Lighting & Electrical

Outdoor Security Lighting Buying Guide

insulation and security

For many, outdoor security lights are an indispensable addition to a garden or outside space. With the strategic placement of a few simple bulbs, outdoor lighting can add reassurance, deter unwelcome guests, and boost your home’s visual appeal. While outdoor lights can be activated by a switch, automatic and motion-detector options are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners.

So, if you’re looking to bolster your home’s security and add a little more atmosphere to garden gatherings, we’ve composed this guide to walk you through our tips and tricks to get the most out of your security lighting.

Why use security lighting?

There’s a myriad of reasons why security lights are such a popular investment.

Many homeowners find that installing security lighting around the exterior of their homes provides a sense of safety and protection from potential intruders and unwelcome visitors. Nowadays, many modern outdoor lighting solutions are equipped with motion detectors, meaning they illuminate upon sensing movement automatically.

A light positioned close to your front door, whether that be a PIR floodlight or a LED outdoor wall light, can add to a feeling of security when answering the door when it’s dark outside, or if your home is left empty for a period.

For even better efficiency, outdoor security lighting systems often make use of a light sensor that distinguishes between night and day. This type of light will come on when it gets dark and turn off again in the daylight.

Types of security lighting

Motion sensor lights

A Passive Infrared sensor (PIR) is an electronic sensor that measures the infrared (IR) light that radiates from objects in its field of view. PIR motion sensors and LED PIR lights each have a detection range and angle; if an object is detected by the PIR LED, the light will turn on.

Unlike other security lights that can be left on all day and night, motion sensors will only turn on once movement is detected. Depending on the type of light you are using, you can use any bulb as long as it’s suitable for outdoor use.

Solar PIR Lights

Solar PIR lights are an efficient way to turn sunlight into security lighting. Solar lights typically have an LED light source, can last between 4-6 hours, and provide ample light to your outdoor space.

LED floodlights

Using LED floodlights to illuminate your garden is a great way to guarantee a dazzling beam. While LED security lights tend to be the more expensive option, their increased efficiency means they’ll reduce your electricity bills over time. Their reduced wattage and longevity make LED floodlights a popular option for many homeowners.

Where to place your outdoor security light

Whatever option takes your fancy, the placement of your lights is essential for getting the most out of your security lighting. You don’t want to upset your neighbours, so be sure not to place your security light somewhere that’ll shine into their garden or home.

It’s also important to note that LED PIR motion sensors can be also very sensitive, so just keep in mind where you position the light. Something as small as a bird or cat can activate the motion sensor and they can become even more sensitive in the colder winter nights.

Ideal places to position your light include:

• Entrance doors
• The garage area
• Corners of the house
• Blind spots and passageways

Other considerations

• Look into running costs, which can add up, unless you go for solar-powered, or LED.
• Lights that stay on permanently have a measurable effect on wildlife: they can disorientate bats and night-flying birds such as owls, and cause day-flying birds to sing in the middle of the night.
• Floodlights should be placed at least 2 metres off the ground to ensure maximum effectiveness. Try holding lights up to test the position before making a permanent fixture.
• You may want to consider placing your light behind any plants or in some shrubbery to make a nicer effect than strong direct lighting.

From wall lights and LED floodlights to spotlights and bulkhead lights, we have a wide range of outdoor lights designed to help bring you peace of mind and boost your garden’s atmosphere.

If you’re looking to embark on a new DIY project, explore our Ideas & Advice page for all the tips and tricks you need to know.

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Homebase

Homebase

Writer and expert