Outdoor motion sensor lights serve a crucial role in deterring criminally-inclined folks from pushing through with their schemes. When activated, the lights can startle burglars and intruders and warn unknowing occupants. Motion sensor lights also come in handy for illuminating outdoor spaces to improve accessibility during the night. Also, they only switch on when needed, so you can minimise your energy consumption, especially if you have a spacious outdoor area.
However, while motion detector lights are designed to work smoothly, they can fail sometimes. They also have a limited lifespan. Some models can last up to 100,000 hours, while others may have a shorter lifespan. If you notice anything wrong with your sensor lights, it’s best to call in an expert to lend you a hand.
Common Motion Detector Light Problems
A motion detecting outdoor light is specifically designed to turn on and off when it detects changes in the immediate surroundings. However, if the sensors get dirty or if one or more of its components break, the device will malfunction. A lot of things can go wrong with a motion detector light. Some of the common issues include:
- Lights that won’t turn on
- Lights that stay on even without motion detected
- Too short or too long light duration
- Sensors that can’t detect movement at all
To fix motion sensor light problems, you must identify what type you use. This will help you test for issues and discuss them with the specialist you will hire.
Generally, you can find three types of sensor lights in the market. The first type is referred to as active sensors, which actively scan the room to detect changes. It is equipped with sensors designed to detect fluctuations in radio waves, sound waves, and microwave pulses. There are also passive infrared sensors that scan heat, radiation, and infrared changes in a room. You can also shop for dual tech sensors that combine the technologies used in PIR and active sensors.
Troubleshooting a Faulty Light Sensor
Oftentimes, the root cause of a faulty motion detector light is a dirty sensor. Quickly check the sensor and see if they’re grimy or filled with debris. Use a soft and clean rug to tidy up the sensor. If that doesn’t solve the problem, then you will need to manually turn it off and on. By doing so, you can recalibrate the settings and hopefully get it running normally again.
If the problem persists, try changing the batteries or the bulb. Alternatively, you can contact a technician. This will help you avoid guessing what went wrong and ensure that your light sensor gets fixed or replaced, depending on the situation.
Choose from a Variety of Outdoor Light Sensors
For lighting fixtures beyond repair, it may be better to have them replaced with a newer and more up-to-date model. It’s the practical option, especially for extremely worn out They come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, perfect if you’re keen on the exterior design of your home. Here are some of the most common brands of light sensors you can find in New Zealand:
- Mercator Lighting
- Telbix
- Martec Lighting
- Domus Lighting
- Eglo Lighting
- Superlux
- Sunny Lighting
- CLA Lighting
Trust a Local Expert to Help you!
Motion sensor lights definitely make a great addition to your home, and they don’t cost that much to install. They’re also quite inexpensive to repair or replace. If you notice issues with your motion sensor lights, feel free to approach a local expert near you. This way, you can get them repaired in no time. In case the fixture is beyond repair, you can consult with a local expert to know which brand and model would best suit as a replacement.
