Installing a sensor light

First, make sure the existing light has an opening to screw into. Turn the power off to the light, and remove the cover. Make sure to test that the power is off. Remove the insert. This spot is where you want to install the motion sensor for the existing outdoor light. Run the wires into the light. Finally, screw the motion detector into the light fixture itself. Connect the wires. Combine the existing black hot wire to the motion sensor black wire.

Then, tie both neutral wires together. Now all you need to do is wait for it to get dark to check the motion sensor's sensitivity. You can adjust the motion sensor settings to fit your needs — sensitivity, duration, etc. It's best to position motion sensors to cover the walks leading to the front door, the back door, or the driveway so the lights come on when you return home at night.

These motion sensors will also light the walkways and front steps leading to your front door for visitors. You could also use motion sensors on decks, patios, and other spaces like around a swimming pool or stairways. If your priority is to improve the security of your house, you can aim motion sensors to cover all entrances, like patio doors and fence gates.

We use cookies to make wikiHow great. By using our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Cookie Settings. Learn why people trust wikiHow. Download Article Explore this Article parts. Tips and Warnings. Things You'll Need. Related Articles. Article Summary. Part 1. Turn off the power to the light. Since most outdoor motion sensor lighting is installed in place of a current porch light, you will need to begin the project by removing the old light.

Unscrew the existing light. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the existing light in place. To be doubly safe, have a wire tester handy and test the wires connected to the old light to ensure no power is running to them before you actually touch them.

Remove the wire connections. You will see three separate wires attached to the light. There will be a white wire the neutral wire , a green or copper wire the ground wire , and a black or red wire the hot wire. Occasionally, especially on older homes, the hot wire may be a color other than black or red such as yellow. Check the current electrical box.

If the current light fixture is especially old, you may want to use having the light off as an excuse to change out the electrical box housing the wiring. This is especially true is you see any evidence of moisture or degraded seals around the box.

The box will simply be screwed into place, and you can remove it and feed the same wiring into a new box before screwing it back into place. Part 2. Mount the adjustable crosspiece from the light package to the electrical box. The motion sensor light kit you purchase will come with a small crosspiece bracket with several different holes, allowing you to attach it to electrical boxes of different sizes.

Place the rubber gasket that comes with the light around the outside edge of the new fixture. The new light package will include a rubber gasket that fits tightly against the base of the fixture where it attaches to the wall. Slip this gasket over the wiring on the light and into place. Connect the wiring with a wire cap. You have to make sure you connect the wiring properly.

Who doesn't want to walk up their front porch knowing they won't trip over anything in the night? If you haven't installed one yet, we highly recommend it! It's easy to install and will only take a few moments to configure the metal arm, so it detects when you're within 10 feet. If you have children, pets, or unfenced outdoor lighting and are exposed to high traffic areas outside your home or building, we recommend installing a light with a motion detector. Motion detection lights are great for those who want their home to be lit up after dark when they're walking.

Motion sensor lights are for you if you don't want to take time fumbling with your keys and want to avoid unwanted injuries or accidents! October 8, It is important to note that, when reducing the detection area, the sensitivity of the sensors will also be reduced. The detection area of your motion sensor can easily be reduced by selecting the appropriate combination on the DIP switches.

A motion sensor can be set to ensure a lamp is only illuminated below a predefined brightness threshold. For an in-depth look at each wiring scheme, click here. Access Fixtures is your factory-direct source for all light fixtures needed to suitably illuminate your property. If you have a lighting question, we will be glad to answer your questions. We want to make sure you get the exact fixture for your needs, your budget, and your goals. To speak with an Access Fixtures lighting specialist, call Installation Guidelines When installing a motion sensor, there are guidelines to which you and your electrician should adhere: The motion sensor should be installed by a qualified electrician.

Ensure power supply is switched off prior to installation or servicing. The sensor should not be modified. This will void any warranty.

The sensor should be connected to a stable power supply.