Outdoor Security
Outdoor Security | Lighting Upgrades | Electrical | Charleston
When the sun sets over Charleston, well-planned illumination becomes your first line of defense. HEP’s master electricians design and install outdoor security systems that flood dark corners, pathways, and perimeters with the perfect balance of brightness and efficiency. From motion-sensing LEDs that deter intruders to smart fixtures you can monitor from your phone, our lighting upgrades add peace of mind while lowering energy costs and showcasing your property’s charm.
Whether you need to retrofit outdated floodlights, wire a new landscape layout, or integrate cameras with your exterior circuits, we handle every step—permitting, trenching, mounting, and meticulous cleanup—so you don’t have to lift a finger. Discover why Charleston homeowners and businesses trust HEP to illuminate their nights and safeguard what matters most. Contact us today and turn shadows into security.
FAQs
Why should I upgrade my outdoor security lighting in Charleston’s coastal climate?
Charleston’s humid, salt-laden air can quickly corrode older light fixtures, leading to dimmer light output and safety hazards. Upgrading to marine-grade or powder-coated fixtures gives you longer life, better illumination for deterring intruders, and reduced maintenance. Modern LED technology also cuts energy use by up to 75 %, lowering electric bills while improving brightness and color rendering.
What types of fixtures work best for coastal outdoor security?
We recommend LED floodlights or wall packs rated IP65 or higher for weather resistance, made from stainless steel, brass, or heavy-duty aluminum with a powder-coat finish. For pathway and landscape security, low-voltage LED bollards and in-ground well lights built for coastal use are ideal. All fixtures we install come with gaskets and seals to prevent moisture intrusion and carry warranties suited for salt-air environments.
Can I add smart controls and motion sensors to existing lights?
Yes. We can retrofit most existing circuits with smart Wi-Fi or Z-Wave switches, dusk-to-dawn photocells, and motion sensors. This allows lights to turn on automatically when movement is detected or at sunset, then dim or shut off at preset times. Smart integration lets you manage schedules remotely, receive intrusion alerts on your phone, and minimize energy waste when areas are unoccupied.
Do outdoor lighting upgrades in Charleston require permits or code inspections?
Any new wiring, circuit extensions, or service panel modifications must comply with the current National Electrical Code (NEC) and City of Charleston ordinances. Low-voltage (≤30 V) landscape lighting typically does not need a permit, but high-voltage security lights and new exterior outlets do. Our licensed electricians handle all permit applications and coordinate inspections to ensure your system passes on the first visit.
How much does a typical outdoor security lighting upgrade cost?
Pricing depends on fixture quantity, accessibility, and whether trenching or new circuits are needed. In Charleston, an average upgrade with four LED floodlights, motion sensors, and smart controls runs $1,200–$2,000 installed. Larger estates or commercial properties with pole lights and integrated camera systems can range from $5,000–$15,000. We provide free on-site assessments and itemized estimates before any work begins.
What is the installation timeline and disruption to my property?
Most residential projects finish in one day: 2–3 hours to install fixtures, 1–2 hours for wiring and programming, and a final walkthrough at dusk for aim adjustments. If trenching or underground conduit is required, add one additional day. We use minimally invasive techniques, bury cables 18 inches deep per code, and restore landscaping so you won’t see exposed wiring or disturbed turf.