How To Choose Outdoor Security Lighting

How to Choose Outdoor Security Lighting

Outdoor security lighting is an essential element of any home security system. It can deter burglars, help you identify visitors, and improve overall safety. However, choosing the right outdoor security lighting can be a daunting task, as there are many different types and styles available.

To help you make the best decision for your home, here are a few key factors to consider when choosing outdoor security lighting:

1. Type of Lighting:

There are two main types of outdoor security lighting: motion-activated and always-on. Motion-activated lights turn on when they detect movement, while always-on lights stay on all the time. Motion-activated lights are a good choice for areas that you want to keep secure but don't need to be lit all the time, such as a backyard or driveway. Always-on lights are a good choice for areas that need to be well-lit all the time, such as a front porch or entryway.

2. Brightness:

The brightness of your outdoor security lighting is measured in lumens. The higher the lumen output, the brighter the light will be. For most outdoor security applications, a light with a lumen output of 1,000 to 2,000 lumens is sufficient. However, you may need a brighter light if you have a very large area to cover.

3. Color Temperature:

The color temperature of your outdoor security lighting is measured in Kelvins (K). The higher the Kelvin rating, the whiter the light will be. A warm white light (2,700-3,000K) is a good choice for areas where you want to create a welcoming atmosphere, such as a front porch or patio. A cool white light (4,000-5,000K) is a good choice for areas where you need to see clearly, such as a driveway or walkway.

4. Beam Angle:

The beam angle of your outdoor security lighting determines how wide an area the light will cover. A narrow beam angle will project a focused beam of light, while a wide beam angle will cover a larger area. A narrow beam angle is a good choice for areas where you want to focus the light on a specific area, such as a door or window. A wide beam angle is a good choice for areas where you need to cover a larger area, such as a backyard or driveway.

5. Mounting Height:

The mounting height of your outdoor security lighting will determine how far the light will reach. The higher the light is mounted, the further it will reach. However, you don't want to mount the light too high, as this can create glare and light pollution.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right outdoor security lighting for your home. With the right lighting, you can deter burglars, help you identify visitors, and improve overall safety.