Your home is your castle and should be a place where you can feel safe and relax. That is why many homeowners turn to motion sensor technology to help deter would-be thieves. You may be surprised to find that the benefits of motion sensor lighting go far beyond the blinding floodlights that we often associate with outdoor motion sensors.Motion sensor lighting has been around for a few decades and has been a mainstay in home security systems. Over the years, motion sensor lighting technology has grown to include in-home options, as well as advanced outdoor lighting options. With a variety of options available, homeowners can find solutions that are budget-friendly and fit their lifestyles.Whether you are looking to add motion sensor lighting or are struggling with any other home electrical issues, Randy’s Electric has you covered. Our team has spent the last 20 years building trust with homeowners across the twin cities.
Not Just For Outdoors Anymore
The great thing about motion sensor lighting is that it has quickly grown to be a whole-home solution. Growing up, we all remember the obnoxious motion sensor lights that would be triggered by a rogue squirrel in the middle of the night, lighting up the neighborhood like a scene out of Christmas Vacation.
The Evolution of Outdoor Motion Sensors
Today, outdoor lighting has evolved into pathway lights that illuminate the walkway as you enter the area. Not only does this avoid the blinding lights that somehow turn the dead of night into Times Square, but they create a welcoming safe path for those entering the home. Looking past the safety features, these types of lights are much more aesthetically pleasing and are a favorite of HOAs across the Minneapolis area.Â
Indoor Options
While outdoor motion sensor lighting has been available for the better part of 50 years, indoor options are relatively new to the home market. Imagine not having to search for a light switch, and having the light automatically turn off when you exit a room. Dad’s everywhere can rejoice at the cost savings alone. With the ability to set up your entire home on a system of motion lights, you can create a nest of safety and security for your family.
Are Motion Sensor Lights Right For Your Home?
If you find yourself exploring motion sensor lighting, you will inevitably ask yourself if they are right for your home. Unfortunately, that is not an answer that we can provide, because it is a personal decision for the homeowner. But having the best information available can help you make an informed decision so that you can feel confident should you decide to move forward. If all else fails, consult with an MN electrical contractor to find out the options available in your area.
Motion Sensor Lighting Benefits
Ask just about any homeowner and they will tell you that the first thing they think of related to motion sensor lighting is theft deterrent. Since their earliest adoption, this has been the biggest selling point for the technology. Motion sensors cleared the path for newer technology like doorbell cameras, all in an effort to make our homes that much safer in an uncertain world.Unfortunately, billing motion sensor technology as just a theft prevention item sells the product short. These systems are smarter than they were even 10 years ago. The no-touch aspect touches on energy conservation, injury prevention, and more. Homes that have young children, elderly family members, or disabled residents now have an option that can create a much safer indoor environment. Those late-night trips to the bathroom can be made much easier. And with remote control options and timers, you set the system up to match your lifestyle.
Motion Sensor Lighting Drawbacks
As with any technology, there will be drawbacks that each homeowner must consider. One of the biggest concerns is a lack of control, especially if you are installing in-home motion sensors. People are creatures of habit and any disruption could be a red flag.As the remote workforce has grown, our lives have become more sedentary, the last thing that you want is your system to shut off all of the lights while you are quietly working at your desk or lounging on the couch only to have the lights turn off unexpectedly.The opposite can be true as you are wandering to the kitchen to raid the leftover Kung Pao chicken. The last thing that you want is to be blinded when you are only trying to sneak in a little midnight snack. Again, there are more advanced options that can be set with timers to avoid this, but they might not be in each homeowner’s budget.Another drawback that has plagued motion sensor technology since it first hit the home market is false alarms. Sensitive systems will pick up a stray cat or squirrel and light the place up like Fort Knox. While there have been improvements, and most systems today have adjustable settings, there is no guarantee that you won’t get the occasional lapse.The best option for most homeowners is to work with a local electrician that can pair a motion sensor system to the individual home. No only will this help you avoid some of the drawbacks, but you will feel confident that you are getting the best technology for your budget. Avoid any DIY options, regardless of the cost savings. Electrical systems can inflict serious injuries or death if not handled properly. Additionally, faulty wiring is a fire hazard commonly found when DIYers try to take initiative. Save yourself time, money, and peace of mind knowing that your system was properly installed by a licensed professional.
Finding an MN Electrical Contractor
When it comes to our homes, safety and security are often at the top priority of every homeowner. If you are exploring your options with motion sensor lighting for your home, avoid the random Google search for a “budget electrician near me.†As with anything in life, you get what you pay for and your home is not an investment that you should trust with just any electrician.Contact the lighting experts at Randy's Electric today to learn more about motion sensor lights from MN Electrical Contractor. Call us at 612-470-0914 for electrical installation today!
