The pros and cons of motion sensor lights (2024)

FAQs

The pros and cons of motion sensor lights? ›

So not only can motion sensor lights save you money, but they can also help keep you safe. Of course, there are also some drawbacks to using motion sensor lights: Unreliability: Motion sensor lights can be unpredictable. Wind, pets, and other objects might trigger the light, even when you don't want them to.

The sensors can go bad, and movement detection will no longer work. The bulbs might stop working and no longer emit light even though the device works properly. Electrical issues, such as a damaged power cord or faulty battery from solar motion lights, can prevent the device from working correctly.

Overall, motion sensor lights offer several benefits that make them a great addition to any home or commercial space. Not only are they more energy efficient and secure, but they also offer convenience and cost savings.

Motion sensors will also save electricity though only turning on when there is not enough natural lighting available. Especially for outdoor areas and parking lots, motions sensors will drastically save money by preventing the motion sensors from switching on when there is already enough natural lighting in the area.

However, they also have some disadvantages, such as high costs, susceptibility to interference and damage, and limited lifespan.

Save Money: One of the main reasons people use motion sensor lights is to save money on their electricity bills. With a motion sensor light, you only use electricity when the light is actually required, which can lead to significant savings over time.

Motion sensor light lifespans vary, but they typically last around 10,000 to 100,000 hours of operation before needing replacement.

A PIR motion sensor needs to be able to directly “see” you to identify whether you are there. Without a professional installation, an indoor motion sensor light led by either an occupancy sensor or a motion sensor wall switch can turn off unexpectedly.

If your motion light is on at all times, there's a good chance the sensitivity setting is too high. This means your light could be triggered by everything from tiny bugs to cars in the distance, or heavy dust! Try turning down the settings and do some testing to see if this is your solution.

To keep a motion sensor light on, you can add a bypass switch to independently power the light, quickly switching the motion sensor ON&OFF to get the sensor stuck at ON position, or use a motion sensor light switch with an ON/OFF feature to keep indoor lights ON.

Do motion lights scare burglars? ›

Motion sensor lights are a popular security feature used to deter burglars and protect property. These automatic outdoor lights detect motion and sense movement, triggering the light to turn on when someone approaches a door driveway or moves within range of the sensor.

Some best places to put a motion sensor light include entry points, backyards, gardens, garages, or driveways. You can install a motion sensor light at any place where it needs to be illuminated at night. Consider mounting the lights six to ten feet above the ground for optimal performance.

While many would assume they only work at night, motion sensor lights stay active during the day (as long as they are on). What does this mean? If your light is on, it will automatically illuminate at any motion detection, even in broad daylight.

Some best places to put a motion sensor light include entry points, backyards, gardens, garages, or driveways. You can install a motion sensor light at any place where it needs to be illuminated at night. Consider mounting the lights six to ten feet above the ground for optimal performance.

Following are the Disadvantages of Motion Sensor of active and passive types: Radio frequency at high power is harmful for humans (active type). Radio frequency in microwave range do not penetrate metal objects (active type). Passive motion sensors do not operate above temperature of 350C.