LED security lighting
Adding security lighting can help protect property from unwanted intruders. Statistics show that burglars bypass targets that are difficult to access without being noticed. A well-designed security lighting system can make would-be robbers think again.
Considertions when installing security lighting include:
- Use many smaller lights rather than fewer, more powerful lights. Big, powerful flood lights are good for open spaces, but can sometimes leave shadows if there are obstacles such as buildings and trees. Using a combination of LED flood lights, area lights and wall packs will reduce shadows and blind spots that intruders can use to hide.
- Keep lights high and out of reach. It's important to make it difficult for burglars to tamper with security systems. Even the best security lighting can be rendered useless if an intruder is able to incapacitate the system. Keeping lights high and out of reach will make them difficult to tamper with. Placing lights high will also soften the light for a pleasant look and increased coverage.
- Use motion detector lights. Motion detector lights are an effective way to scare off intruders - having a light flick on as they walk by.
- Focus on entrances and exits. Most criminals seek out targets that can be accessed at night without being seen. Ensuring excellent light coverage at all entrances and exits will deter criminals from planning a robbery at a property.
Why LED?
- Efficiency: LED lights offer exceptional efficiency and are cost-effective in the long run. An LED light fixture will use 90% less electricity than an equivalent incandescent. This is also important if your security lights are forced to run on a backup generator. Less energy draw means your lights will last longer on a limited supply of power.
- Longevity: A quality LED bulb can have a useful life of 25,000 hours or more. This is more than 25 times long than traditional light bulbs.
- Safety: LEDs run cooler than conventional light sources and are therefore less of a hazard.
- Durability: LEDs lack filaments or glass enclosures, making them more durable than traditional alternatives.
- Colour: LEDs can achieve the same colors as traditional bulbs. Use the Kelvin temperature color scale below to help identify the hue a bulb will produce.
[edit] Related articles on Desinging Buildings Wiki
- BREEAM Safety and security.
- CCTV.
- Commercial security systems.
- Embedded security: Procuring an effective facility protective security system.
- Home security solutions market.
- Hostile architecture.
- Intruder alarm.
- Lighting.
- Outbuildings security.
- SABRE Security Assurance by the Building Research Establishment.
- Secured by design.
- Security.
- Security and the built environment.
- Security glazing.
- Security Needs Assessment.
- Types of alarm.
- Types of lock.
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.