Security & Sensor Lights

What are Sensor Lights

Security lights are an indispensable addition to outdoor spaces. They provide peace of mind on more than one level. Sensor lights deter unwelcome guests, support movement at night, add dynamics to outdoor space, and eliminate the worries about turning the lights on and off.  

LED sensor lights outdoor can be activated by a switch, as a traditional option that still works today. However, motion sensor lights are more convenient, widely available and affordable, and much better in securing the property. 

Advantages of Security Lights

Outdoor security lights greatly enhance the convenience and a sense of safety. With the landscape lighting equipped with motion sensors, it's easy to know when someone approaches. Outdoor sensor lights help keep the situation under control, whether to welcome a guest or deter unwanted visitors from coming too close to the house.

For even better efficiency, this type of light will typically light itself when it gets dark and turn off again in the daylight. That way, there is no need to worry if all the lights were turned off before leaving for holidays. 

Managing the lighting autonomously lowers energy spending and, consequently, the amounts on electricity bills. With an LED solar sensor light, the savings will be even more considerable.

A security light sensor can be utilised as an alarm. Motion sensors respond to any significant movement in their surrounding. Proximity detectors are even more sensitive and perform a constant sweep of the area, in addition to making a consistent measurement of light.

Where to Use Motion Sensor Lights

For security purposes, the rule of thumb is to mount outdoor wall lights with a sensor about 2-3 meters above the ground. Sensitivity zones need to spread in a way that will help them register most movements. For maximum efficiency, a motion sensor light should cover the walks between the front and back doors and the driveway. That way, the lights will trigger when the residents come home at night for added convenience. 

Sensor lights also come in the forms of bollard lights and driveway lights. They can be used to light up decks, patios and all kinds of potentially hazardous locations such as stairways and swimming pools.

For even more improved security, the motion sensor lights can be installed to cover all the house approaches, including patio doors, fence gates, and all the dark areas such as corners, tree shadows, and bushes. Good sensor lighting is one of the best low-cost ways to discourage potential intruders in advance.

Sensor garden lights should not upset the neighbourhood. It's best to place them in a way that won't send constant flashes into their own garden or home.

Another vital thing to consider is that PIR detectors are very sensitive, and even a small pet or a bird can activate the motion sensor. They become even more susceptible on cold winter nights. 

Types of Security Lighting

Motion Sensor Lights

Motion sensor lights detect movement with the help of a PIR sensor (passive infrared sensor) that measures IR (infrared) light radiating from objects in its range of view. PIR sensors can scan the field and angle and will activate the light when a motion is detected. Depending on the type of light, it can work with any bulb as long as it is fit for outdoor use.

Solar PIR lights

PIR solar lights turn sunlight into security lighting over an LED light source. One charge typically provides up to 6 hours of ample light.

LED Floodlights

LED lighting is a great way to save energy, alongside other advantages such as low maintenance requirements and longevity.

Halogen Floodlights

Halogen flood lights are the most popular type of outside security lights - but also the most expensive. Halogen bulbs are intensive and emit a brisk white light that illuminates a large area.

Types of Motion Sensors

• Passive motion sensors are widely used due to ease of installation and use. They are designed to detect changes in temperature by receiving infrared radiation.
• Active motion sensors by microwave rely on microwave emission. If something disrupts the waves, the sensor will detect a variation and activate security lighting. This type of sensor is more susceptible, with better detection capacity than passive motion sensors.
• Twilight sensors detect the excess or defect of lighting inside the perimeter. It can be programmed to turn the light on when the lighting level is below the indicated.

Things to Consider Before Buying Sensor Lights

It's important to pay attention to the overall running costs. Except for LED sensor lights and solar powered sensor lights, the expenses can add up.

Lights that stay permanently on can disorientate bats and night birds such as owls, or provoke day-flying birds to sing during the night.

Floodlights should be installed at least 2 metres above ground to ensure maximum effectiveness. 

Placing a sensor light behind plants or inside shrubbery can make an attractive effect.

If you need help to find the best sensor lights for your property, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.