How to Install Outside Motion Sensor Light

Posted Mar 15, 2009 by JohnMessina / comments 3 comments / Print / Font Size Decrease font size Increase font size

Motion sensor lights offer added security to light up your driveway, walkway, entrance to your home and other areas around the outside of your home.

Motion sensor lights offer added security to light up your driveway, walkway, entrance to your home and other areas around the outside of your home. There are a few different types to choose from like a single or double light fixtures and wattage size. They are easy to install and may even fit onto the existing outside electrical box. This will be determined when you go to your Home Center to shop for a motion sensor light fixture.

Material and Tools:

Outside motion sensor light/lights

Screw driver set

Electrician pliers

Electrical tape

Step1:

Determine where you want to install your motion sensor lights. If you are replacing your existing outside lights you will need to determine the size and shape of the electrical box your existing fixtures are mounted to.

Step2:

Visit your Home Center Store and choose the type of motion sensor lights you want to install. Make sure the size and shape of the light base will fit onto your existing electrical box. You may need to purchase a new electrical box and have it installed to match the motion sensor light base.

Step3:

Turn off the electricity to your existing light fixture before installing your new one. Read the manufacture’s instructions on how to install the motion sensor light. Be sure to install the rubber gasket that seals the light base and electrical box from water. Neglecting this step may result in an electrical short circuit in wet weather.

Step4:

Once the light is installed, aim the single or dual lights to the area you want lighted. Adjust the position of the motion sensor so that the lights come on at the first point of detection. This may take a few tries before you are satisfied with the results. Aiming the sensor towards the ground will cause the lights to come on if a small animal walks buy.

Step5:

Adjust the time delay switch for how long you want the lights to remain on. The job is now complete. Repeat these steps for any additional lights that you may want to install.

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Comments

logan24
logan24 said... on April 29th, 2009 at 1:00 AM

Nice article, thanks for the info!

Jannette
Jannette said... on April 7th, 2009 at 9:01 PM

Great step-by-step instructions. We have 2 on our house. Thank you.

magicdarts
magicdarts said... on April 1st, 2009 at 9:27 PM
Score: 1 You have voted for this comment already. You have voted for this comment already.

great advice , we live in a poorly lit estate so will look into this - thanks!



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