When most people think about home security, they think of alarm systems and video cameras. However, one home security measure that often goes overlooked is outdoor motion sensor lights. They are an extra security tool to help bolster your home’s defense. Not to mention, they are an affordable option too.

If you’re considering security upgrades for your home, learn how you can utilize motion sensor lights to deter criminals and keep you, your family, and your property protected.

How Do Motion Sensor Lights Work?

Motion sensors act as an additional pair of eyes watching over your backyard, patio, garage, front yard, etc. They utilize infrared technology to detect heat waves emitting from someone or something.

Whenever an object moves across the sensor’s field of view, it senses its heat waves and triggers the light attached to your home. Larger objects, such as people, cars, and animals, emit more infrared waves, so it’s easier for the sensor to detect. However, it can also detect small animals, like squirrels, if they are close enough to the sensor.

Improving Your Home’s Safety with Motion Sensor Lights

Outdoor motion sensor lights are effective at detecting people trying to sneak on your property. When paired with a smart home security system, you can receive notifications whenever these sensors are triggered and view live surveillance footage from your smartphone if you have video cameras installed. You can also set automated schedules whenever you leave for vacation or an extended stay away. 

It’s important to understand the depth of vision and field of view of motion sensor lights. If an object is outside of both, your sensor will not detect it. On the other hand, you don’t want to place your motion sensor too close to the road or have it looking inside your home. If it’s too close, the sensor will constantly trigger movement inside or pedestrians and cars passing by. You should read the owner’s manual to know the dimensions the motion sensor covers.

When to Upgrade Your Motion Sensors Lights

Motion sensor lights can last anywhere from a few years to well over a decade. Like most items, wear and tear generally depend on how often you use them. If you already own motion-activated lights and notice any of these issues, it may be time to upgrade your system:

  • Motion lights won’t turn on at all, even when you try to manually trigger them or reset them.
  • The lights are less responsive to objects when they’re in the field of view, i.e. there is a significant delay, or they don’t stay on as long.
  • The lights won’t turn off after you schedule to (This can also be an annoyance for your family, neighbors, and raise your electric bill).

Whether you already own motion sensor lights or thinking about installing some, they are a solid security measure that helps ward off intruders and gives you a clear view of your surroundings if someone or something enters your property unexpectantly.

Vector Security offers a broad range of home security products, including smart motion sensor lights, to help keep your home protected. If you would like to learn more, feel free to contact us today.