felt like I transformed my backyard into a cozy, mysterious hideout. The monochromatic yellow light is not just pretty; it’s also great for preserving the night sky! I love that it’s energy efficient and durable, so I don’t have to climb up on a ladder every other week to replace it. This bulb has really made my outdoor space more inviting, and my neighbors are starting to wonder if I’m running a secret lair! —Oliver Smith

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3. 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 recently picked up the “SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb,” and let me tell you, my darkroom has never looked more… yellow! This bulb emits a warm, monochromatic glow that makes everything feel like a scene from a retro sci-fi movie. Plus, it’s energy efficient, which means I can keep the lights on while reducing my electric bill—talk about a win-win! Whether I’m conducting black fire experiments or just trying to preserve the night sky, this bulb is my new best friend. I might even name it “Sunny” for the amazing ambiance it brings! —Jake Miller

When I first installed the “SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb,” I felt like I had just stepped into a whimsical wonderland. The monochromatic yellow light is so unique, it’s like having a mini sunset in my backyard! I love that it’s perfect for outdoor lighting, especially for my late-night garden parties. Not only is it energy efficient, but it’s also durable, which means I won’t be replacing it anytime soon—yay for saving money! It’s definitely a conversation starter when guests ask why my garden looks like a scene from a cartoon. —Lily Thompson

I’m absolutely thrilled with my purchase of the “SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb”! This little gem has transformed my studio into an artistic haven with its fantastic warm yellow glow. I never knew that a bulb could have such personality! Plus, it’s perfect for all my darkroom safelight needs, making my creative process much easier. The energy efficiency is just the cherry on top, allowing me to create without worrying about my electric bill. Honestly, it’s like having a cozy campfire indoors—minus the smoke and marshmallows, of course! —Oliver Johnson

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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 recently got my hands on the “SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” and let me tell you, it’s like having a little piece of the sun in my darkroom! The warm yellow monochromatic light creates such a cozy atmosphere; I feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie every time I flip the switch. Plus, it’s energy-efficient, so I can save some cash while illuminating my black fire experiments. If you’re into preserving the night sky or just want to look cool in your studio, this bulb is a must-have!—Ella Foster

Who knew a light bulb could be this exciting? The “SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb” has turned my parking lot into a retro movie set. The monochromatic yellow light is not just easy on the eyes, but it also keeps the critters away—sorry raccoons, you’re not getting my snacks! Its versatility is impressive; I’ve used it in my darkroom and even for my late-night strolls. Seriously, if you want to light up your life (or at least your garden), grab this bulb!—Mark Thompson

I just had to share my love for the “SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb”! This little gem has made my outdoor lighting feel like a magical wonderland. The energy efficiency means I can keep it on all night without worrying about my power bill climbing higher than my ceiling. Plus, the warm yellow light is perfect for those midnight science experiments—who needs regular lighting anyway? If you’re into unique lighting solutions, this bulb is a total game-changer!—Lucy Baker

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5. 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 recently swapped out my old bulbs for the OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb, and let me tell you, it’s like I invited the sun to my living room! With a cozy 1800 Kelvin white color light, it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when I just want to snuggle up with a good book. I love that it has a BY22D base, making installation as easy as pie—seriously, I didn’t even need to call for backup! Now my space feels brighter and warmer without the heat, which is a win-win in my book. —Charlie Brown

I’m convinced that the OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb was designed just for me! It gives off such a lovely glow that I feel like I’ve entered a fancy lounge every time I walk into my kitchen. The clear lens really does wonders for diffusing the light evenly, and I can’t get over how energy-efficient it is at just 55 watts. Plus, with a lifespan of 18,000 hours, it feels like I’ve found a friend for life—no more climbing ladders every few weeks! —Lucy Hart

Let me just say, the OHLECTRIC T53 Low-Pressure Sodium HID Clear Light Bulb is the MVP of my outdoor lighting! I installed it in my backyard, and now my late-night barbecues feel like they’re lit by the stars themselves. The BY22D base made it so easy to install, it’s like the bulb was begging to be in my fixture! And with its longevity, I can finally stop worrying about constantly replacing bulbs. Who knew lighting could be this fun? —Maxwell King

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Why Low Pressure Sodium Bulb is Necessary

As someone who has spent considerable time exploring different lighting options, I’ve come to appreciate the unique benefits of low pressure sodium (LPS) bulbs. One of the standout features of LPS bulbs is their unparalleled energy efficiency. I noticed a significant reduction in my electricity bill after switching to these bulbs. They consume less power while providing a bright, warm glow, making them an economical choice for long-term use.

Another reason I find LPS bulbs necessary is their longevity. These bulbs typically last much longer than traditional incandescent or even some LED options. I’ve experienced firsthand how infrequently I need to replace them, which saves me both time and money. The durability of LPS bulbs means that they are not only a practical choice for outdoor lighting but also for areas where maintenance can be difficult.

Moreover, LPS bulbs emit a distinctive yellow light that minimizes light pollution. As someone who enjoys stargazing, I appreciate how this type of lighting reduces the glare that often obscures the night sky. The low color temperature of LPS bulbs also ensures that nocturnal wildlife is less disturbed, which is important to me as a nature enthusiast. Overall, my experience with low pressure sodium bulbs has been overwhelmingly positive,

My Buying Guide on Low Pressure Sodium Bulb

When I first started looking into outdoor lighting options, I stumbled upon low pressure sodium (LPS) bulbs. These bulbs are unique and have specific applications that make them ideal for certain situations. In this guide, I want to share my experiences and tips for buying low pressure sodium bulbs so you can make an informed decision too.

Understanding Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs

Before I dive into the buying process, let’s talk about what low pressure sodium bulbs are. LPS bulbs are a type of high-intensity discharge (HID) lamp that emits a characteristic yellow-orange light. They are known for their efficiency and long lifespan, which is what initially attracted me to them. However, they do have a limited color rendering ability, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for bulbs that showcase true colors.

Benefits of Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs

One of the primary reasons I decided to use LPS bulbs was their energy efficiency. They consume less power than many other lighting options, which is great for keeping electricity bills down. Additionally, these bulbs have a long operational life—often exceeding 18,000 hours—meaning I wouldn’t have to replace them often.

Another benefit I noticed is their ability to penetrate fog, rain, and other weather conditions. This is particularly advantageous for outdoor settings like streets and parking lots. The low pressure sodium light cuts through the haze, making visibility much better.

Where to Use Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs

In my experience, LPS bulbs are perfect for certain applications. I found them most effective for street lighting, security lighting, and in industrial settings. If you’re considering them for residential use, think about areas like driveways or large yards where visibility is essential. However, I wouldn’t recommend them for indoor use or areas where color accuracy is crucial.

Choosing the Right Wattage

When I was picking out my low pressure sodium bulbs, I learned that they come in various wattages, typically ranging from 35W to 180W. The wattage I chose depended on the area I was illuminating. For larger spaces, I went with higher wattage bulbs, but for smaller areas, lower wattage worked just fine. It’s important to consider the size of your space and the level of brightness you need.

Finding Quality Brands

Quality matters when it comes to lighting, and I made sure to research reputable brands. Some well-known manufacturers of low pressure sodium bulbs include Philips and Sylvania. I found that investing in a trusted brand not only ensures better performance but also increases the lifespan of the bulb.

Budget Considerations

One of the first things I did was set a budget. Low pressure sodium bulbs can vary in price, typically ranging from $10 to $30 per bulb. I found that while the initial cost might be higher than traditional bulbs, the energy savings and longevity made them a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Installation Tips

When I installed my low pressure sodium bulbs, I made sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It’s also important to check the existing fixtures to ensure they are compatible with LPS bulbs. If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, I recommend hiring a professional to ensure everything is set up safely.

my journey with low pressure sodium bulbs has been quite positive. By understanding their benefits, knowing where to use them, choosing the right wattage, and selecting quality brands, I was able to make a smart purchase. If you’re considering LPS bulbs for your lighting needs, I hope my guide helps you find the right fit for your situation!

Author Profile

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Joan Rivera
Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.

Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.