Skip to content
×
Pro Members Get
Full Access!
Get off the sidelines and take action in real estate investing with BiggerPockets Pro. Our comprehensive suite of tools and resources minimize mistakes, support informed decisions, and propel you to success.
Advanced networking features
Market and Deal Finder tools
Property analysis calculators
Landlord Command Center
ANNUAL Save 16%
$32.50 /mo
$390 billed annualy
MONTHLY
$39 /mo
billed monthly
7 day free trial. Cancel anytime
General Landlording & Rental Properties
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

Updated over 14 years ago on . Most recent reply

User Stats

51
Posts
61
Votes
Jennifer Minge
  • Property Manager
  • Atlanta, GA
61
Votes |
51
Posts

solar powered security lights

Jennifer Minge
  • Property Manager
  • Atlanta, GA
Posted

I own multi-family properties that are quads. We have 2 security lights attached top right and top left corner of front of building. They have light sensors on them so they come on when it gets dark and goes off when sun is out. The power bill averages $14/mth per building.

I am considering installing solar powered flood lights to replace these 2 lights. Anyone have any suggestion or recommendation on a solar powered security light with light sensor on it that they can recommend. Also if you don't recommend a particular brand please let me know.

My goal is to get rid of the expense of the power bill each month.

Thanks!

Most Popular Reply

Account Closed
  • OR
845
Votes |
1,481
Posts
Account Closed
  • OR
Replied

My experience with solar lights is that they barely throw out any light at all. They definitely are not security lights, more like pathway markers.

Also, they won't stay lit all night. The battery gives up about halfway through the night.

I don't think $14 is too much to pay for the security of lights. You could maybe cut that cost by making one of those lights a motion detector, but I think that a full time florescent bulb is going to be cheaper to run than turning an incandescent or mercury vapor off and on.

I've got a dusk to dawn florescent security light that is 14 watts. You can't read by it, but it certainly gives enough light to see the steps and to see anyone who happens to walk past. My power bill is also about $14 a month, but that includes three florescent lights and a fridge and upright freezer.

Loading replies...