How to Fix PIR Motion Sensor Lights?

PIR Motion sensor lights are a fantastic invention. They save time, effort and energy. Do you like to install a motion sensor light switch for your home lighting?

Have you ever walked into a room and been surprised when the light turns on by itself? This is one example of a motion sensor light. When these lights detect movement in the room, they turn on. 

Motion sensor lights detect when motion happens or space nearby is still, turning themselves off after you’ve left. 

Passive infrared sensors detect your presence by monitoring changes in infrared radiation, or heat. The way this works is that the PIR sensor is calibrated to detect the level of heat that a person introduces to a room. This is to avoid things like small animals or sunlight from setting the sensor off. 

Other than that, the results of a PIR sensor are the same as with active sensors. The main advantage is that PIR sensors are not constantly scanning the room for changes, thus, saving power. 

While motion sensor lights are incredible, you can see how these designs could easily develop problems that require fixing.

As we mentioned earlier, motion sensor lights usually have issues in one of four different factors. The below four actions should be enough to discover and correct the problem. You can do them one by one based on which one you imagine is the problem. 

Try Cleaning the Photocell

The photocell is an important part of the motion sensor light. If it is covered by dirt or debris that would go some way to explaining why you’re having trouble. Use a dry rag gently on the photocell until it is completely clear of debris. 

Check if your motion sensor light is working better now. If not, try the next step: 

Turn It Off and Back On

Believe it or not, sometimes all your motion sensor lights need is to be manually switched off and on again! By switching it off and on, the calibration may return to its intended position, correcting the problem. 

Replace the Batteries

If neither of the previous two attempts worked, you may have a battery problem. A damaged or depleted battery could easily cause a motion sensor light to malfunction. Replace all of the batteries with fresh ones and try it again. 

Replace the Bulb

If your motion sensor light doesn’t turn on at all, it could be that the bulb is damaged. Try replacing it with a brand new one and see what happens. If it works perfectly after that, then great! If not, it might be time to consider getting a professional in to take a look at it.