Installing Motion Detectors

Overview: Installing motion detectors will over security for your home. Motion detector can turn on outside lights and give you earning of uninvited guests.

Installing motion detectors on your outside lights is a smart way to provide safety for your family and any night time visiting guests. In addition, outdoor motion detectors also serve as a security measure in as much as if a prowler coming within the range of the detector sensor the lights will turn on. The motion detector sensor simply sensors motion turns on the lights or sounds a motion sensor alarm when motion is detected within the range of the detector. The lights will turn off automatically after the set timer runs down to zero. They are typically arranged along walkways, driveways, and back yard areas.

DIY installation of motion detector is quite easy. There are many motion sensor security units on the market today that are pre-wired and pre-assembled. All you need to do is replace an existing outdoor light fixture, set the motion detector, and in minutes you will have the added safety and security protection for your home. Unfortunately if you live in a rural area where wild animals come near the house the detector will trip causing the lights to come on. In addition, swaying trees during heavy winds will also trip the detector. Setting the sensor will resolve most of these problems. We live in a rural area where deer come close to the house during the winter season and frequently trip the detector. We view this occurrence in a positive light as we enjoy seeing the deer.

Installing a motion detector or a light fixture with a motion detector installed, is an easy DIY project. Simply follow the steps below. If you are not comfortable working on a light circuit, call your local electrician to perform this task for you.

1. The most important step in the process is to turn off the power at the breaker box first.

2. Always test the circuit with a voltage tester to insure that the power in turned off.

3. Remove any existing light fixture.

4. Match the existing screw holes on the cover plate with the new fixture. Caulk any open holes that will not be used to eliminate water leakage.

5. Thread the new fixture wires through the cover plate gasket and connect them with the house wires. Be sure you connect the black wire to black, white wire to white, and the bare copper wire to the ground wire.

6. Use wire nuts to secure the wires to each other.

7. Attach the junction box with screws.

8. Once the light fixture is in place add motion detector bulbs. They can be purchased at any home improvement store.

9. Close the circuit breaker to turn the power back on. Test the newly installed light by using the test switch and sensor switch on the bottom of the detector. Put the switch in the test mode and then set the level of sensory about half way.

10. With the light switch in the on position the light will come on for about 30 to 45 seconds. When the light comes on you can position the lights into the direction of the yard that you want covered. If necessary set the sensory to the desired level.

That is all there is to it. Installing motion detectors to your outdoor lights will go a long way in providing safety and security for your home.