Get Control of Lighting in the Farrowing Barn – Use It as an Operational Tool

Lighting is often an overlooked factor in pig housing. But properly planned lighting is not just practical – it’s a management tool that directly influences sow hormone balance, piglet wellbeing, and your bottom line.

More than “just ceiling lights”

It’s not just about lux levels – it’s about getting the right light where the animals live and where the work happens. In many barns, light distribution varies greatly. There’s intense light directly under fixtures, but dark zones along walls and near equipment. The result? Uneven animal welfare, unnecessary stress – and often higher energy use due to overcompensation.

It’s not necessarily more light you need – but more consistent light at animal height.

Hormones, Circadian Rhythm and Fertility

When a sow is exposed to sufficient light, a biological process is triggered: Signals from the eyes activate the brain to produce LH and FSH – hormones that regulate ovulation and heat. At the same time, light suppresses melatonin – a hormone that otherwise inhibits reproduction.

That’s why the rule is: The more light – the more stable the hormonal balance and the higher the fertility.

RN Solutions’ Recommended Light Levels

For optimal performance, we recommend:

• Farrowing units: 200–300 lux for at least 16 hours per day

• Mating and gestation areas: 200–400 lux

• Weaners: Minimum 150–200 lux

• Finishers: 200–400 lux

• Night and inspections: Red light (perceived as darkness by pigs, but allows staff visibility)

Light should be measured at animal eye level – not on the floor. This is where behavior and wellbeing are truly affected.

The Right Light Improves Routines and Results

A well-lit farrowing environment stimulates sow appetite, supports milk production, and helps piglets quickly locate feed and water. This promotes stronger growth and health – and improves working conditions for farm staff.

For finishing pigs, proper lighting creates structure and calm. Animals are more active during light periods, which increases feed intake and accelerates growth. When lighting supports natural rhythms, the entire operation becomes more stable and predictable.

Are Your Lights Doing Their Job?

If you’re unsure about your barn lighting, start by asking:

• Is the lighting consistent throughout the barn – at pig level?

• Are there dark areas around equipment or along the walls?

• Are the pigs calm and active – or restless and uneven?

Proper lighting doesn’t just improve the environment – it improves results.

Take Control of Your Lighting – Once and for All

At RN Solutions, we’re ready to help with:

• No-obligation assessments of your barn lighting

• Professional Dialux light calculations

• Custom lighting plans focused on animal height, circadian rhythm, and operational flow

Contact us today and get the solution that fits your production – exactly.