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Is your Defiant motion sensor light not working? Yes, As a home owner, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the issue by yourself before contact a professional electrician or the manufacturer for further assistance.
It can be incredibly frustrating when your outdoor security light stops functioning properly. Last summer, my Defiant light began flickering on and off randomly.
It left my family feeling unsafe outside after dark. I depended on that light to scare off coyotes and alert me to intruders. After troubleshooting the issue, I was able to get the light working again.
In this guide, I will explain what I learned about diagnosing and fixing common problems with defiant motion activated lights.
You’ll discover easy tips to get your finicky sensor light back up and running. With a bit of DIY repair knowledge, you can have your Defiant light working just like new again.
Here we go.
How To Troubleshooting Defiant Motion Sensor Light Not Working
Defiant makes a wide range of motion-activated outdoor security lights. Their lights are popular for driveway, porch, and yard illumination.
Defiant uses passive infrared (PIR) sensors to detect motion and turn the light on automatically. The sensor has a view radius that can be adjusted to cover different areas.
Defiant lights are generally reliable, but like any electrical device, they can develop issues over time. Based on my experience, here are some of the most common problems with Defiant motion lights and how to start troubleshooting them:
Light Not Turning On
If your Defiant light isn’t turning on at all when motion is detected, the first things to check are:
- Power – Verify the light is getting power by testing the outlet with another device. Check connections from outlet to light for any loose wires.
- Bulb – Try replacing the bulb with a new one to see if it was just burned out.
- Reset – There may be a reset button near the power switch. Press this for 10+ seconds to reset the sensor.
- Motion sensor – The PIR sensor could be blocked or aimed wrong. Try adjusting the sensor position or cleaning the lens cover.
If those basic steps don’t work, you may need to replace the motion sensor or adjust the sensitivity settings using the dial or switches inside the light housing.
Light Stays On Continuously
If the Defiant light is stuck on and not turning off after motion is detected:
- Reset – Press the reset button again to restart the timeout cycle.
- Mode – Check if the light is in 24hr or manual “ON” mode. Switch back to auto/motion sensing mode.
- Motion sensor – The sensor may be picking up constant movement. Try repositioning it or adjusting the sensitivity down.
You can also increase the timeout settings to make the light stay on longer after motion is detected.
Light Flickers On and Off
An intermittent flickering problem usually indicates a wiring or electrical issue:
- Wiring – Make sure all wire connections are tight and corrosion free. Faulty splicing can cause flickering.
- Bulb – Try a brand new bulb, as older bulbs may begin to flicker before burning out.
- Sensor settings – If the light turns off too quickly, increase the timeout settings to keep it on longer after motion.
Light Not Turning On
When your Defiant motion light won’t come on at all when triggered, it can be incredibly frustrating trying to figure out the issue. Based on my experience, these are the steps I would recommend to isolate and fix a Defiant light that refuses to turn on:
Check for Power
The first thing you should always check – is the light getting power at all? Here are a few things you can test:
- Plug a small appliance like a lamp into the same outlet to verify power is flowing.
- Check the circuit breaker and reset or flip the switch on and off.
- Make sure the light switch itself is in the “ON” position if it has a manual switch.
- For lights wired directly to the house, check connections in the electrical box to ensure no loose wires.
Try a New Light Bulb
If you verify the circuit and light have power, but the bulb still won’t turn on, it’s likely just a bad bulb. I always keep spare outdoor bulbs on hand for testing.
Screw in a brand new bulb to see if it works. This is an easy fix!
Reset the Light’s Motion Sensor
Defiant lights have a small reset button somewhere on the exterior housing. It may be under a flip open panel or just inside the fixture. Locate this button and press firmly for at least 10 seconds to reset the motion sensor.
This essentially reboots the light and clears any weird settings that may be preventing operation. After resetting, test to see if motion now triggers the light again.
Adjust the Motion Sensor Itself
If a reset didn’t restore functionality, the next step is tweaking the motion sensor positioning and range. The sensor may be angled incorrectly or something blocking its field of view.
Try slowly panning the sensor back and forth and cleaning any dirt/debris off the plastic lens. Defiant’s “Look Down” models need clear view of the ground below.
You can also try adjusting the sensor dial or switches to increase sensitivity and detection range. This amplifies the area the PIR sensor covers so it can “see” motion better.
Replace the Entire Sensor
As a last resort, the motion sensor itself may just be broken. Over time, the parts degrade and fail. Defiant sensors aren’t too expensive and fairly easy to swap yourself if you’re comfortable working with basic wiring.
Just be sure to get an identical replacement sensor made specifically for your light model. Install it in the exact same position and optimize the settings.
With some hands-on troubleshooting, you should be able to revive an unresponsive Defiant light that won’t turn on.
Light Stays On Continuously
Having your Defiant security light stuck on 24/7 can be just as annoying as it not turning on at all. When the light remains on all the time regardless of motion detection, try these troubleshooting steps:
Press the Reset Button
Just like when the light won’t turn on, the first step is locating and pressing the small reset button on the exterior housing.
Hold this button down firmly for at least 10-15 seconds until you see the light cycle off and back on. This will reset the sensor which may clear any weird settings causing continuous operation.
Test to see if pressing reset resolved the problem and the light now turns off after the timeout period when no motion is detected.
Check It’s Not Stuck in Manual Mode
In addition to the motion sensor, Defiant lights have a manual switch that can turn the light on constantly. Look for a switch on the underside or rear of the housing.
Flip this to the “Auto” or “Motion” position to enable motion sensing. This will be different depending on the specific light model. Just ensure it’s not stuck on manual 24/7 operation.
Adjust the Motion Sensor Position
If a reset and mode check doesn’t resolve the issue, the next thing to check is the positioning of the motion sensor itself.
The sensor may be angled in a way that triggers constant detection. For example, pointing it at bushes blowing in the wind.
Try incrementally adjusting the sensor angle while watching what triggers the light. Pan it left/right or shift it up/down to minimize constant triggering.
Also check for any obstructions like spider webs or dirt on the sensor lens and clean it.
Reduce the Sensor’s Range and Sensitivity
If repositioning the sensor doesn’t help, then try dialing down the detection range and sensitivity.
Look for adjustment dials or switches on the sensor housing (may be inside the light). Turn these down incrementally until the constant triggering stops.
This will restrict the area and level of motion needed to activate the light. You want the lowest sensitivity that still detects desirable motion.
Increase the Time-Out Setting
Finally, if the light is turning off too quickly after motion stops, increase the timeout setting. This makes the light stay on longer after activation.
Try setting the timeout to the maximum 5-10 minutes to prevent frequent on/off cycling from brief motion. Just keep bumping it up until the light remains on long enough after movement stops.
With some tinkering of the settings, you should be able to fix an issue with constant 24/7 operation fairly easily.
Light Flickers On and Off
Few things are more annoying than a motion light that constantly flickers on and off when it activates. That strobe-like effect usually indicates an electrical or wiring fault. Here are some steps to troubleshoot a flickering Defiant security light:
Check Wiring Connections
The first thing to inspect is all the wiring connections leading to the light. Loose splices or corroded contacts can cause intermittent power, making the lights flicker.
Turn off the circuit breaker for safety, then check the following:
- Wiring from the circuit panel to the light for any damaged wire sheathing.
- Junction splices in the electrical box ensuring wires are making tight contact and securely spliced.
- Behind the light housing itself, check that wires are tightly screwed into the terminals without corrosion.
- Defiant lights use wire nuts to connect the incoming power to the motion sensor. Make sure these connections are snug.
Cleaning any corrosion and re-securing loose splices and wires should resolve a flickering issue caused by bad connections.
Replace the Light Bulb
If wiring checks out fine, the next thing to try is replacing the bulb itself. As LED and fluorescent bulbs age, they can begin strobing or flickering randomly before burning out completely.
Swap in a brand new Defiant bulb (matching the voltage and wattage) to see if that fixes the flickering. It’s an inexpensive thing to try.
Clean the Motion Sensor Window
Dust, dirt, and insects can accumulate on the clear plastic window covering the motion sensor. This can partially block the sensor field of view.
Carefully remove the covering window and clean both sides thoroughly. Also check for any water condensation or corrosion.
Proper cleaning can maximize the sensor detection performance and prevent random flickering.
Adjust the Timeout Settings
If cleaning the sensor doesn’t help, adjusting the timeout settings may resolve intermittent operation.
Increase the duration the light stays on after motion detection before turning off. This prevents frequent restarting that can appear like flickering.
You want the timeout long enough so the light remains on for several minutes after movement without turning off in between.
With some hands-on troubleshooting and wiring inspection, you should be able to stop annoying flickering of your Defiant security light.
Light Turns On During the Day
Having your Defiant security light activate randomly during daylight hours can be perplexing. Typically these lights are designed to only turn on at night when motion is detected.
Here are some things to check if your defiant light is coming on during the day:
Adjust the Light Sensor Settings
Defiant motion lights have a photocell light sensor that prevents operation during daylight. Look for a switch or dial on the sensor housing that controls the light sensor functionality.
There may be settings like “ON at Dusk”, “OFF During Day”, etc. Make sure this is properly configured so the light sensor knows to keep the light off when there is sufficient daylight.
Check It’s Not in 24-Hour Mode
Some Defiant lights have a 24-hour operation mode that ignores the light sensor and works anytime. This could cause daytime activation.
Check the product manual for how to disable this 24hr mode if enabled. Usually there is either a physical dial/switch on the unit itself, or a wire that can be cut for always-on operation.
Clean the Photocell Light Sensor
The small daylight sensor window can get dirty just like the motion sensor. This dirt can impact its ability to properly detect ambient light conditions.
Gently clean the plastic window covering the photocell light sensor on the unit. Make sure no grime or condensation is blocking the sensor behind the window.
Check for Obstructions
Something as simple as a stick, vine, or other debris temporarily blocking the photocell sensor can prevent it from reading the daylight level accurately.
Carefully inspect the area around the light sensor window and remove anything that may be obstructing a clear view of daylight. Keep this area clean.
With some adjustments to the settings and physical sensors, you should be able to resolve any issues with the Defiant light turning on unexpectedly during daylight hours.
Resetting Your Defiant Motion Sensor Light
If you’ve tried conventional troubleshooting but your Defiant light still isn’t working right, performing a reset to factory defaults can often resolve problems. Here’s what you need to know:
Locate the Reset Button
All Defiant motion lights have a small recessed reset button somewhere on the exterior housing. But the location varies based on the specific model.
Some common placements are:
- Inside the fixture behind the bulb
- Under a plastic flap on the rear/bottom
- Behind the motion sensor eye itself
Consult your instruction manual to find the exact location. The reset button is tiny and easily missed if you don’t know where to look.
Press and Hold the Button
Once located, firmly press and hold the reset button for at least 10-15 seconds. You’ll likely see the light turn off and back on to indicate the reset took effect.
Some models don’t have a visual confirmation so just hold for 15 seconds to be sure. The longer you hold, the better chance of a successful reset.
Reconfigure Settings
After resetting the light, you’ll likely need to re-configure any customized settings you had adjusted previously.
Refer to your manual to set the sensitivity, lighting timer delay, hours of operation, and any other parameters.
The reset clears everything back to original out-of-the-box factory condition. So you’ll want to re-optimize things like the sensor range for your specific setup.
Test Operation
Finally, test that motion reliably triggers the light and it functions normally after completing the reset. The reset essentially reboots the system and clears any faulty settings causing issues.
With these simple reset steps, you can often get a Defiant light working like new again.
Reset Not Working?
Resetting your Defiant security light will solve most issues that arise over time. But if you’ve reset properly and the light still isn’t functioning right, you may need to dig deeper. Here are some next steps to take:
Remove and Reconnect Wires
If a reset alone doesn’t restore normal operation, you’ll want to open up the light housing and physically disconnect/reconnect all the wiring.
Turn off power at the circuit breaker first for safety. Then remove the mounting bracket to access the wires. Unscrew and disconnect the wire connectors leading to the motion sensor, lamp socket, and power lines.
Securely reattach each connector one by one, making sure wires are making tight contact with no corrosion or insulation damage. Reassemble the housing when done.
This can resolve elusive wiring gremlins a simple reset misses.
Check Voltage to the Fixture
Before calling an electrician, it’s good to check basic power flow yourself. You’ll need a multimeter tool for this.
With the light switch on but the circuit breaker off, probe the incoming hot wire in the light’s electrical box for 120v. Then flip the breaker back on and recheck for 120v to confirm uninterrupted voltage.
If power is measured fine, the issue lies with the motion sensor or bulb socket wiring. But no voltage indicates a problem with the home wiring or circuit breaker feeding the light which requires an expert.
Call an Electrician
If you’ve worked through all troubleshooting steps thoroughly and the Defiant light still fails, it likely needs professional electrical service at that point.
Some final fixes like replacing defective lamp sockets, re-routing new wire runs, or replacing faulty underground wiring require an electrician.
Problems stemming from the initial installation also require correction by a qualified technician. Don’t keep struggling with a light that just won’t cooperate no matter what you try. Calling a pro is sometimes the only option left.
Hopefully some intensive hands-on troubleshooting can get your stubborn Defiant light operational again. But don’t hesitate to use a professional when you’ve hit a wall. Electrical issues should only be tackled up to your skill level.
FAQ – Defiant Motion Sensor Light Not Working
How Do I Reset My Defiant Motion Sensor?
Locate the small reset button on the light housing. It may be under a flip open panel or by the motion sensor. Press and hold this button for 10-15 seconds until the light cycles off/on.
This resets the sensor and clears any weird settings. Reconfigure custom options like timer delay after resetting.
How Do You Manually Override a Motion Sensor Light?
Most Defiant lights have a manual on/off switch on the underside or rear. Flip this to “on” to override the motion sensor and keep the light on constantly. Return it to the “auto” position for regular motion detecting mode. The manual override is handy for testing the bulb when troubleshooting issues.
How Do You Test a Motion Sensor Light Switch?
The easiest way is to flip the light to manual mode so it stays on, then walk in front of the motion sensor. Watch for the red light indicator on the sensor to flash when it detects movement.
If it doesn’t flash, clean the sensor window and check positioning. The manual setting lets you test detection without having to constantly re-trip the light.
Can a Motion Sensor Light Be Controlled By a Switch?
Yes, many Defiant models allow wiring an additional light switch that can manually turn the light on/off, while still keeping the automated motion sensor capabilities. The switch overrides motion operation when toggled but doesn’t disable the sensor. Handy for controlling the light from multiple locations.
Why Is My Motion Sensor Light Stuck On?
If the light stays on continuously, first try resetting the sensor. Also check that any manual override switch is not stuck in the “on” position. The motion sensor itself may be picking up constant movement like tree branches blowing. Try repositioning the sensor or adjusting the sensitivity down.
How Can You Tell If a Light Sensor Is Bad?
The most obvious sign is if the security light comes on during daylight hours. First clean the photocell light sensor window which could just be blocked.
Then adjust settings like disabling 24 hour mode. If issues persist in bright sunlight, the photocell sensor likely needs replacement.
Why Does My Motion Sensor Light Switch Keep Turning Off?
This is likely due to a short timed-out setting. Try increasing the amount of time the light stays on after motion detection.
Also consider a higher wattage bulb or LED bulb which can flicker and cycle when burning out. Just make sure the new bulb matches the light’s voltage and socket type.
What Are The 3 Common Causes of Sensor Failure?
The top 3 causes of defective motion sensors are:
1) Dirty sensor window
2) Bad wiring connections
3) Physical damage from impact or water.
Check and clean the sensor window first. Then inspect wiring for corrosion and secure splices. The sensor itself may need replacement if physically cracked or internal parts damaged.
Do Motion Sensors Go Bad?
Yes, the components inside motion sensors can degrade over 5-10 years, causing inconsistent detection or complete failure.
Things like the PIR sensor, photocell, and processing circuit board all wear out over time. Replacing the entire motion sensor module is required when this natural end of life occurs.
How Many Years Do Motion Sensor Lights Last?
On average, you can expect a motion sensing security light to last around 8-10 years before needing replacement. LED bulbs can extend this lifespan even longer.
But the motion sensor itself will eventually fail and need replacing every decade or so for reliable operation. Built-in surge suppression helps protect against premature sensor failure.
Final Thoughts
When your Defiant motion sensor light stops working properly, it can be frustrating to get it functioning again.
As we covered, common issues like the light not turning on, staying on, or flickering can often be fixed with troubleshooting like checking power connections, replacing bulbs, and resetting the sensor.
The key points to remember are verifying wiring, inspecting the sensor window, and testing different settings and positions.
With some hands-on adjustments and sensor resets, you can usually get a problematic Defiant security light working like new again.
Don’t hesitate to call an electrician if needed.