Ecmweb 17849 Service Secrets Talbot Pr
Ecmweb 17849 Service Secrets Talbot Pr
Ecmweb 17849 Service Secrets Talbot Pr
Ecmweb 17849 Service Secrets Talbot Pr
Ecmweb 17849 Service Secrets Talbot Pr

Illuminating the Path to Safety and Security

Sept. 20, 2019
Installing the proper outdoor lighting at your client’s home or business is a win-win for everyone.

Have you ever walked outside your house at night to grab something from your car and felt like someone or something is watching you? The truth of the matter is, there might be, and you might never know. Or, have you ever walked outside and tripped on the garden hose your kid left lying on the ground because you didn’t see it? Lighting is something we take for granted — so much so that we often forget to install it outside of our homes and businesses. Now that we’re approaching the time of year when the days get shorter, outdoor lighting installations — and the proper electrical systems to support them — are a great opportunity to improve your clients’ safety and your business’ bottom line at the same time.  

By definition, security lighting is lighting that is intended to deter or detect intrusions or other criminal activity on a piece of property. The right lighting can effectively prevent some crime from ever happening simply by shedding some light. In some studies, lighting has been shown to reduce crime by 39%. Of course, opinions vary on the actual proof that security lighting will prevent crime in a specific area, but I think we can agree it’s better to shed light on illegal activity than keep it in the dark. Even if you’re pretty sure your business, house, and/or neighborhood isn’t likely to be affected by crime, properly illuminating outdoor spaces offers other benefits, such as minimizing trip and fall hazards and discouraging wild animals from hunting for nearby garbage. The right type of lighting can make your life safer and give you peace of mind.

Fortunately, there are numerous types of security lighting from which to choose. Floodlights are one of the most common security lights on the market today. Although popular, the effectiveness of a floodlight depends on its placement, height, and the quality of installation. For example, if it isn’t placed in the correct spot, then the light may not illuminate the desired area and render it ineffective in providing enough brightness to see. If the light is placed too close to other lights, the coverage of the other light may interfere with the operation of the photocell sensor in knowing when to come on. If the light is placed near objects that move when the wind blows, it could trigger the motion detection on the light and cause the light to go off and on. 

Years ago, I used to install a bunch of landscape lights, and I was surprised at the amount of people who wanted them for safety reasons. Think about it. You light up the house and yard area, but you are also illuminating the walkways in some cases. This application proves very useful in providing the necessary amount of lighting to be able to see where you are going when the sun goes down. There are many ways to use lighting to provide safety and security nowadays, so having an affordable way to light up a residence or business shouldn’t be an issue. Following are a few tips and ideas to keep top of mind when installing security lights:

1. Research the type of light you will be using, and make sure the product will best fit the needs of the property.

2. Follow all manufacturing specifications when installing the lights.

3. Remember to also follow all applicable codes in the jurisdiction having authority.

On a personal note, you may want the color of the light to complement the exterior finishes of the house or business. Also, make sure it has enough lumens and wattage to provide proper illumination.    

Talbot is a licensed, master electrician in Georgia, where he was born and raised. He has been in the industry for 18 years and is currently the operations manager for Mister Sparky Atlanta, where he manages a team of technicians. In his spare time, he plays with his kids, volunteers, and enjoys flipping houses. He can be reached at [email protected].

About the Author

Gerald Talbot | Operations Manager

Gerald is a licensed, master electrician in Georgia, where he was born and raised. He has been in the industry for 17 years and is currently the operations manager for Mister Sparky Atlanta, where he manages a team of technicians.

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