Homeowners now have the option of having custom home automation devices installed in their homes. Two of these are motion sensors and timers for your home’s lighting system. However, some homeowners are having a hard time choosing between the two.
Motion Sensors
Motion sensors allow your lighting system to activate only when they’re needed, especially your outdoor areas. The advantage of motion sensors is that they’re extremely energy-efficient. This is because most rooms in your home are only used at specific times of the day, and, when everyone is absent from the room, the motion sensor will automatically turn the lights off for you. Despite the small lag between the time everyone leaves and when the lights shut off, less energy is still consumed. The sensor can also act as a deterrent against intruders since they’ll be less likely continue with their plans once the sensor detects them and turns on the lights.
One downside of this system, however, is the lack of control you get with the sensor. Some sensors can turn everything on at the slightest bit of movement in a room you don’t plan on spending much time inside. This can get annoying and rather wasteful. Another disadvantage is that your lights may shut off if the person in the room is too still, making the sensors think the room is empty when it isn’t. For assistance in installing and calibrating your motion sensors, a smart home installation company like ours may be able to help.
Lighting Timers
On the other hand, you can set lighting timers at a specific schedule or set them to stay on for a certain amount of time. Lighting timers can be convenient and offer energy savings. This ensures that less energy is wasted by lights left on in unused spaces. Safety is also another advantage of lighting timers since they can be set to activate only at night, helping keep certain spaces safer.
Lighting timers have their downsides, though, as they’re not as efficient as motion sensors. Since they can only be set during certain schedules or deactivate after a specific amount of time, the lights can be left on during moments when no one is using the space. This can be a problem if used in businesses with varying hours, and the timers haven’t been changed.
Which Should You Pick?
Despite their individual downsides, both lighting options are great for any home or business. If you’re looking for energy efficiency and convenience, motion sensors might be a suitable option for you. However, if you’re looking for workplace and outdoor safety, and a better fit for your business, then lighting timers are the way to go.
Turn to WiHome Integration for your home automation needs. We are your number one provider of outdoor entertainment systems and smart home theater installation services. Give us a call at (703) 436-4110, or fill out our contact form. We serve homeowners in Fairfax Station, Leesburg and Arlington County, VA.