Every backyard chicken owner eventually faces the same challenge—how do you keep your hens laying eggs through dark, cold winters? The answer often comes down to one simple thing: proper lighting. With the right setup, you’ll keep egg production strong and steady all year long. Let’s explore the best lighting systems for your chicken coop, so you and your hens can enjoy more eggs, even when days get short.
Quick Picks
- Morsen 1000W LED Full Spectrum Lighting System – Best Overall
- Hykolity 4FT LED Shop Light 10-Pack – Best Budget Multi-Pack
- Sunco 16-Pack Dimmable LED Barn Light Kit – Best Premium & Whole-Barn Solution
Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right chicken coop lighting for egg production isn’t complicated, but you do need to know what really matters:
- Light duration: Hens need 14–16 hours of total light each day to lay reliably. A programmable timer is a must.
- Spectrum matters: Red and warm full-spectrum LEDs work best. Cold blue/white light is less effective and can even stress hens.
- Safe, low-heat fixtures: Avoid fire hazards. LED or safe fluorescent only—never use old heat lamps.
- Easy to install and clean: Choose lights that mount easily, resist dust, and can be wiped clean in minutes.
- Even coverage: Multiple fixtures spread out beats one single bulb. Aim for no shadowy corners and gently lit nest boxes.
- Durability: Lights should handle dust, cold, and damp for years with minimal fuss.
Detailed Product Reviews
Morsen 1000W LED Full Spectrum Lighting System
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers who want a “set it and forget it” lighting solution that maximizes egg production and is built for year-round, heavy-duty use.
- Key Benefits:
- Full-spectrum LED mimics daylight, heavy on red/orange wavelengths
- Programmable timer for exact sunrise/sunset simulation
- Covers up to 500 sq ft—perfect for big walk-in coops
- Pros:
- Excellent energy savings vs old bulbs
- Stays cool and safe—no risk of overheating bedding
- Mounts overhead or on side-walls
- Cons:
- May be too much power for tiny coops
- Needs basic wiring (safe but requires a drill or screwdriver)
- Final Verdict: The gold standard for bigger flocks or anyone who wants “just like summer” eggs in winter. Highly recommended for serious egg producers.
Hykolity 4FT LED Shop Light 10-Pack
Who it’s for: Owners of medium and large coops who want simple, reliable, and affordable coverage for every corner.
- Key Benefits:
- 10 full-length LED fixtures—great for dividing light throughout your coop
- Natural white tone, but supports egg laying if placed on a timer
- Each bar easily mounts overhead or on side-walls
- Pros:
- Very cost-effective for big spaces
- Each light is shatterproof and dust-resistant
- Long 50,000-hour lifespan means less hassle
- Cons:
- Not a true “red” spectrum—egg production boost isn’t quite as strong as a dedicated poultry light
- Some basic electrical work needed
- Final Verdict: Great value, reliable performance, and more than enough brightness for almost any coop. Just add a timer for best results.
Sunco 16-Pack Dimmable LED Barn Light Kit
Who it’s for: Large, walk-in barns or anyone wanting an over-the-top, whole-coop lighting solution.
- Key Benefits:
- 16-pack covers every inch—no more shadowy corners
- Color selectable—warm, neutral, or cool
- Fully dimmable for natural “dawn to dusk” simulation
- Pros:
- Highly customizable coverage
- Safe for wet, dusty environments
- Backed by a 5-year warranty
- Cons:
- Best suited for larger coops or barns—overkill for tiny setups
- Most expensive pick here, but quality shows
- Final Verdict: If you want the best, and a perfectly lit, low-stress coop, this is the system to beat. Premium, powerful, and hassle-free.
GOBULB Red LED Poultry Light System
Who it’s for: Those who want a plug-and-play “red” light system made just for poultry.
- Key Benefits:
- Specifically designed spectrum for hens
- Easy mounting and safe, low voltage
- Works well with common digital timers
- Pros:
- Plug in and go—no wiring needed
- Long-lasting, energy efficient
- Cons:
- Less total brightness than “barn” lights
- Single bulb per pack—best for smaller coops or as an add-on
- Final Verdict: A simple, chicken-focused solution that works especially well for small, secure coops. Affordable and effective.
VEVOR Waterproof Dimmable LED Linear Light
Who it’s for: Coop keepers in wet or harsh weather who want commercial-grade durability.
- Key Benefits:
- Fully sealed, waterproof LED bar—perfect for messy, humid coops
- Adjustable brightness for precise control
- Mounts easily overhead or on sidewalls
- Pros:
- Practically maintenance-free
- Backed by commercial warranty
- Cons:
- Higher price than basic options
- Requires mounting hardware
- Final Verdict: If you want true “install and forget” performance, this is the pick. Best for extreme climates and high-traffic coops.
Arka LED Smart Grow Light & Timer Kit
Who it’s for: Tech lovers and backyard keepers who want full phone control and automatic sunrise simulation.
- Key Benefits:
- Wi-Fi app control—change timing and brightness from your phone
- Red/blue/white spectrum for best egg production
- Includes mounting kit and built-in digital timer
- Pros:
- Super customizable
- Perfect for smart homes or busy schedules
- Cons:
- Requires Wi-Fi
- May be “too smart” for folks who prefer simple switches
- Final Verdict: Hands-off, high-tech, and always optimized. Set it, check it from anywhere, and keep hens on a perfect schedule.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Coverage | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morsen 1000W Full Spectrum | LED, timer, full spectrum, mounts anywhere | Up to 500 sq ft | View on Amazon |
| Hykolity 4FT LED 10-Pack | 10 bars, bright, budget-friendly | Large coops | View on Amazon |
| Sunco 16-Pack LED Kit | Dimmable, selectable color, premium | Whole barn or large coop | View on Amazon |
| GOBULB Red Poultry Light | Red spectrum, plug-and-play, poultry-specific | Small–medium coops | View on Amazon |
| VEVOR Waterproof Linear | Commercial, waterproof, dimmable | Wet/harsh coops | View on Amazon |
| Arka Smart LED Kit | Wi-Fi, phone control, digital timer | Medium–large coops | View on Amazon |
FAQ
How many hours of light do laying hens need?
14–16 hours per day is ideal. Less, and egg production drops; more can stress birds.
Should I use red, white, or blue lighting?
Red or warm full-spectrum lighting is best. White can work but avoid harsh blue or “cold” tones.
Is it safe to use old heat lamps?
No—heat lamps are a major fire risk. Modern LEDs are safer, cooler, and better for eggs.
Can I use a timer?
Yes! Timers are essential for consistent results. Program to turn on before sunrise and off after sunset.
What if I just want to keep it simple?
Pick a red or warm-spectrum LED, mount it out of reach, and use a simple plug-in timer. No need for anything fancy.
Conclusion
Great lighting is the easiest way to keep hens healthy and productive—even when the days grow short. Pick the right full-spectrum or poultry-focused LEDs, use a timer, and enjoy steady eggs all winter. Safe, reliable lighting means happy hens—and that means more breakfasts for you.
Special Section: Backyard Eggs
Want to take your egg production even further? Check out Backyard Eggs—the #1 guide for US chicken keepers. Inside you’ll find easy plans for building coops, controlling noise and smell, and step-by-step care routines.
Get Backyard Eggs now and start your clean, quiet coop the right way