Controlling Outdoor Lights with a Motion Detector

Outdoor lights can be both functional and aesthetic, but a motion detector primarily works to illuminate dark areas of your property when something is stirring. It will notify the residents of the presence of something moving and help to deter any intruders. Rather than have outdoor lights aglow throughout the entire evening and night which can be bothersome for sleeping residents and neighbors alike, consider using a motion sensor.

Motion Light

A motion light is an outdoor bulb that is connected to a sensor. Able to detect movement in a particular range, when a person or animal walks through it the light is triggered and comes on for a period of time. After a bit–however long is set by you–the light turns back off. This type of outdoor lighting arrangement is superior to a bulb that is either on or off at all times. For one, a glaring light is not always on, energy is saved, and if there ever is a prowler casing your property, a light suddenly coming on will be a deterrent.

Step 1: Disconnect Existing Light Fixture

First, turn off the power at the fuse box to the outdoor light you wish to replace with a motion detector. Remove the protective covering of the light fixture by either removing the screws or prying it off, depending on the type. Carefully disconnect the wiring on the light by unscrewing the wire nuts. Take down the old fixture.

Step 2: Rewire the New Motion Detector

Pull the new motion detector light fixture from its box and make sure the screw holes match those of the old fixture. If not, make sure you will be able to attach the fixture to the wall by making new pilot holes. Seal up any uncovered holes with caulk. Rewire the new fixture: black wire to black wire and white to white. The light will have no ground wire, but if there is a ground wire coming from the house, connect it last to the green or gold screw. Use wire nuts to connect the wires.

Step 3: Secure the Fixture, put in Light Bulbs

Now that it is wired, secure the fixture to the outside wall with screws. Any openings must be sealed from the weather, so if anything is exposed, use caulk to seal it. Screw in the light bulbs to the motion detector. Turn the power back on and set the motion sensor. Test it to make sure it detects motion, turning the light on in the process.

Controlling outdoor lights with a motion sensor is easy if you can install a light fixture. The installation is just like a normal fixture, only a motion light comes with a sensor that detects movement, triggering a light. Using a motion light is a better alternative than keeping a light on all night. It comes on only when it needs to and is off the rest of the time, making for a safe and non-intrusive outdoor lighting system.