LED Sensor Lighting

Save energy with LED sensor lights and motion detectors!

Sensors are gaining popularity in the world of lighting. LEDs are everywhere these days, so people are looking for new ways to save extra energy. Of course, thanks to new technologies, LED lighting will always be the energy-saving alternative to conventional light sources. However, the growing demand for motion detectors and LED sensor lights shows that they are also an efficient way to save even more energy.

What sensor lighting is there?

There are two types of sensors: motion sensors and daylight sensors; both can also be integrated into a light source. Both sensors have the advantage that the lighting only comes on when it is really needed. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption. A handy side effect is that the light sources switch on automatically. Some products even work completely without electricity! These are the LED solar lamps with motion sensors, which store solar energy to keep the lights on when needed.

A light source does not have to have a built-in sensor to respond to motion. You can also use a handy motion detector. These sensors can be connected to almost any LED light source and you will benefit from the same advantages as sensor lighting.

Can you control the settings of a sensor yourself?

Yes, this is certainly possible. It doesn't matter whether you are dealing with LED sensor lighting or a motion detector, behind the cover you have a panel on which you determine how the sensor operates. Some of the possibilities here are:

• Choosing the detection angle of the sensor.

• Setting the response time of the sensor.

• Determine the desired light intensity (Lumen or Lux).

• Choose between motion or daylight detection.

Note! The possibilities of a sensor are always mentioned in the manual of the LED light source or motion detector.

How does a motion sensor work?

As the name suggests, motion sensors react to movement. Motion sensors can detect motion by using infrared radiation. This indicates the warmth of objects and causes the sensor lamp to switch on when increased heat is detected. In addition, many lights allow you to set the delay time, which is the time between when movement is detected and when the light switches on.

Good to know! In addition to the classic LED motion sensor, there is also the so-called presence detector. This infrared sensor technology is set to be so sensitive that these products are only suitable for indoor use. LED presence sensors can be used, for example, in an office or home office. These sensors react already when the keyboard is touched or the mouse is moved.

What does a daylight sensor do?

Daylight sensors constantly measure the amount of natural light in an environment. As soon as this value is too low, for example when it gets dark outside, the lighting switches on automatically. This can mean an immediate switch between on and off. Nowadays, however, a smooth transition between the light levels (on/off) is also possible, so that the light slowly increases to 100% brightness.

Which LED sensor lights and motion sensors for outdoors? 

When purchasing sensor lighting for outdoors, you should pay attention to the protection class. The IP class of outdoor fixtures with sensors should be at least 44, but preferably 65. This ensures that the fixtures can withstand various weather conditions. These light sources and detectors are often placed at front doors, in gardens or on driveways. This makes it easier and safer to get home and park cars or bicycles. Sensor technology is also used in car parks, as street lighting or at company entrances. You can find more about this in the blog 'Which LED sensor lighting should I choose?

Motion detectors as intrusion protection

Sensor-controlled outdoor lighting is usually used as a warning/deterrent to unwanted visitors or to make the return home more secure. To this end, you can install LED motion detectors on the side or above the house and patio doors. Even windows in basements or balcony doors can be equipped with sensor lighting in this way. 

What is important to know about path lighting with motion sensors?

Would you like to fully illuminate a path with as few LED sensor lights as possible? Then place the light sources a little higher off the ground. After all, the higher the fixtures, the fewer units you will need and the greater the distance between the fixtures can be. Before buying, therefore, take into account the length and width of the path and the height of your path lighting. Usually, the products are between 60 and 150 cm high. Besides the height, you should also look at the beam angle of the LED path lighting with motion detector. If the angle is small, the light will only be focused on the path and the garden will remain dark. You can counteract this by using a fixture with a large beam angle. That way you can also see what is next to the path. 

Path lights are also known as "globe lights". They come in many colours and shapes. You also have a free choice of material. Aluminium and stainless steel are the most suitable, however, due to their weather-resistant nature. In the category "LED outdoor lighting", you will find various bollard luminaires, both with and without sensor. 

Motion sensors indoors

Motion sensors are popular for night lighting indoors, for example in bedrooms, hallways or on stairs. They provide orientation and switch on automatically without the need to search for the light switch in the dark. However, LED motion detectors and sensors are also very popular in offices or warehouses. In addition, they are energy-efficient as they do not require constant lighting. Sensors in warehouses, for example, can detect employees and only illuminate their area. When employees move around, unnecessary lights are extinguished and necessary lights are switched on. The principle works equally well in office corridors or washrooms; any place that is not constantly occupied.

Are there dimmable LED sensor lamps?

In our wide range, you will also find some LED sensor lamps that are dimmable. This means that you can adjust the brightness of the products as desired. This feature is useful, for example, if you have installed the LEDs on your balcony or terrace and prefer to be outside in the evening with dimmed lighting instead of a bright warning light, which you need at night for safety reasons.

How do I properly connect a LED light source with a motion sensor?

It's not difficult to connect a LED light fitting with a motion sensor properly. The sensor is already wired and connected internally. So you don't have to connect the motion detector separately. This simplifies the process and is the same as connecting an ordinary light bulb. Just follow these steps: 

• Turn off the power! For extra safety, you can unscrew the fuse.

• If you want to replace your conventional fixture with an LED motion sensor, disconnect the power cord and remove your previous light source.

• Remove the LED cover and connect the EU power cable: the brown cable goes to L, the blue cable to N. Then screw the cover back on.
  Connect the power cord to the mains.

• Switch on the power supply and immediately save energy and money.

How do I install a motion detector?

If you are using a separate motion detector, you need to install it between the power supply and the light source. In this case, follow the steps below:

• Switch off the power! For extra safety, you can unscrew the fuse.
  Disconnect the power cord and remove your light source.

• Remove the cover of the motion detector and connect the cable of the light source to it: the brown cable goes to L, the blue cable to N. Then screw the cover back on.

• Connect the motion detector to the power supply in the same way.
  Switch on the power supply and immediately save energy and money.