Outdoor security lighting can be a great way to deter intruders and provide visibility and comfort. However, it is important to take the necessary steps before and during installation for your outdoor security lighting to remain secure and effective.
In this blog post, we go through the steps that need to be taken for a successful outdoor security lighting installation. We will discuss safety protocols, tools, materials, and the actual installation process. Let’s get started on your outdoor security lighting installation journey!
Outdoor Security Light Components
Before you can install your outdoor security lights, you need to understand them. The following are some standard components you might encounter when examining your lights:
- Motion Sensors: Motion sensors cause a light to turn on when — you guessed it — motion is detected. If someone enters your property and walks close enough to the light, they’ll suddenly find themselves lit up like they’re on a stage.
- Sunlight Detection: Some lights feature sunlight detection technology, which allows them to turn on when the sun goes down and turn off when it comes back up, saving you from having to worry about switching lights on and off every day.
- Timers: Timers are also convenient tools that save you from remembering to turn on and off your lights. Timers provide maximum flexibility, as you can easily set them according to your needs and schedule.
- Alternative Power Source: Some lights come with alternative power sources — such as solar power — so you don’t have to worry about losing light just because you’ve had a power outage or another electrical issue.
Step by Step: How to Install Outdoor Security Lights
Now, let’s get into the meat of the matter and break down how to install your outdoor security lights. These steps will guide you through the process and help you ensure your lights get installed correctly the first time:
Step 1: Pick a Location (or Locations)
First, you have to decide where you want to hang your lights.
A good starting point is to hang one or two in the center of or on either side of your garage. That way, if anyone tries to come near the garage or break into/steal a car parked in the driveway, they’ll have a light shining directly on them.
You could also install a light near your front door so if anyone tries to enter your home or steal a package left on the porch, they’ll also be lit up and easier to identify.
Step 2: Turn Off the Power
Once you know where you want to hang your outdoor security light (or lights), the next step is to shut off the power. Don’t forget this step!
Select a power source, then turn the power to that source off at the circuit breaker. Double-check with a voltage tester that the circuit is indeed turned off. If you want to be extra safe, you can also turn off the power to the entire house.
Step 3: Drill a Hole
Use an electric drill and spade bit to cut into the home’s exterior. Make sure the hole is large enough for the electrical cables that will be going through it.
Step 4: Attach and Wire the Lights
The specific process you’ll use to attach and wire lights will vary depending on the type of lights you’ve purchased and the manufacturer’s instructions. Follow them carefully to avoid mistakes that could interfere with your lights’ performance or potentially put your home at risk.
Generally, the attachment and wiring process involves these steps:
- Run the wiring through the hole to the junction box
- Attach a mounting bracket to the home’s exterior
- Assemble the light
- Connect the matching wires using wire connector nuts and electrical tape
- Attach the light to the mounting bracket
It’s fairly straightforward, but you should still consult the manufacturer’s instructions to be safe.
Step 5: Keep Moisture Out
As you know, water and electricity should never mix. When you’re dealing with outdoor lights, which will be exposed to all the elements, including rain and snow, it’s critical that you take extra precautions to keep moisture out.
Use caulk or putty to create a solid barrier around the hold the wires are running through so no water can sneak in.
Step 6: Test Your Lights
Finally, when you’re finished weatherproofing, you’ll be ready to test your lights!
Turn the power back on to the circuit, then switch your light on to ensure it works properly. If the light has motion sensors, walk back and forth in front of it to check that it turns on.
You might need to make some adjustments to the angle of the lights or to the motion sensors to get them to work optimally. Don’t be afraid of a few tweaks (learning to adjust them now will also save you time in the future if they need to be altered again).
When to Hire an Outdoor Lighting Professional
Some people have no problem installing their own outdoor security lights. Others need a little extra support.
How do you know when to hire an outdoor lighting expert?
Suppose you’re not confident in your abilities, or you just want the peace of mind that comes with someone else handling your light installation. In that case, it’s best to call an electrician who specializes in outdoor security lighting.
Don’t guess and hope for the best when you’re dealing with something as serious as wiring lights.
This option is also worth considering if you’re trying to light a larger area, such as a construction site, rather than just your home.
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Outdoor security lighting is a simple but effective tool that can help you deter thieves, vandals, and other criminals. It also makes it easier for your security cameras to pick up on suspicious behavior and help you identify perpetrators.
Do you need help finding security lights or surveillance equipment for your home or business? If so, Mobile Video Guard has got you covered.
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