PIR Security Light Installation Guide UK¶

Step-by-step guide to installing PIR security lights around your UK home to deter intruders and illuminate dark areas effectively.

Choosing the Right PIR Security Light¶

PIR lights from Screwfix, B&Q, and Toolstation cost £15 - £80 for standard LED units; the Ring Floodlight Wired Pro (£179) adds 1080p camera integration. Most UK homes install two units covering front and rear approaches. ONS data shows 42% of burglaries involve rear entry, making back-garden lighting essential for perimeter defence.

Installation Steps for UK Homes¶

Isolate mains at the consumer unit before starting. Run 1.5mm SWA cable from an indoor RCD spur and drill a 20mm hole through the external wall. Mount the light at 2.5 - 3 metres on a solid wall; adjust timer to 1 - 5 minutes and sensitivity to medium. Connect three-core cable (brown, blue, green/yellow) and test after resetting the RCD at dusk.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Brand	Model	Price	Detection Range	Warranty
Ring	Floodlight Wired Pro	£179	12m	1 year
Yale	SLC-PIR20W	£45	10m	2 years
Steinel	XLED Home 2	£82	12m	3 years
Screwfix	LAP 20W PIR	£15	10m	1 year

FAQ¶

What height should a PIR security light be mounted?: Mount between 2.5 and 3 metres high for optimal ground-level detection without triggering on small animals.
Do PIR lights deter burglars?: Yes - ONS statistics confirm 62% of burglars avoid properties with visible security lighting, making PIR lights a cost-effective deterrent.
Can I install a PIR light without an electrician?: Not if wiring into the mains - Part P of UK Building Regulations requires certification for new circuits. Plug-in or battery units can be DIY-installed. For more information see our LED Floodlight Installation Guide UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the British Standards Institution (BSI).