Sensors and sensor lights are common place in most family homes these days. They’re great to for helping you find your car in the dark, preventing you from leaving the light on for days and for security precautions to keep thieves away!
However, its easy to get confused when you accidently turn them off or want to leave the light on and use it normally.
Why sensors?
Sensors are a great way to reduce energy, increase convenience as well as protect your home and family.
How does a sensor work?
We usually recommend and install infrared sensors, which work by detecting heat sources within the sensors field of view. The light/s is then automatically switched ON when movement is detected. Such as, when you get out of your car. The light is then switches OFF after the set time has passed. Different sensors have different distances (field of views), timing options, and sensitivity.
How do I know if my sensor light is on and working?
If you’re unsure if your sensor is working, simply walk in front of it and see if the light comes ON, then watch from a distance to see how long it takes to automatically turn OFF.
The connected light switch needs to be left in the ON position. The light should remain OFF until any movement is detected at which point the light will automatically turn ON. The sensor will be ‘programmed’ or ‘set’ to a time-frame and once there is no more movement and the set time has lapsed, the sensor will automatically turn OFF the associated light/s.
Outdoor sensors may also be programmed to turn ON once it’s dark.
Can I override my sensor to use the light normally?
Yes, most sensors will have the ability to override the sensor function altogether and operate the light manually, as necessary.
This is done by turning the light switch OFF – ON – OFF – ON in quick succession. The light will then remain ON and will not go OFF until you manually turn it OFF at the switch.
When you’re ready to use the sensor again, simply turn the light switch OFF and leave it there for at least a minute. When you turn it back ON the sensor will be reinstated.
How can I avoid confusion?
Where people get confused by sensors is when they accidentally turn them OFF thinking they’re just another light switch or can’t remember what controls what, or which switch was for the sensor. It happens to everyone, because the light switch is on we’re looking for the light to be on, plus the kids love playing with switches which doesn’t help! If this sounds like your house – Don’t worry, we have some sure fire ways to avoid such confusion!
- Place a small sticker on the switch that controls the sensor or if you’re really sick of the kids turning it OFF by accident you can always tape over the switch so it won’t be easily turned OFF.
- If you want a more permanent solution, have a qualified electrician change the switch to a push button so you always know which one it is.
The Ultimate Solution
If you use your outside lights all the time, you would like to have the light stay ON when you’re outside entertaining or you’ve heard noises and want the light to remain ON for the rest of night, there is a special switch you can change to which will make overriding the sensor really simple if the method mentioned above is not suitable.
