Floodlights

Floodlights throw a wide, bright beam across a large area, which makes them the workhorse of outdoor security and area lighting. Aimed over a driveway, garden or the side of the house, a floodlight lights everything at once and deters intruders, especially when paired with a sensor. Modern LED floodlights and outdoor sensor lights do all this on a fraction of the energy of the old halogen units.

What are floodlights used for?

Mostly security and lighting big spaces. A floodlight over a driveway or back yard covers a wide area from a single fitting, so they're the go-to for home security, lighting a workspace or shed, or brightening a dark corner of the garden. Because they're bright and instant, they make a strong deterrent, particularly as motion sensor lights that snap on when someone approaches.

Do I want a motion sensor?

For security, it's worth it. Outdoor sensor lights use a PIR (passive infrared) sensor to switch on when they detect movement, then off again after a set time, so the light only runs when it's needed and a sudden burst of light startles anyone who shouldn't be there. Outside lights with a sensor are the standard choice for driveways, side passages and back doors. If you'd rather have steady light, a dusk-to-dawn photocell keeps the floodlight on all night and off in daylight instead.

How many watts or lumens do I need?

With LED, look at lumens (brightness) rather than watts (power used), since LED gives far more light per watt than halogen. As a rough guide, a 10 to 20W LED floodlight suits a doorway or small area, 30 to 50W covers a driveway or garden, and 50W and up handles large yards and open spaces. Higher lumens mean a brighter, wider spread.

What IP rating do floodlights need?

Floodlights are fully exposed to the weather, so IP65 is the sensible minimum, sealed against dust and water jets. In coastal or very exposed spots, choose corrosion-resistant housings so the salt air and constant rain don't wear the fitting down.

Features to look for

• PIR motion sensor for security and energy saving
• Dusk-to-dawn photocell for automatic all-night light
• Adjustable head to aim the beam exactly where you want it
• Cool or daylight white for clear, crisp security light

Buying floodlights in Ireland

We stock LED floodlights, security lights and outdoor sensor lights from brands including Saxby, Endon, Searchlight and Dar, all available to order online with fast delivery across Ireland and Europe.

Related categories

Browse bollard & post lights, outdoor wall lights and ground lights, or see all outdoor lighting.