Stairs / Hallway
Motion Sensor Light
I want information about...
- home lighting
- automatic lights
What can it be used for?
A light with a built in movement sensor which turns on when movement is detected near to the light.
These types of lights can be used inside the house to turn on a light if someone isn't physically able to do this themselves, needs to hold onto a walking aid or forgets to put the light on. They can also be used outside the house to light up the path, drive, door or garden at night for safety and security.
You can buy these at stores which sell light fittings or security lights or search for 'motion sensor', 'movement sensor' or 'security lights' on the internet.
Benefits
- Energy Efficiency: These lights only turn on when needed, reducing energy consumption and lowering electricity bills. This makes them more efficient than traditional lights that stay on all night.
- Increased Safety: By providing automatic illumination it can reduce risk of accidents/ falls, especially over night when walking to the bathroom for example.
- Enhanced Security: Motion sensor lights can deter potential intruders by illuminating dark areas when movement is detected. This sudden light can discourage unwanted visitors.
Things to Consider
- Suitability: Consider where the lights need to be and make sure they can effectively detect movement and light up the required area. Motion sensor lights come in various types, including battery-operated, electric, and solar-powered. Most also have a light sensor so that they only come on when movement is detected when it is dark, if they don't have this function, lights will come on unnecessarily when movement is detected during the day. Also consider the brightness of the light. For outdoor use, ensure the lights are weather-resistant. Consider the sensitivity of the motion sensor and how this can be adjusted to reduce the risk of it being turned on unnecessarily. Consider which type will work best for the function and location that is needed.
- Maintenance: For battery lights, how long to batteries last, how easy are they to change? How long do lightbulbs last? Can these be changed? How easy is it to do this?
- Installation: Solar and battery power lights are usually easier to install as they are stand alone and do not require connection to the electrical system, these are likely to be possible for someone with DIY skills to fit, is there someone who can do this. Hardwired lights will require an electrician to install them.
- Cost and Value for money: Consider the upfront costs and weigh these against possible cost savings through lights only being on when needed.