Alarm Lighting Integration Guide¶
Guide to integrating security lighting with your UK alarm system covering PIR floodlights, SmartLight modules, emergency lighting response, and Part P electrical compliance.
Security Lighting Types and Alarm Integration¶
Integrating security lighting with your alarm system enhances both deterrence and detection. Three integration methods: wired relay output - the alarm panel has programmable outputs (PGMs) that trigger external lighting when the alarm activates. Typical PGM output: 12V 500mA - use a relay module (£5-£10) to switch 230V lighting. Wireless smart lighting - alarm system triggers smart plugs or smart bulbs via WiFi/zigbee (compatible with TP-Link Kasa, Philips Hue, and IKEA Tradfri). SmartLight/integrated modules from Texecom (£40-£60) and Pyronix (£35-£55) connect directly to the alarm bus and switch lighting circuits. Emergency lighting response: when an alarm triggers, all security lights switch on for 15-20 minutes after siren cut-off. Deterrence/random lighting: the alarm system can switch lights on/off in a random pattern when the system is armed, simulating occupancy. UK Part P regulations: any integration with mains-powered lighting must be carried out by a Part P registered electrician or the work inspected by Building Control. Low-voltage PGM switching of a relay module does not require Part P. Popular UK security lights: Steinel XLED PRO 2 (£60-£90, PIR floodlight, 20m range), Philips Hue outdoor lights (£50-£120, smart, zigbee), and LAP Security Floodlight (£15-£30 from Screwfix, standard PIR floodlight).
Installation and Configuration of Integrated Lighting¶
Alarm-triggered lighting: configure a panel PGM output to activate on alarm. Set the output as 'Strobe follows alarm' or 'Lighting follows alarm' in the installer menu. Connect the PGM to a relay module (Finder 12V 8A relay £8 from RS Components or Screwfix). The relay switches the 230V lighting circuit. For smart bulb integration: the alarm communicator (SmartCom or CloudLink) sends a HTTP/HTTPS command to the smart home hub when the alarm triggers. Configure in the alarm app under Integration/Smart Home. Compatible with Alexa Routines, Google Home, and IFTTT applets. Deterrence lighting: set up random lighting activation in the alarm panel schedule. Most panels support 4-8 time periods for output activation. Programme exterior lights to turn on at dusk and off at 11pm, with random activation of internal lights. Randomised lighting reduces burglary risk by 30% according to UK crime prevention studies. Emergency lighting: configure PGM to activate all interior lights on alarm - helps occupants identify exits and disorients intruders. Test the lighting integration monthly by triggering the alarm and verifying all connected lights activate. Cost of lighting integration: PGM relay method £10-£20 parts, smart integration £30-£60 for smart plugs/bulbs.
Specifications and Comparison¶
| Lighting Integration Method | Cost | Complexity | Best Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wired PGM + Relay | £10-£20 parts | Medium | New builds, major renovations |
| Smart Bulb/Plug via WiFi | £30-£60 | Low | Retrofit, existing homes |
| Texecom/Pyronix SmartLight | £40-£60 | Medium | Professional alarm systems |
| Zigbee/Z-Wave Integration | £50-£120 | High | Whole-home smart systems |
| Basic PIR Floodlight (standalone) | £15-£30 | Very low | Driveway, garden areas |
FAQ¶
- Can my alarm system turn lights on automatically?
- Yes - most UK alarm panels have programmable outputs (PGMs) that can switch lighting on alarm, on arming, or on a timer. Use a relay module to safely switch mains lighting. Smart alarm systems can also trigger WiFi smart bulbs via the app.
- Do I need an electrician for alarm lighting integration?
- If integrating with mains-voltage (230V) lighting circuits, yes - Part P of UK Building Regulations requires a registered electrician or Building Control approval. Low-voltage PGM switching of a relay module does not require an electrician.
- What security lights work best with alarm systems?
- Steinel and Philips Hue outdoor lights integrate well with smart alarm systems. Steinel PIR floodlights (£60-£90) have relay inputs for external triggering. Philips Hue bulbs connect via WiFi/smart hub. Basic PIR floodlights from Screwfix (£15-£30) work standalone. For more information see our Holiday Home Alarm System Guide.
Last updated: 2026-05-31.
Related Guides¶
External Resources¶
For further information consult authority guidelines at the UK Government Building Regulations.