Conscious Choice: Outdoor Security Lights

July 1999 | Sensible Home

Outdoor Security Lights

by James Dulley

Dear Jim: I want to install some outdoor security lights, but my budget is limited for the lights and for the electricity to operate them. Does it make sense to use low-cost motion-sensing lights instead? — Ronald M.

Dear Ronald: It makes perfect sense to use motion-sensing security lights. These are the only type that I use at my own home. They are not expensive to buy, they use very little electricity, the bulbs last practically forever, and they scare away thieves better than normal lights. With new technology and smaller components, these lights no longer look like a giant two-eyed bug sticking out from your house. For example, some new decorative motion-sensing lanterns have real 5 mm beveled glass with polished solid brass housings. You can barely see the motion sensor.

For very inexperienced do-it-yourselfers, there are now wireless motion-sensing kits that install in five minutes. Screw an adapter into any outdoor light socket. Screw the light bulb into the adapter. Mount the motion sensor to the wall near the light and it is ready.

Consider using a design that incorporates X-10 technology to control four other devices inside your home. When the outdoor security light senses motion, it comes on. It also sends a signal indoors switching on a light, radio, TV, etc., so a would-be thief is certain that he has been seen.

For high security or remote areas, a Buzz Bulb can be effective. When it senses motion, it produces a 100 dB screech. If you are handy with tools and want to hide the motion sensor, try a smart box. It is mounted in an outdoor wall and looks like an ordinary electrical outlet box. A dual output (called hi/low) model eliminates the expense of two light fixtures. It provides gentle background lighting for walkways, patios, etc. When motion is detected, it switches from its background 20 percent intensity to full brightness. After one to 15 minutes (you set the time), it dims again.

For the greatest security, select a motion-sensing light with a built-in mini-video camera. When motion is sensed and the light comes on, it starts a VCR. As soon as most thieves even see a camera, they are gone. Don’t just buy the cheapest model on sale. First determine the area for which you need security. Select a model with the proper sensitivity range and angle of coverage. Too large a coverage angle or nonadjustable sensitivity will cause passing cars or the neighbor’s dog to turn it on.

Although more expensive, my favorites are solar-powered motion-sensing lights. These use no electricity, and with no wiring, you install them in minutes. Even with many cloudy days, the built-in batteries keep them working.

Write for (or instantly download) Update Bulletin No. 833, a buyer’s guide to ten electric and solar motion-sensing lights, coverage angle, sensitivity, styles, and features. Please include $3.00 and a business-size SASE. James Dulley, Conscious Choice, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244

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