What's the difference between PIR and photocell controls for outside lights?

Purchasing lights for the outside of your home can be a challenge. You may have noticed the words PIR on one type of lightbox and photocell on another, which can be confusing. Do you understand the distinction between the two? If not, don't worry; we're here to assist you.

Outside lights with PIR, which stands for passive infrared, detect you as you walk by, whereas photocell lights provide light from dawn to dusk.

Sensors control both PIR and photocell lights. This sensor is activated in the case of PIR lights when it detects movement in front of it. This could be from anything; it could be from someone walking by, or it could be from something as simple as a cat walking by. This is determined by how the sensor is configured. However, you won't have to worry about your lights constantly turning on and off because the range of the sensor on these lights is usually only around 8m, so any movement will have to be pretty close.

Photocell lights, on the other hand, are activated by a sensor that detects the absence of light. This means that your outside light will turn on as soon as it is dark. The light will then remain lit until the sensor detects outside light again, i.e., when the sun rises and morning arrives.

So, which type of lighting is the best? That depends entirely on personal preference and the reason for installing the light. A photocell light is probably the best option for deterring intruders and constantly illuminating outside areas of your home. A PIR light is ideal if you only need a light that will turn on and off intermittently. Both have advantages and disadvantages. One disadvantage of PIR lights is that they can be activated during the day. However, there is a solution in another perplexing type of light, PIR with a photocell! PIR with photocell lights provides all of the advantages of a PIR light but can only be activated at night.

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