Solar Security Lights

Security lighting must provide stronger illumination than solar lighting that is designed primarily for outdoor decoration.  Security lights must also be more powerful, durable, and reliable than simple solar accent lighting.  Here are some things to think about before you buy a solar security light.

When deciding where to place solar security lights for maximum security, you may not have many options.  If the area where you most need the nighttime illumination doesn’t receive much direct sunlight during the day, it may be difficult for the solar panel component to fully recharge.  For example, you may need to attach a security light to a north wall with an overhanging roof where the fixture would receive no exposure to sunlight.  To avoid this problem, make sure you purchase a fixture with a cable that is long enough to mount the solar panel on the roof or on a south or west wall where it will receive adequate sunlight exposure.

You should also make sure that the solar security light is made from non-corrosive materials like stainless steel or plastic, so that it will not be damaged from exposure to moisture.  Weatherproof materials will ensure that the floodlight continues to work even in bad whether, which is when you are likely to need it most.

Finally, consider purchasing solar security lights that use LED technology.  While LED lights were not as powerful as halogen bulbs in the past, there are now solar super bright LED floodlights available that put out up to 50 watts and are powerful enough to light a flagpole.  LEDs are a great choice, since they draw less energy from the battery than halogen or incandescent bulbs, and they last up to 20 years without having to be replaced.  You’ll save on the cost of buying replacement bulbs, and you’ll rest assured knowing that your security light will function when you most need it.

Happy Gardening!
Andrea Kalli
More great garden posts:

Most people think of security features like flood lights, security lamps, and motion detectors when it comes to lighting for safety.  While many people know that good outdoor lighting can be an effective way to deter crime, criminal activity isn’t the only danger that exists in dark outdoor areas.  Dark stairways and edges can be even more dangerous than a prowler.

Solar lighting can provide a solution to the hazards of poor outdoor lighting.  It can be used to light up steps or ramp edges that can’t easily be seen in the dark, or on walkways that cover uneven ground.  For some, the cost of installing electrical wiring along a winding walkway may be prohibitive.  Solar path lighting is an inexpensive alternative.  Other options include solar step lights or solar lighting… Continue reading the rest of this article...

Outdoor solar post lights add a bit of classical elegance to almost any landscape design.  While hanging string lights and flood lights are quite common, a home with post lights illuminating the front entryway makes a statement that distinguishes itself from the crowd.

Solar post lights come in a variety of unique and elegant designs.  If your home is a traditional architectural style like Victorian, Colonial, or Craftsman, there are many beautiful traditional fixtures to choose from.  On the other hand, if you prefer something sleek and modern, you can also find contemporary post lights to suit your tastes.

Early on, solar lighting did not provide as much illumination as electric lighting.  Since that time, solar panel and LED technology has advanced a great deal, and modern outdoor solar lighting is just… Continue reading the rest of this article...

A light emitting diode, commonly known as an LED, is different from a typical light bulb.  LEDs are cool to the touch and can last for up to 100,000 hours, so they don’t have to be replaced nearly as often as typical filament light bulbs.  They are especially appropriate for use with solar powered lighting, because they use little energy, allowing the solar light to give off illumination for a longer amount of time per charge.  LEDs are available in a variety of colors, most commonly green, amber, and red (which is often used for displays on appliances and electronics).  The white LED lights that are typically used for lighting outdoor areas leans toward the blue, or “cool,” end of the visible light spectrum.

LED displays in outdoor lights often include… Continue reading the rest of this article...

Tags: , , , ,

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Leave a Reply