When living in coastal areas, especially in New Zealand where weather conditions can be unpredictable, choosing the right outdoor security lights is crucial. The salty air, moisture, and high winds can take a toll on outdoor fixtures, making it essential to pick lights that are both durable and functional. Here’s a guide on how to choose security lights for outdoor coastal areas that will not only enhance security but also withstand harsh coastal conditions.
1. Consider Coastal-Grade Materials
The primary factor when choosing security lights for coastal areas is the material. Regular outdoor lights may corrode quickly due to salt exposure, so it’s essential to opt for fixtures made from coastal-grade materials.
- Powder-coated aluminum: This offers protection against corrosion while being lightweight and affordable.
- Polycarbonate or resin: For a more budget-friendly option, polycarbonate or resin fixtures are highly resistant to salt and moisture.
2. Look for IP (Ingress Protection) Rating
When buying security lights, checking the IP rating is essential, especially for coastal areas. The IP rating indicates how well a fixture is protected against dust and moisture. For coastal environments, aim for a higher IP rating, typically around IP65 or higher, which ensures protection from heavy rain, sea spray, and dust.
3. Opt for LED Lighting
For outdoor security lights in coastal areas, LED lights are a smart choice. LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and can handle a wide range of temperatures and moisture levels without deteriorating. They also offer bright illumination, perfect for security purposes.
- Durability: LEDs are less susceptible to damage from weather exposure compared to other types of lighting.
- Cost-effectiveness: Although initially more expensive, their long lifespan and low maintenance needs make them ideal for coastal areas where constant replacement would be impractical.
4. Choose Lighting with Motion Sensors
Coastal areas often have wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and lights that stay on all night can lead to unnecessary energy consumption. Motion sensor lights activate when movement is detected, offering security without wasting energy. These lights are ideal for conserving energy while still providing excellent coverage for entry points, pathways, and outdoor spaces.
5. Pick Fixtures with a Sturdy Build
Security lights in coastal environments need to endure heavy winds, salt-laden air, and frequent storms. Ensure that the fixture itself is rugged and built to withstand high winds. Look for features such as:
- Weather-sealed housings: To keep moisture and salt out of the fixture’s interior components.
- Shock-resistant materials: This ensures your light remains functional even in high winds or during storms.
6. Use Downlighting to Minimize Glare
For coastal homes, especially those near the beach, excessive light glare can disrupt the natural beauty of the area and negatively impact neighbors. Downlighting offers a softer, more natural illumination while providing adequate security coverage. Positioning the lights downward also helps reduce exposure to salt-laden winds and prolongs the life of the fixture.
7. Check for Coastal-Specific Warranties
Some manufacturers offer coastal-specific warranties for their security lights, guaranteeing that their products will resist corrosion and other damage typical of coastal environments. Investing in products that come with this guarantee ensures your lights will last longer, saving you money in the long run.
9. Consider Smart Features
Incorporating smart security lights can enhance the functionality and convenience of your outdoor lighting setup. With smart technology, you can control the lights remotely, adjust settings, and receive notifications if motion is detected, all from your smartphone.
This allows you to adapt your lighting to your specific needs while staying energy-efficient.
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