150w Oval PIR Halogen Security Floodlight

Halogen security floodlights aren't inherently bad, though they they can waste a lot of power and cost a lot to run.

What is bad about most domestic halogen security floodlights, or 'Rottweiller insecurity lights' as they are known by victims, is not their design, but how often they are used carelessly by their owners, shining bright, glaring light beyond boundaries into streets and other houses and gardens.

Floodlights are great for lighting a large area from high above, with the face of the fixture close to parallel with the ground, and the actual light source outside the users field of view. Unfortunately, most floodlight fittings are mounted at eye level and tilted to shine horizontally, creating the maximum amount of eye-watering glare, and providing pools of darkness where intruders can hide invisibly.

Usually a hugely overpowered 500w light is used, often triggered by a poor quality PIR sensor activated by passing stray cats. However, a well sited 150 watt floodlight can provide far superior lighting to a badly sited 500w one. Less can be more - and can save you money too.

Tool Up UK	£14.10
Delivery: £5.99 all UK
QVS Electrical	£15.22
Delivery: £4.99 most Mainland. £14.99 for Scottish Highlands - Blech!
Prices include VAT at 15%. They are correct at time of site publication, but may have been changed by the seller since. Dark Sky Lighting is not responsible for pricing variations on third-party sites.

150w Oval PIR Floodlight features.
The 150w Oval PIR Floodlight is not quite 'dark sky' or 'sky friendly', as it isn't a full cut-off design. It is, however, an extremely well constructed weather-resistant aluminium PIR operated halogen floodlight which, properly used, can greatly reduce glare and power consumption when compared to 'standard' halogen floodlights.

It achieves this through 3 features

• a practical PIR detector - adjustable in range, sensitivity and duration
• a cowled 'head' which overhangs the bulb to prevent light spreading upwards
• a head which can be adjusted to ensure the beam is kept down and targeted

If you really prefer a 'conventional' halogen floodlight, then this is the one to go for. It's easy to site, very adjustable, and if used sensibly should provide reliable and effective lighting whilst helping you to reduce power consumption and light pollution.

Remember, the best light is one that is switched off when you don't need it!

Review Criteria
Potential power savings
Takes energy-saving bulb
Glare reduction
Downward light control to reduce light pollution
Overall rating: GOOD
Bottom line: For those who prefer a 'traditional' halogen floodlight, this is a good balance between the beam power and control of a 'conventional' floodlight and the downward angle of a genuine 'dark sky' light. However, the beam direction MUST be controlled with care to minimise glare, and PIR adjusted carefully to maximise power savings and avoid accidental triggering. A well constructed and solid fixture.
Ratings are based on my personal judgement only, and assume correct usage of the equipment as per manufacturers instructions. No guarantee is given or implied for rating accuracy or efficacy of operation of the light fitting listed.