Those long winter days are rapidly upon us. You may be considering the addition of security lighting to the premises of your home or business. Security lighting can be a great asset when properly installed and used but like most improvements, it takes a bit of forethought and preplanning.

What advantages of security lighting would you like to take advantage of?

• Surveillance
• A clearer view of outdoor home/business areas
• The increased feelings of safety better lighting has to offer
• Discouraging criminal activity
• Safety around troublesome areas like pools, stairs and other trip hazards

The best of intentions

Security lighting can increase visibility, boosting feelings of safety, and is often installed to deter criminal activity. Poorly installed, however, security lighting can be counter-productive. These types of installation errors can lead to poor results:

Low/unprotected mounting

Lights that aren’t installed high enough or with proper protection offer criminals the opportunity to simply take securing lighting out of commission. Homeowners – and particularly businesses – should also consider the importance of a stand-by and/or isolated power supply, running electricity from a different line/circuit, or connections with locked meters.

Poor design/arrangement

Glare that obstructs vision not only renders security lighting irrelevant but can actively aid criminals. Design must be constructed specifically for human observation or closed-circuit TV monitoring. Lighting should be bright enough to serve its purpose. 

Shadows

Multiple lamps of moderate brightness reduce glare, provide better illumination and reduce pools of shadow often created by over-bright security lighting.

Bulb compatibility

Certain bulb types are not compatible with freezing temperatures. Others overheat.

LED

A 14-watt LED offers is the equivalent of a 75-watt incandescent, and a long, 25,000 hour lifespan. Heat buildup in enclosed fixtures on warm nights, however, could reduce longevity, as LEDs require airflow around the bulb to reduce heat.

High Pressure Sodium (SON)

Great for general site, perimeter lighting and car parks, SON offer realistic uniform illumination, 100 lumens per watt, and a 20,000+ hour life expectancy. Great illumination in fog, though time necessary to achieve full brightness makes them poor for event-driven applications.

Metal Halide (HID)

These very bright and efficient lights emulate daylight, making them well-suited for security and inspection applications. A great option for warehouse and commercial settings.

Limitations

It’s important to remember, while security lighting offers a variety of benefits, it is not a one-size-fits-all security band-aid. Security lights will not prevent daytime crime. Security Lights must be installed in highly visible areas to ensure their highest and best use, such as in areas where neighbours or passersby can see potential criminal activity, not in areas without a line of sight, which can undermine security efforts.

Looking to shed a little light on things? Contact Titan Electrical  today to spotlight your perfect home or business security lighting solution.