How to enhance your outdoor space
March 19, 2024
The area around your home shouldn’t be completely shrouded in darkness but instead lit up in a functional and atmospheric way. After all, it’s important to protect your property from potential burglars. Outdoor ceiling lights with motion sensors provide enhanced security by detecting movement and triggering illumination in this case.
Ceiling lights can be used in any outdoor area Places that might well be appropriate include:
- A carport
- A terrace
- Outdoor kitchens
- Porches in front of a home entrance
Tip: We recommend a motion sensor, so you don't have to spend ages searching for a light switch. Another practical, additional benefit of this is that burglars aren’t so keen on unexpected, bright lights.
Please remember that ceiling lights intended for outdoor areas must meet additional requirements. They ought to have features specific for use in outdoor areas including protection from the effects of rain and dirt.
Tip: The following table provides an overview of the IP codes and their specific features:
| Digit IP4 X 4 | Solid particle protection |
| 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Effective against solid foreign objects ≥ 50 mm |
| 2 | Effective against solid foreign objects ≥ 12,5 mm |
| 3 | Effective against solid foreign objects ≥ 2,5 mm |
| 4 | Effective against solid foreign objects ≥ 1 mm |
| 5 | Dust protected |
| 6 | Dust tight |
| Digit IP4 X | Liquid ingress protection |
| 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Protection against dripping water (vertically falling drops) |
| 2 | Protection against dripping water when tilted at 15° |
| 3 | Protection against spraying water |
| 4 | Protection against splashing of water |
| 5 | Protection against water jets |
| 6 | Protection against powerful water jets |
| 7 | Protection against temporary immersion |
| 8 | Protection against continuous immersion |
For porch ceiling lights with motion sensors simply select the appropriate filter, then place a checkmark. All of the outdoor models with motion detectors will be displayed in the list of results.
Tip: Another possibility might be to upgrade to a motion sensor. Also, ensure that your motion detector doesn't allow the light to turn on during the day. If linked to a twilight sensor by default, the light only turns on when the area needs to be illuminated.
What types of motion sensors are there ?
Typically, passive infrared motion sensors (PIR) and high-frequency motion sensors (HF) find application. PIR sensors, slower but prevalent outdoors, contrast with HF sensors, which excel indoors due to their ability to capture nearly every movement. Nevertheless, some advanced HF motion detectors are proving effective in outdoor settings.
Tips for adjusting your motion sensor: You have two options. Firstly, their motion detectors are completely configured and require no adjustment. Secondly, there are motion sensors - and even external motion sensors - where individual settings can be adjusted. Possible settings are:
- The time: how long does the light stay on for?
- The sensitivity of the twilight sensor: at which level of brightness should the light turn on automatically?
- The scope of the detection range
Should you go with LED outdoor ceiling lights?
LED ceiling outdoor lighting fixtures offer numerous benefits, making them a popular choice for homeowners. First and foremost, they are highly energy-efficient, consuming less electricity than traditional lighting sources. Additionally, LED lights have an impressive lifespan (up to 50,000 hours), reducing the need for frequent replacements. Their durability, resistance to extreme weather conditions, and instant illumination further contribute to their appeal, providing a reliable and long-lasting outdoor lighting solution with reduced environmental impact and lower maintenance costs. Additionally, LED lighting can be easily customizable: you can choose light color, CCT, dimming, etc.
What materials are used for porch ceiling lights?
When selecting materials for porch ceiling lights, weather-resistant options are paramount. Opting for materials such as die-cast aluminum, stainless steel, or UV-resistant plastics ensures durability and longevity in outdoor conditions. These materials offer resistance to elements like rain, sun exposure, and fluctuating temperatures, safeguarding your porch ceiling lights from premature wear and maintaining their aesthetic appeal over time.
Our article helps you to decide which ceiling outdoor lights you need. On Bullard Outdoor you can find the perfect solution according to the type of area, material, price, and additional parameters.
