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LED Sensor Bulkheads
LED sensor bulkheads automatically activate in response to movement, making them a top choice for energy-efficient, low-maintenance lighting. Available with PIR (Passive Infrared), photocell sensor or microwave detection, these fittings are ideal for communal stairwells, storage rooms, entranceways, and corridors in both residential and commercial settings.
Sensor bulkheads ensure light is only used when needed, helping reduce energy bills and carbon footprint — especially in high-traffic or intermittently used spaces. They’re available in various styles including round and rectangular housings, with optional emergency battery backup.
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Bright Source 9w/14w/18w IP65 Square Bulkhead White - 3CCT - Emergency & Photocell Sensor£57.23£68.68Out of stock
LED Sensor Bulkheads | PIR, Microwave & Photocell Options
FAQ's
A: At LampShopOnline, our range of LED sensor bulkheads includes three main sensor types: PIR (Passive Infrared), microwave, and photocell (dusk-to-dawn) sensors. PIR sensors detect infrared heat from moving bodies and are ideal for indoor corridors, stairwells, and entranceways where consistent foot traffic is expected. Microwave sensors use high-frequency radio waves to detect motion, even through non-metallic surfaces, making them perfect for larger areas, external walkways, or places where more sensitive detection is required.
Photocell sensors, also known as dusk-to-dawn sensors, automatically switch the light on at low ambient light levels and off when daylight returns. These are especially useful for external walls, car parks, and perimeter lighting, ensuring the bulkhead only operates when needed without requiring motion. Many of our bulkheads are available with adjustable settings to fine-tune detection range, light duration, and lux sensitivity, allowing for tailored, energy-efficient lighting control in both residential and commercial environments.
A: Yes, many of our LED sensor bulkheads are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, provided they have the correct IP rating — typically IP65 for protection against dust and water ingress. This makes them ideal for external walls, walkways, porches, side alleys, and bin stores, where lighting needs to be both reliable and weather-resistant. Whether fitted with a PIR, microwave, or photocell sensor, these bulkheads are designed to deliver dependable motion- or light-activated illumination in outdoor environments.
Outdoors, sensor bulkheads enhance security, reduce energy consumption, and offer convenient hands-free operation. Microwave sensors are particularly useful in external spaces due to their wider detection range and ability to sense movement through materials like glass or plastic, while photocell (dusk-to-dawn) sensors are perfect for automatic lighting based on ambient light levels. When choosing a bulkhead for outdoor use, be sure to select models with IP65-rated housings for maximum durability and performance.
A: AÂ photocell sensor, also known as a dusk-to-dawn sensor, automatically turns a light on when ambient light drops below a certain level and off when daylight returns. It's a light-sensitive control that allows LED bulkheads to operate only when needed, helping to conserve energy and reduce operating costs. This makes it ideal for areas like external walls, perimeter paths, driveways, and entranceways, where lights need to respond to changing natural light levels without manual input.
Unlike motion sensors that activate lighting based on movement, photocell sensors respond to light levels, making them perfect for locations where constant low-level lighting is required during nighttime hours. They’re especially useful in residential complexes, commercial buildings, and security-sensitive environments where automatic lighting control improves both convenience and safety. Photocell bulkheads offer a hands-free, energy-efficient solution for reliable dusk-to-dawn illumination.
A: For indoor spaces such as bin rooms, communal hallways, stairwells, and store cupboards, the most suitable sensor type is typically a PIR (Passive Infrared) sensor. PIR bulkheads detect the body heat of moving people and switch the light on when motion is detected, turning off after a set delay. They’re reliable, cost-effective, and work well in small to medium-sized areas where foot traffic is intermittent, helping to reduce energy consumption while maintaining convenience and safety.
In some internal settings with complex layouts, or where you need quicker or broader detection, a microwave sensor may be a better option. Microwave sensors can detect motion through partitions, doors, or thin walls, making them suitable for L-shaped corridors or internal service routes. Both options are highly effective, but for straightforward internal spaces with clear lines of sight, PIR is generally the most efficient and budget-friendly solution.
A: Yes, at LampShopOnline, we offer a selection of LED sensor bulkheads that include integrated emergency lighting functionality. These dual-purpose fittings combine motion sensing (via PIR, photocell or microwave sensors) with an emergency battery backup, typically providing up to 3 hours of illumination in the event of a power failure. This makes them ideal for areas such as communal corridors, stairwells, bin rooms, and entranceways, where both automated lighting and emergency coverage are essential.
These sensor + emergency bulkheads are designed to comply with BS 5266-1, ensuring they meet UK regulations for emergency lighting in residential, commercial, and public buildings. They are also IP-rated for durability, often suitable for both indoor and sheltered outdoor installations. By combining both features in one fitting, you reduce installation time, maintenance, and energy use,making it a highly efficient solution for modern building requirements.