How to Set up a Solar-Powered Motion Sensor Light

To increase energy efficiency around your home, consider adding a solar powered motion sensor light to your landscaping. Rather than running off electricity or batteries, the solar powered light runs completely on the energy of the sun. Installing one of these in or around your home is a great idea if you have concerns about energy efficiency, utility bills and security. Fitting the motion sensor light to your wall should not be a problem for anyone who has even basic knowledge of home improvement. This device requires no wiring and no power source. Just follow these few simple tips to help you get the project completed quickly and easily.

Step 1 - Get Your Motion Sensor Light

There are many types of solar powered motion sensor light to choose from, so narrow your choices to a few that seem ideal. Remember that buying a solar panel light means saving money in the long run, so you don't need to go for the cheapest model out there. In addition, you won't need to keep the sensor close to electric cables and wiring, all that you need to do is ensure that the spot you pick can be reached from the solar panel.

Step 2 - Install the Solar Panel

This is probably the most difficult part of the installation, as it requires that the solar panel be fitted into a sunny position on a rooftop or flat area. The more sunlight that the solar panel gets, the more power it will provide to your motion sensor light, so it is important to consider how much light your panel is getting. You can test this by cutting a sheet of paper to the size of your solar device, and then positioning it where you think the panel should go. Once you have the perfect place, screw the panel into position.

Step 3 - Set Up the Sensor

You will now need to position the sensor. Pull the wire connections from the solar panel, and see how far they extend. Now that you know the range, you can locate the motion sensor in this area. Pick a spot where the sensor is not obstructed by walls or doors, and where it is not overhung by branches, which could set off the sensor during a windy day. Screw the sensor into position, and plug in the solar panels wires.

Step 4 - Position the Light

Once you have fitted the motion sensor, you can install the light. This will have to illuminate a similar area to that observed by the sensor, so that it will light up any intrusions into the garden. Install during sunset, so that you can work out where the light will fall, and then fit the light by screwing into the wall, and connecting it to the sensor.