Performing an upgrade to your electrical switchboard may be more important than you realise. In 2019 New Zealand reported a 22 percent increase in electrical fires, a high number of which were caused by faulty or old electrical wiring. Electrical switchboards are often the first line of defense against electrical fires, but in many homes, switchboards are instead the culprit.

What causes electrical fires.

Roughly 1000 homes burn down in New Zealand every year due to electrical faults. Many factors may contribute to an electrical fire, however most professionals agree a lack of RCDs (residual current devices) are usually to blame.

Many Auckland homes were built long before electrical switchboards were common practice. These older New Zealand homes use porcelain or wire fuses instead of more advanced RCD circuit breakers. Having to replace a blown fuse allows room for human error. If a fuse with the wrong current rating is installed it may fail to trip when needed. Resulting in overheating, damage to appliances or even fire.

Older switchboards are not capable of powering the more demanding and numerous appliances we use in our modern homes. An electrical switchboard upgrade can protect your home from becoming overloaded, avoiding a fire.

Hall Electrical is here to help.

Hall electrical can help you upgrade your electrical switchboard. Old homes with fuse boxes may need to be completely rewiring to replace the old compound wiring, which is more susceptible to fire.

If your home already has a full electrical switchboard but you are notice any of the following, your switchboard may need an upgrade.

Signs of a faulty electrical switchboard:

• Circuit breakers tripping
• Visible scorch/burn marks on wall sockets or switchboard components
• Burning/fishy smell

Don’t wait until its too late. Protect your home and your family from a domestic house fire through an electrical switchboard upgrade. Call Hall electrical at 0800 422 973 or contact us online for a quote.

Guide to House Wiring Repair and Upgrades 

When was the last time you had your homes wiring checked? If you can’t remember or if you never had them inspected, it’s high time for you to talk to an electrician in NZ. After all, you will never know when the cables or other components of your electrical system will wear out. And, when your wiring turns faulty or outdated, it could mean bad news, regardless of the size, type or age of your home. If you’re not sure what to do with your electrical house wiring our short discussion below may help. 

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When To Do a Wiring Repair or Upgrade

The first thing that would likely come to mind about house wiring repair and upgrades is when you should schedule the job. Are there signs you need to look out for? Here are some examples of situations that call for a professional wiring repair or upgrade:

• You often need to reset the circuit breakers.
• Your household uses plenty of extension cords to power devices.
• When you check the outlet you hear a buzzing sound.
• There’s a weird burnt smell inside the house that doesn’t go away.
• You live in a house that’s been around for more than 30 years.
• The outlets you have in the house aren’t grounded.
• You recently bought an appliance but no longer have free sockets.
• You never had anyone take a look at the wires for more than 5 years.
• There’s a tingling sensation when you touch your electrical appliances.
• Your lighting fixtures constantly dim or flicker even after replacing them with new ones.
• You plan to add an extension to the main structure of your home.
• You need to revamp a space and realize that you need to add in more sockets.
• The electric bills keep on eating up your budget even if you already practice energy saving techniques. 

Most of the time, it’s difficult to spot obvious signs of electrical wiring trouble. That’s why it pays to be extra cautious and vigilant when it comes to doing your regular check ups and observations.

Average Cost of Electrical Wiring Update or Repair in NZ

One of the first things that home homeowners look into before booking in a rewiring or upgrade service is the cost. Many fear they will have to shell out a lot of money to get things done. So will it really cost you an arm and a leg? 

The latest stats on electrical services and repairs shed a light on the approximate costs that you need to include in your planning:

• • Electrical inspections – This can run from anywhere between $250 to $400 depending on the size of your property.

• Replacement or installation of power socket – The average cost is around $150 to $250 but the costs could certainly vary depending on the fees of your chosen electrical services provider.
• Wiring upgrades or repairs – The cost varies from one case to another because no two houses are the same. Also, each household has a different energy requirement and electrical wiring problems. To get the best quote, you may contact us at Hall Electrical Services. We can provide you with a FREE and ACCURATE cost estimate for your project.  

 

If you want to find the best offers in the market, you will need to shop around. Try comparing the fees and more importantly the reputation of the company. It’s also a good practice to hire a local electrician to eliminate additional costs that might end up blowing your budget. Lastly, go for a company that has top-notch customer service. This way, you’re sure to get the best value from your estimated spending. 

Do NOT Ignore the Warning Signs!  

Often people think that their homes wiring issues don’t seem like a cause for major concern.  However, in truth , the more you delay getting them repaired or replaced and upgraded, the bigger and more pressing problems you might need to face.

Essentially if you have faulty wiring, your entire electrical system also gets messed up. Depending on the damage, it could overload the circuits, which in effect trips the breaker. Your unreliable wiring can also cause your appliances to wear out faster and your monthly electric bills to surge. Unfortunately, the problem goes on unresolved, it could eventually lead to accidents such as fires and even electrocution.

Call a Reliable Electrician in NZ!

The key to avoiding all this of course simply lies in quick detection of the problems and timely repair or upgrades of your home wiring. Again, if you think something’s off with your electrical system, you should have an electrician check things out. 

Whether it stems from obvious wiring defects, a dated wiring system, or a need for additional wiring, you should definitely call in a professional. You should also call in for help in case you need wirings for an additional room in the house, a kitchen revamp, or even installation of new lighting fixtures in your back or front yard. 

Hall Electrical Services is here to lend you a hand with any wiring problem or need. Big or small projects, you can rely on us to provide you with practical and cost-efficient wiring repair or upgrades. Get in touch with us today at 0800 422 973 for more information!

Outdoor sensor lights improve home safety, support safer movement at night, and help manage power use around key outdoor areas. A quick light response can alert residents, guide visitors, and reduce dark spots near doors and walkways. Correct placement and proper setup ensure the lighting responds only when movement occurs.

Small issues can develop over time and reduce overall performance. In this guide, clear steps explain how to spot faults, apply simple fixes, and decide when replacement makes more sense. Practical knowledge helps homeowners keep outdoor lighting reliable and effective for everyday use.

Common Motion Detector Light Problems

Motion detector lights turn on when movement appears around your home. Below are the most common problems that stop them from working properly.

Lights That Will Not Turn On

Lights that fail to turn on often relate to power supply faults or failed components. Blocked or misaligned sensors can also prevent proper activation. Checking power flow and sensor condition helps identify the cause.

• Burnt or incompatible bulbs
• Tripped circuit breakers or loose wiring
• Dirty or obstructed sensor lenses

Lights That Stay On Without Motion

Lights that stay on without any movement often point to sensitivity or placement issues. Heat sources or nearby activity can confuse the sensor and keep the light active. Adjusting the angle or lowering the sensitivity usually fixes the problem.

• Sensitivity set too high
• Nearby heat from vents or vehicles
• Incorrect sensor angle or range

Light Duration That Feels Too Short Or Too Long

Incorrect timer settings can make lights switch off too fast or stay on longer than needed. Power cuts may reset the timer and affect how it works. Wear inside the unit can also reduce timing accuracy over time.

• Timer dial incorrectly adjusted
• Power interruptions affecting calibration
• Age-related wear inside the unit

Sensors That Fail To Detect Movement

Sensors may stop detecting movement when dirt blocks the lens or internal parts wear out. Poor placement can also limit the detection range and reduce coverage. Regular cleaning and correct positioning help prevent this problem.

• Dirt, dust, or debris on the sensor
• Sensor positioned too high or too low
• Internal sensor damage

Troubleshooting A Faulty Light Sensor

Problems with outdoor light sensors often start small and go unnoticed at first. Simple checks can help restore normal operation before the issue gets worse.

How To Troubleshoot?

Before applying fixes, identify where the issue begins to avoid guesswork. Careful checks and step-by-step testing help improve accuracy and limit unnecessary changes.

• Visual Inspection: Check the sensor face and the nearby area during daylight for dirt or blockages. Wipe the surface gently with a soft cloth to clear the detection area. Test the light by walking through the coverage zone from different directions.
• Sensitivity Adjustment: Control dials are usually located under the sensor and allow changes to sensitivity, timing, and range. Reducing sensitivity can limit false activation, while extending the timer helps prevent the light from switching off too quickly. Adjust one setting at a time and test the results to improve accuracy.
• Power Reset: Turning the power off at the mains for a short time can reset internal settings. Switching it back on may correct minor calibration issues. A basic power cycle often improves inconsistent operation.
• Check Power Source: Wiring connections should remain secure and free from corrosion. Loose or damaged wires can cause the light to turn on and off without warning. An electrician can help if the wiring appears worn or unsafe. If the fitting shows signs of damage, moisture ingress, or exposed wiring, it’s best to stop troubleshooting and have it checked by a qualified electrician.
• Environmental Interference: Heat from vents, car movement, or swaying plants can disrupt sensor accuracy. Adjusting the sensor angle helps reduce unwanted activation. Keeping the surrounding area clear supports steady performance.

DIY Fixes

Basic fixes often resolve common issues without special tools or technical skills. Replacing worn parts helps restore proper operation and reduces stress on internal components.

• Battery Replacement: Low battery levels can cause battery-powered units to stop working or respond slowly. Installing fresh batteries helps maintain steady detection and dependable light output.
• Bulb Replacement: Dimming or flickering lights often point to bulb wear. Using the correct bulb type helps prevent overheating and extends the life of the fitting.

Choose From A Variety Of Outdoor Light Sensors

Outdoor sensor lights are available in different styles and formats to suit various home layouts and outdoor spaces. Brand choice often affects reliability, ease of setup, and long-term performance.

1. Mercator Lighting

Mercator Lighting offers outdoor fittings that suit both small entry spaces and wider areas around a home. Clear detection zones help reduce false triggers from movement outside the target area. Homeowners can adjust settings without much effort.

Range options include compact wall lights, broader floodlights, and slim fittings for tight spaces. Materials handle sun, rain, and coastal conditions with fewer issues over time. LED-compatible designs help manage energy use and running costs.

2. Telbix

Telbix focuses on sturdy outdoor fittings and dependable detection. Sensors often stay consistent through changing seasons and shifting temperatures. Styles suit modern builds and more traditional homes.

Controls aim to keep the setup simple and reduce mistakes during adjustment. Light spread works well across driveways, side access points, and entry zones without harsh glare. Replacement parts remain easier to source, which supports longer use.

3. Martec Lighting

Martec Lighting develops outdoor fittings designed for steady operation in exposed areas. Sensors respond smoothly without overreacting to minor movement. Designs suit everyday use where reliability matters.

Ranges include tighter beams for doors and wider coverage for open spaces. Standard wiring support helps fit-outs across different properties. Basic upkeep stays manageable without special tools.

4. Domus Lighting

Domus Lighting offers outdoor fittings that suit clean exterior styles and practical use. Sensors often keep a balanced response through warmer days and cooler nights. Options work for homes, small offices, and shared entrances.

Build quality supports long outdoor service life with fewer performance drops. Adjustable controls allow changes to timing and detection range with simple steps. Exterior finishes sit well with brick, timber, and rendered walls.

5. Eglo Lighting

Eglo Lighting combines a design-led look with reliable outdoor detection. Sensors tend to react quickly while avoiding constant triggers from small movements. Fixtures add detail to outdoor spaces without losing function.

Protective coatings help limit rust and colour change over time. LED-focused options support efficient output with steady brightness. Set up guidance to support the correct placement from the start.

6. Superlux

Superlux provides practical outdoor lighting for straightforward security use. Sensors suit open yards, side paths, and entry points where clear coverage matters. Designs stay simple and focus on function.

Build quality supports regular outdoor exposure in residential settings. Light output suits common household needs without complex controls. Easy replacement helps simplify upgrades when a fitting reaches the end of its service life.

7. Sunny Lighting

Sunny Lighting provides compact outdoor fittings designed for smaller and narrow spaces. Sensors work well in side passages, service areas, and tight access routes. Performance remains steady during extended night use.

Options provide simple coverage for basic security needs. Controls remain easy to access, which helps with quick adjustments. Low maintenance needs support routine use without extra effort.

8. CLA Lighting

CLA Lighting offers a wide range of outdoor fittings across different styles. Sensors often cover wider angles while keeping detection accurate. Designs suit both older homes and newer builds.

Products deliver steady performance while helping limit ongoing energy use. Materials cope well with outdoor conditions and show less wear over time. Replacement options stay easy to access when upgrades are needed.

How To Maintain An Outdoor Light Sensor

Regular care helps outdoor sensor lights stay accurate and reliable over time. Simple upkeep reduces wear and keeps the lighting responsive during night use.

• Wipe the sensor surface with a dry cloth to remove dirt and insects.
• Check the fitting position to confirm the detection area still points where needed.
• Replace bulbs early to maintain steady light output and protect internal components.
• Test the light after heavy weather or seasonal changes.
• Adjust sensitivity and timer settings to match current daylight hours.
• Tighten screws and brackets to prevent movement caused by wind.

Keeping Outdoor Sensor Lighting Reliable

Motion sensor lights support safety, visibility, and controlled energy use around a property. Spotting issues early and applying basic fixes can extend the lifespan of outdoor lighting and limit unnecessary replacements. Reliable performance depends on proper installation, regular checks, and selecting well-built products.

When faults persist or upgrades become necessary, selecting dependable fittings is important. Hall Electrical offers a wide range of outdoor sensor lights and accessories suited to different environments and budgets. With the right products and guidance, outdoor lighting can remain effective and reliable for years.

Motion Sensor Light FAQs 

These questions cover common concerns homeowners face with outdoor sensor lighting. Clear answers help identify issues and guide the next steps.

Why is my motion sensor light not working at night?

Incorrect low-light or sensitivity settings often prevent activation after dark. Wiring faults, failed lamps, or worn sensor components can also stop nighttime operation.

What should I check if my sensor light isn’t working?

Start by checking the power supply, bulb condition, and control settings. Dirt on the sensor lens, nearby heat sources, or constant movement may interfere with detection.

Do motion sensors wear out over time?

Yes, sensor components can degrade after years of outdoor exposure and switching cycles. Failure often shows as late triggering, false triggers, or no response.

How do I fix a motion sensor light that’s not working properly?

Resetting the settings and checking the fitting for damage may resolve basic issues. Persistent faults usually need electrical testing to confirm whether parts need repair or replacement.

Can an electrician repair a motion sensor light, or does it need replacing?

Yes, an electrician can repair a motion sensor light when the issue is related to wiring, settings, or the fitting. If the sensor unit has failed or the light is unsafe, replacement is usually the best option.

What’s the difference between a light sensor and a motion sensor?

A light sensor reacts to daylight levels and switches based on brightness. A motion sensor reacts to movement, and settings like sensitivity and timer affect how it behaves.