Keep the existing light
Choose a separate day-night switch when the fitting is suitable but needs automatic dusk-to-dawn control. Confirm the switch rating and have mains wiring completed by a qualified electrician.
View day-night switchesOutdoor lighting control
Day-night sensors: automatic outdoor lighting without guesswork
A day-night sensor switches a connected light on when the surrounding light level falls and off again when daylight returns. Use this guide to choose between a separate sensor, a fitting with built-in control, or a solar light that manages its own evening schedule.
Shop day-night floodlights Compare day-night switchesStart with the job
Which setup fits your lighting problem?
The right route depends on whether you are adding control to an existing light, replacing the fitting itself, or lighting a place where running a cable is impractical. Check the product specification and electrical load before purchase.
Replace the floodlight
A floodlight with a built-in day-night sensor keeps the sensor and fitting together. This is a practical starting point for driveways, entrances and boundary areas where a dedicated outdoor beam is needed.
Browse sensor floodlightsAvoid a new supply cable
Solar sensor lights suit smaller outdoor areas where the panel can receive useful daylight and the installation does not need a mains connection. Check the installation position and the product's operating details.
See solar outdoor lightsMake the decision visible
Separate sensor or built-in control?
| Choice | Best starting point | Check before ordering | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Separate day-night switch | Existing compatible outdoor fitting | Rated load, supply arrangement, weather-protected position and electrician access | See the Red 10A day-night switch |
| Built-in sensor floodlight | Driveway, entrance or boundary lighting | Wattage, beam direction, mounting surface and whether the listed IP rating suits the location | View the Patrol V2 50W floodlight |
| Solar sensor wall light | Smaller areas without a convenient mains feed | Daylight on the panel, mounting height, night-time expectation and the product's installation instructions | View the 1.5W solar sensor wall light |
| Motion sensor instead | Light only when movement is detected | Whether the brief is continuous night lighting or movement-triggered lighting | Compare motion sensor lighting |
Before the electrician arrives
Five checks that prevent a frustrating install
1. LoadMatch the sensor's rating to the light or lights it will control.
2. PositionChoose a location where the sensor can read changing daylight without being shaded by the fitting.
3. EnvironmentUse the product's stated IP and installation guidance for the actual outdoor exposure.
4. SwitchingDecide whether you need dusk-to-dawn operation, motion activation, or a manual override.
5. AccessAllow for safe wiring, maintenance and a clear route to the panel or fitting.
Mains installation should be handled by a qualified electrician. A sensor does not correct an unsuitable fitting, overloaded circuit or poorly placed light.
Verified starting points
Three products for three different jobs
Patrol V2 50W floodlight
A built-in day-night sensor, 3CCT selection and IP65 rating make this a clear product to investigate for exposed outdoor floodlighting. Confirm the mounting position and listed specifications for your project.
Check product details
Red 10A day-night switch
This is the separate-control route for a suitable existing lighting circuit. Check the 10A rating and installation requirements with the electrician handling the work.
Check product details
1.5W solar sensor wall light
A compact solar route for an outdoor wall location where a separate mains sensor is not the right fit. Check the panel position and installation guidance before choosing it.
Check product detailsNot sure which route matches your property?
Send Future Light the light location, the existing fitting or a photo of the area, and whether you want continuous night lighting or movement-triggered lighting. The team can help you narrow the product category before you order.
Ask Future Light for help