
DIY Security Systems
Floodlights have always been an integral part of many lighting systems due to its capacity to produce high-intensity illumination, especially in wide-open fields or remote areas in your house. This article talks about how to set flood light sensor a DIY guide. Choosing the right floodlight for your lighting needs can already be a daunting task due to a plethora of options you have out there, and so you might spend most of your time on selecting. Bear in mind that aside from choosing the precise floodlight, setting it up correctly is equally important. Even quality floodlights can have disappointing performance when installed inappropriately. Before we talk about how to set flood light sensor, it pays to know the different types.
Different Types of Sensors for Floodlight
The kind of technology employed by a type of floodlight determines its functionality and installation requirements. Thus, reviewing them will be of huge help to start your task on ‘how to set flood light sensor’.
Passive Infrared (PIR) Sensor
Humans and warm-blooded animals produce infrared (IR) radiation, which this type of sensor can detect. The infrared energy produced by humans activates the light or alarm. Additionally, this sensor does not give a false alarm even in the small changes of infrared radiation.
Photo Sensor Motion Detection
This type of sensor uses focused light and light sensor. The sensor only activates when it detects a change in light level.
Ultrasonic Sound Waves
Ultrasonic Sound Waves or also known as active motion sensors, can generate sound wave pulses. These pulses can then regulate the reflection of the waves in a moving object. However, an active ultrasonic alarm disturbs animals since they can hear these sound waves.
Microwave Sensor
Like the Ultrasonic Sound Waves, Microwave sensors emit pulses. To detect moving objects, they analyze their reflection of surrounding objects. Though these sensors can cover a wide range zone, these sensors can be disturbed by electrical interference causing it to give false alarms.
Setting Up the Floodlight: 3 Easy Steps
Most floodlights with sensors are set up similarly. So, whether you’re looking for tips on setting motion light or infrared-sensing light, the steps will be the same. Setting the floodlight is an easy task that requires no special skills. You only need to familiarize yourself with 3 important settings involved in how to set a floodlight sensor.
- Lux – This light setting helps you adjust to what time you would like the sensor to work. It has two icons, namely, the SUN and the MOON. How to set flood light sensor in the ‘lux’ setting? If you want your sensor to work on the daytime, then set the SUN icon. On the other hand, set the MOON icon if you wish your sensor to work during the night.
- Time – The time setting guides you in adjusting light uptime. The light can go for about 5 seconds to 8 minutes and will only start working when the sensor can no longer detect any movement.
- Sens – If you want to adjust the sensor sensitivity, turn to the then the “sens” setting. If your goal is to detect even the smallest movement, set to its highest sensitivity.
The Best Place to Install A Floodlight with a Sensor
Aside from knowing how to set flood light sensor, it is also necessary to know where to place them to maximize the protection of your home from burglars and thieves.
Outdoor Floodlights with a Sensor
Outdoor floodlights with sensors are commonly placed at back, front, and side entrances. They are also perfect in concealed areas like the basement entrances. To give you and your guests the convenience, you can also place a floodlight sensor on your garage or driveway. The following are some tips on outdoor floodlights:
- To get wider coverage of your entrances, install your sensor about 6-8 feet above the ground.
- Test the sensor’s sensitivity to get the ideal distance and placement.
- To avoid the movement of the winds or too many movements from passing neighbors or animals, place the sensor slightly more downwards.
- Detection range is also vital in placing light sensor: 110 degrees angle is best for patios and decks, 180 degrees is ideal for driveways and garages. In comparison, 270 degrees is best for different corners.
Indoor Floodlights with a Sensor
Conversely, indoor floodlights with sensors guide you to a safer path in your dark home. Placing it in your hallway is a smart move as it eliminates the need to find your way in the dark to locate light switches. Staircases are also the best place to install a light sensor. It will give you an easy trip, up and down the stairs. You can also place these sensors in your bathroom entrance; it will securely lead you to the bathroom even at your sleepy state. The following are some tips on indoor motion sensors:
- Set the motion sensor to your desired area to guide you even further.
- Be careful in placing sensors so that your pet’s movement will not disturb your sleep.
- Have cohesive lighting at night, set up the detector to switch on the same brightness and color with your other lights.
Conclusion
A well-installed floodlight with a sensor can truly help you with your home and commercial spaces’ lighting needs. To get the maximum benefits offered by a floodlight, the trick lies in knowing which product to buy and knowing the right place to install them. Now that you know how to set flood light sensor, enjoy the perks of well-lit rooms and spaces without the hassles of manually turning the lights on. Floodlights with sensors are available at any hardware shop and in many online stores. Find out more about Flood Light Sensors.