I have outdoor sensor lights that I got from HD years ago. They are halogen but many times don’t work when they should. What would you recomend for a higher quality replacement. I wouldn’t be opposed to using the more traditional flood light type bulbs as they are easier to replace when they go out.
Thanks for the help, KaiserRoo
Replies
I have lots of these motion lights around the house, close to 20 and there are really just consumables.
I agree the PAR38 lamp holders are better but the sensor heads can fail for a number of reasons. Direct sun light is a real killer.Try to put them where they get shaded. More expensive ones like RABs may be a bit better but they all lose sensitivity over time.
>>>Direct sun light is a real
>>>Direct sun light is a real killer.
Didn't know that. That might explain why the one on the north side of the house seems to have lasted forever.....
thanks.
When you understand how they work it is easier to see how they fail. The white cover on the head is actually an important part of the system. They have an IR detector or two behind this cover and it is looking for a fairly rapid change in output. The cover itself has ridges of thicker material so when the hot spot you represent crosses the ridges the lowered level of IR triggers the sensor.
As these get old, sun and weather takes it's toll and the cover fogs up. At that point the IR transmitted through it and difference made by the ridges drops off so you are doing jumping jacks trying to get the light on. I suspect if they would sell you these 10 cent pieces of plastic you could fix them but they want you to buy a new one. HD/Lowes is pretty good about swapping them out if you saved your reciept.
>>>I suspect if they would
>>>I suspect if they would sell you these 10 cent pieces of plastic you could fix them but they want you to buy a new one.
Or, couldn't they solve the whole issue by using 5 cents worth of glass, which wouldn't deteriorate in the UV?
Too Bad
Pity your neighbors. Light pollution is an unfortunate consequence of making these lights so easy to employ.
Also, of course, make sure the sensors aren't situated where the light from another source can strike them.
Consider two lamp types: CFL or LED. Both excellent choices in general. Avoid the incandescents and the HID types (e.g. metal halide or ugh mercury vapor). CFL must be cold weather compatible if you live in climates w/ cold nights. LEDs will last forever, but are expensive. Good light, though and VERY energy efficient.
Consider fixtures that illuminate the area you want illuminated rather than allowing a passer by to see the lamp. This means dark sky compiant and no light trespass (you should not light up your neighbor). Not always easy to find, but well worth it.
Consider controls that fit your needs/functions. Often a motion sensor combined with a photocell works well when you need the light for convenience after dark.
Avoid like the plague: mercury vapor. Classic wall pack HID fixtures. Poor color rendering and they shine in your eyes and not down at the area much. Classic two headed spotlight style lights. There is very little use for these. The technology has advanced beyond the stoneage.
Reply to all about sensor lights
Thanks to all about the sensor lights. I'd like to check out info on LEDs if anyone knows of any. I'll check the local supply house.
The jumping jax comment was right on. I also found the part about keeping the sensor covered to some extent interesting.
Thanks again KaiserRoo