DIY Security Systems
Most of the time, easy home maintenance and repairs can solve a major problem. There are “How To’s” in your toolbox that are handy solutions for some simple repairs, like how to replace motion sensor on flood lights. It can save the day to know a few household troubleshooting. A motion sensor is an electronic device that detects physical movement in the surrounding area like the porch or lawn, and it is commonly used as a home security product.
All About Motion Sensing
Most sensors have a “motion sensing” feature in most outdoor lights. It is called a passive system that detects infrared energy; therefore, it is also known as passive infrared (PIR). The sensors are sensitive within the range of 8 to 12 micrometers. Sometimes when you experience a light that doesn’t turn on or off, you can try fixing the problem by adjusting the sensor range and sensitivity. And sometimes, all you need to do is clean the sensor cover.
How to Adjust Motion Sensor on Flood Lights
If the light does not turn after adjusting and cleaning the sensor, try this easy trick if you talk more about replacing the motion sensor on flood lights. Turn off the circuit breaker that controls the light circuit and leave it off for half an hour. Turn on the breaker and check if the light comes on. If it does, adjust the sensor range and sensitivity as required. If the light doesn’t come on when you turn the breaker back on, try replacing the light bulb. If that doesn’t work, the sensor may only need readjusting and no need to replace a new one.
In adjusting the sensor, start by inspecting the light and the light fixture that looks like a semi-cylindrical attachment located under the lights. If your lights don’t turn on, try cleaning the frosted plastic with soapy water and a rag; dirt may be blocking the radar signal.
Once the plastic is clean, adjust the motion sensor range and sensitivity using some simple procedure:
Step 1
Aim the sensor by loosening the screws holding it to the fixture and tilting it up or down or rotating it.
Position the sensor head until it is roughly centered on the area you want to cover. Then tighten the screws or ring nuts on the arm that supports the head for testing.
Step 2
Set the “on-time” and switch to the test. Walk across the sensor’s area of vision to determine the detection zone you want to monitor or cover. Verify if the lights will turn on. Tilt the sensor up to expand the borders of the detection zone and turn it right down to contact them. The sensor may also need a few seconds to warm up before the light turns on.
Step 3
Modify or make some finer adjustments on the sensor range using the “Range or Sensitivity” dial. Turn the adjustment to the maximum range of sensitivity, turning it down will contract the range. You can cover the outside edges of the sensor with electrical tape if you want the sensor to detect only what is in front of it. You can adjust until you are satisfied with the range or zone of the sensor covers.
Step 4
When the adjustments are complete, flip the switch away from the test position.
If the motion sensor needed replacement, installing a new one is easy, but each brand has a few different details, so you need to carefully read the instructions. The essential information should be found on the surface of the box. Read the box before you buy the unit, so you know what you’re getting.
In most cases, you’ll replace an existing fixture with the new one. And make sure to turn off the main circuit breaker that controls all the fixtures before removing it.
With wireless motion sensors becoming standard. Even DIYers know how to replace motion sensor on flood lights. If you have the right tool, replacing it on your own can be easier than ever.
- Take the motion sensor out of the box
- Read and follow the instructions that come with the unit.
- Place the motion sensor on its position.
How to Replace Motion Sensor on Flood Lights
Usually, corners are an ideal location, because you can position infrared sensors to cover the most area. Learning how to replace motion sensor on flood lights can be easy with these:
Mount the Sensor
Mount your motion sensor high on the wall to cover the optimum zone but avoid putting it over an enormous piece of furniture, such as a bookshelf or wall appliance, because it might limit the passive infrared energy range.
Connect Your Sensor to Your System
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to link the motion sensor to your system. Most DIY systems walk you through this process. You can use your system’s app on your mobile device or use your system’s main keypad to choose the settings for your motion detectors.
Set Your Motion Detection Settings
Most motion detectors have three main settings when your system is armed: instant mode, entry delay mode, or interior follow-up.
Maintain Your Motion Detector
Dust and debris can gather on the screen of your motion sensor over time and interfere with the infrared energy, making it less effective at motion detection. Clean it at least once every couple of months with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth.
Conclusion
If you are using a wired motion sensor and if necessary, you may apply for an electrical permit at the local inspections department so an inspector can check your work. If the project involves tapping wires to connect the sensor, it would be tough to do it by yourself, especially if you are not familiar with wires and electricity.
Sometimes, outdoor electrical lines must be encased in approved conduit and weatherproof electrical boxes. If you’re not familiar with conduit or the rules for running new electrical circuits, it is best to hire a licensed electrician since they know how to replace the motion sensor on flood lights more safely. Find out more about Motion Sensor Flood Lights