How to Change a Motion Sensor Light to a Regular Light?

Last updated on August 9th, 2023 at 07:20 pm

Do you want to know how to change a motion sensor light to a regular light? Yes, If you’re like me, you may have installed motion sensor lights thinking they were a good idea. The light comes on when it senses movement and shuts off when there’s none – saving energy! That makes sense, right? 

I was wrong. Those unpredictable porch lights caused nothing but headaches when arriving home late or having friends over. 

The sporadic triggering made my entrance look like a strobe party! I dealt with it for too long before finally deciding enough was enough. 

After some frustrating trial and error, I figured out a way to convert the finicky motion detectors into normal, constant lights. 

Now I control when the light is on, not the whims of a robotic sensor. Believe me, it made a huge difference in brightening both my porch and my mood!

The process wasn’t easy but I’m going to explain how I did it so you can ditch your bothersome motion sensors too. 

Let me walk you through how to change that motion sensor light to a regular light once and for all.

How to Change a Motion Sensor Light to a Regular Light?

Here are the steps to change a motion sensor light to a regular light:

• Turn off the power: Before working on any electrical fixture, it’s important to turn off the power to the circuit breaker feeding the switch.
• Remove the motion sensor module: To remove the motion sensor module, you must disconnect it from the electrical power going to the lighting fixture, as well as from the fixture itself. Once you remove the module, you can install a replacement.
• Twist the wires together: Twist the ends of the white wires from the motion sensor module, the electrical junction box, and the lighting fixture together. Place a screw tab over the ends of the twisted wires and screw the screw tab onto the wires clockwise until you feel resistance.
• Connect the red and black wires: Twist the end of the red wire attached to the motion sensor module around the end of the black wire attached to the lighting fixture. Place a screw tab over the ends of the twisted wires and screw the tab on.
• Test the light: Once the wires are connected, turn the power back on and test the light to make sure it’s working properly.

Reasons To Change a Motion Sensor Light to a Regular Light

Motion detecting lights may seem like a good idea initially. The sensor picks up movement and turns the light on automatically, then off after some time of no motion. This can help save energy and deter crime when you’re not home. However, there are several reasons you may eventually want to convert it to a standard constant light.

For me, the biggest annoyance was the unpredictability of the sensor. I’d come home late from work to a pitch black doorstep because the porch light didn’t realize I was there. Other times I’d be saying goodbye to friends and it would randomly flick off mid-conversation thinking we’d left. It was startiling and frankly a little creepy!

The sensitivity of the motion detector also caused headaches. Too much traffic on the street outside would set it off constantly. Or squirrels and bugs running across the yard would trigger it when I was trying to sleep. No matter how I adjusted it, the sensor seemed either too sensitive or not sensitive enough.

The final straw was when the light stopped working altogether. The sensor malfunctioned, leaving me in the dark. I could have replaced it but at that point I was tired of dealing with the unpredictability. 

After removing the faulty sensor, I realized I preferred just having a normal light I could control. The constant illumination made my entrance safer and more consistently welcoming. It was cheaper than installing a new motion detector too. So if you’re considering the switch, don’t hesitate – it really is better and easier! Let me walk through the steps I learned to convert it.

How to Rewire a Motion Sensor Light to a Regular Light?

Once you’ve decided to change your motion detecting light to a constant, manually controlled one, the next step is understanding how to actually convert the wiring. The process involves removing the motion sensor module and connecting the light wires directly to your electrical power line. 

While not overly complicated, it does involve electrical work so exercise caution. I’d recommend consulting an electrician if you don’t feel comfortable. But if you want to DIY, here are the steps I followed to rewire my motion sensor light to a regular fixture:

1. Turn off the power supply – This is crucial! Locate the breaker for the outdoor light fixture and switch it to the OFF position. Verify power is off by trying to turn on the light. Safety first when doing electrical work!

2. Remove the fixture housing – Using a screwdriver or Allen wrench, dismantle the outer fixture housing to access the internal wires and motion sensor module. Many housings twist or slide apart easily once you remove a few screws. 

3. Disconnect the motion sensor wires – There will likely be at least two wires connected to the sensor unit itself. Carefully remove them so the sensor is disconnected from the power supply.

4. Cap any unused wires – If there are any wires not being utilized, make sure to cap them securely with a wire nut to avoid exposed connections. Tuck them safely away.

5. Connect light wires to power line – Now take the wires leading from the lightbulb socket and connect them directly to the house’s electrical power line. Often this just means connecting like-colored wires.

6. Secure connections – Double check your wire connections are tight and secure. You don’t want anything shaking loose! Wrap connections in electrical tape for added stability if needed. 

7. Test fixture before fully reassembling – Turn the breaker back ON and briefly test that the light now works properly when you flip the switch, before you mount the fixture housing back up. This ensures you wired it correctly before finishing the job.  

8. Reinstall fixture housing – Once you’ve confirmed proper operation, carefully reinstall the outer light fixture housing, light bulb, and any other parts securely. 

Choosing a New Non-Motion Bulb 

With the motion sensor wiring removed and the light fixture reconnected to regular power, the next step is installing a new constant-on bulb. The bulb type and wattage will impact the brightness, appearance, and energy efficiency of your new converted light.

Follow These Tips When Selecting A Replacement Bulb:

Consider Brightness Needs – Do you want or need the same brightness as the old motion sensor bulb? Or could you go for a lower wattage regular bulb since it will remain on continuously vs intermittent motion activation? Evaluate your needs.

Choose Your Bulb Type – LED bulbs last the longest and are the most energy efficient. Incandescent bulbs are inexpensive but don’t last as long. CFL bulbs offer a compromise but contain mercury. Choose what works best for the fixture. 

Look for Specialty Bulb Features – For a porch light, you may want a “dusk-to-dawn” bulb that mimics motion activation by turning on at night and off in the daytime automatically. Or a timer bulb to control when it activates.

Match Bulb Style to Fixture – Ensure you get the right bulb base (E26, GU24, etc) as well as shape (A19, BR30) to properly fit the light fixture housing. Check manufacturer guidance.

Buy Quality Bulbs from Trusted Brands – Cheap bulbs can burn out quicker or not produce as much brightness. Stick with reputable lighting brands for performance and safety.

Consider Buying Multiple Bulbs – Since the light will always be on, bulbs may burn out faster. Save yourself future hassle by purchasing 2-3 replacement bulbs right away.

Once you’ve determined the optimal bulb specifications for your converted light fixture, it’s time to install it. Follow these steps:

1. Insert the new non-motion bulb – Pretty straightforward. Just screw in the new bulb securely into the light fixture socket. 

2. Turn the power back on – Return to your breaker panel and switch the circuit breaker back to the ON position. 

3. Test to make sure the bulb works – Go back and flip the light switch to verify normal operation without any flickering or issues.

4. Make any adjustments – You may need to tweak the angle or position of the fixture to optimize illumination from the new stationary bulb.

5. Set any controls – If you installed a specialty timer or photocell bulb, set the activation times according to your preferences.

Installing And Adjusting New Regular Bulb

After selecting the ideal non-motion bulb for your newly wired light fixture, it’s time to install it and make any adjustments to optimize performance. Follow these steps:

1. Insert the new bulb – Simply screw the new bulb securely into the light fixture socket. Make sure it is tightened properly so the electrical contacts are touching. 

2. Restore power at the breaker – Return to your circuit breaker panel and flip the switch controlling the outdoor light back to the ON position. 

3. Test the bulb activates – Go to the wall switch inside your home that controls the converted light and flip it on. Verify the new bulb illuminates properly without any flickering or issues.

4. Evaluate positioning – Since the bulb will now be constantly on, take note of the light distribution. Are there any gaps or dark areas? Does it cause glare if aimed a certain way?

5. Adjust position if needed – If necessary, loosen any adjustment screws or mounts so you can tweak the angle or direction the light fixture is aimed. Find the optimal orientation.

6. Retighten fixture completely – Once the position is ideal, make sure to firmly tighten any adjustment mounts and screws. You don’t want the weight of the fixture causing it to drift over time. 

7. Consider light obstruction – Are there any plants, foliage or other objects that block some of the light now that it will be on continuously? You may need to trim or relocate obstructions.

8. Set any specialty bulb features – If you installed a “dusk-to-dawn” or timer bulb, ensure the automatic activation settings are configured to your preferences. Most are adjustable.

9. Check controls and wiring – Verify any switches, timers or motion detectors not removed still function properly with the new bulb and wiring setup. 

10. Monitor performance over time – Check the light at night and in different weather conditions. Does the bulb provide enough continuous illumination? Make notes for any future tweaks.

Troubleshooting Issues Converting Motion Light To Regular

Despite best efforts, you may encounter problems getting your converted light to work properly. Troubleshooting and fixing any issues right away will restore normal operation quickly. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Light Not Turning On

• Check wiring connections – Make sure all wire connections are intact and attached correctly. Faulty connections can prevent power from reaching the bulb.
• Test the bulb – The original bulb may have burnt out during the wiring process. Screw in a known good bulb to see if it is an issue with the bulb itself.
• Verify power supply – Double check the circuit breaker is switched to ON and that power is flowing to the fixture as expected. Test with a multimeter if needed.
• Inspect for short circuit – If a wire nut came loose or insulation is damaged, it could be creating a short that prevents the light from receiving power. 

Flickering Light

• Loosen and re-tighten bulb – Over time bulb connections can become oxidized. Remove and thoroughly re-tighten the bulb to ensure a clean connection.
• Check wire connections – As with a non-working light, flickering can point to a wiring issue like a loose connection. Tighten and reinforce connections.
• Replace old bulb – If an incandescent or CFL bulb is near the end of its life, it may begin strobing irregularly. Install a fresh bulb.
• Upgrade wiring – If the wiring providing power is old, damaged, or insufficient gauge, the voltage may fluctuate causing flickering. Consult an electrician.

Light Stays On Constantly

• Re-check wiring – Accidental connections between always-hot and switched hot can bypass the light switch, causing the fixture to remain on continuously.
• Timer or photocell issue – If those controls were used, they may be malfunctioning preventing the bulb from turning off. Troubleshoot the specific device.
• Relocate or cover sensor – Any remaining motion sensors could be getting triggered and keeping the light on. Block them or move their line of sight.

Bulb Burning Out Quickly

• Reduce wattage – For continuously on lights, reducing the bulb wattage can prevent overheating and early failures. Only use specified wattage.
• Check voltage – Input voltage higher than bulb rating can lead to premature burnout. Electrician can check for voltage spikes.
• Replace fixture – If housing and wiring is old, connections may be deteriorated. Consult the electrician about replacing entire fixture.
• Use “rough service” bulbs – Bulbs rated as “long life” or “rough service” are designed to withstand vibration and last longer. 

By methodically inspecting connections, wiring, and bulbs, you can troubleshoot what is causing problems with your converted light. Persistence and electrical vigilance will pay off with years of operation on your well-earned regular fixture!

FAQs

How Do You Make A Motion Light Regular?

Here are the main steps to convert a motion sensor light to a regular, constant-on light:

1. Turn off the power to the light at the circuit breaker.

2. Remove the light fixture housing to access the internal wires and motion sensor module. 

3. Disconnect the wires connecting the motion sensor to the power supply and light wires.

4. Cap any unused wires and connect the light wires directly to the incoming power supply line.

5. Install a new non-motion-sensing light bulb that will stay on constantly.

6. Reinstall the light fixture housing. 

7. Turn the power back on and test that the light now stays on when you flip the light switch, without any motion sensor functionality.

Can You Disconnect The Motion Sensor On A Light?

Yes, you can disconnect the motion sensor on a motion-activated light fixture to convert it to a regular, constant-on light. 

How Do I Change My Motion Sensor Light To Always On?

Here are the steps to change a motion sensor light to be always on rather than motion activated:

Supplies Needed:

• Wire cutters/strippers
• Wire nuts
• Electrical tape
• Replacement non-motion bulb

Steps:

1. Turn off the power to the light at the circuit breaker panel.

2. Remove the light fixture cover to access the wires and motion sensor module. 

3. Locate the wiring connecting the motion sensor to the light wires and power supply. Cut these wires to disconnect the sensor.

4. Cap or tape the disconnected motion sensor wires so they are isolated. 

5. Connect the light fixture wires directly to the incoming power supply wires, matching like-colors. Usually black to black and white to white.

6. Secure the connections with wire nuts and electrical tape.

7. Install a new non-motion sensing light bulb in the fixture. An LED bulb works well for constant use.

8. Put the light fixture cover back on securely.

9. Turn the circuit breaker back on to power the light.

Now when you flip the light switch, it should activate the light directly rather than relying on motion. Make sure all wire connections are secure, and consider consulting an electrician if you have any doubts. But this basic rewiring should successfully convert it to a regular always-on light.

How Do You Turn Off The Motion Sensor On An Outdoor Light?

Here are a few options for turning off or disabling the motion sensor on an outdoor light:

• Block the sensor’s view – You can prevent the sensor from detecting motion by covering it or obstructing its line of sight. Place an object like a small box or even tape over the sensor lens. This essentially “blinds” the sensor.
• Adjust the sensor settings – Many motion sensors have sensitivity adjustments to reduce their detection range. Turn this down so it doesn’t get triggered as frequently.
• Disconnect the sensor electrically – Turn off power, open the light housing, and disconnect the wires going to the motion sensor module. Cap them off with wire nuts. This disables it.
• Override the sensor with a light switch – Some lights let you tap or flip the light switch quickly to override the sensor and keep the light on. This disables the auto shut-off. 
• Convert to a standard light – You can fully convert the light to constant by removing the sensor wiring and connecting the light wires directly to power. This makes it a regular light.
• Turn off power completely – Of course, you can always just flip the circuit breaker off to cut power to the light when you don’t want the sensor activating it.

What Interferes With Motion Detectors?

Here are some common things that can interfere with motion detectors and cause them to malfunction:

• Infrared light – Motion sensors often detect motion using infrared radiation. Sources of IR like sunlight, incandescent bulbs, or IR-emitting security cameras can trigger the sensor.
• Small animals – Rodents, birds, spiders, and insects can sometimes emit enough heat and motion to activate the sensor unintentionally.
• Air currents – Fans, air conditioning vents, or high winds blowing across the sensor’s field of view can falsely trigger it.
• Improper positioning – If the motion sensor is positioned incorrectly, it may be too close to a heat source, pointed at a busy area, or subject to vibration that activates it. Proper placement is key.
• Weather conditions – Rain, snow, and fog can refract ambient IR radiation toward the sensor in unexpected ways, resulting in false motion detection.
• Wireless interference – Other devices transmitting at the same frequency like garage door openers, radio signals, or WiFi can disrupt the motion sensor.
• Constant motion – Branches waving, cars passing by, or flags flapping continuously can prevent the sensor from resetting properly between activations.
• Power surges – Spikes or dips in voltage levels can momentarily trip the sensor’s activation circuitry leading to inadvertent triggering. Surge protectors help.

Can A Shadow Set Off A Motion Detector?

Yes, shadows can potentially set off a motion detector sensor under the right circumstances:

• Motion sensors detect changes – Most passive infrared motion detectors work by sensing rapid changes in infrared radiation levels. A moving shadow that blocks or shifts IR can mimic motion.
• Positioning matters – If a motion sensor is aimed at an area prone to shadows moving across its field of view due to sunlight or outside lights, this increases the chances of false triggers.
• IR radiation differences – A shadow will change the amount of IR striking the sensor. If this IR difference meets the sensor’s activation threshold, it can falsely detect motion.
• Intermittent shadows – Shadows that move across the sensor intermittently from things like trees blowing or flags waving are more likely to set it off than stationary shadows.
• Shadow density – Thin, transparent shadows are less likely to affect a motion sensor than dense, opaque shadows that dramatically alter ambient IR.
• Time of day – Shadows during sunrise or sunset that change direction and density quickly are more prone to causing false activations. 
• Sensitivity settings – Detectors set to high sensitivity are more susceptible to shadow interference than those set to less sensitive modes.

Can A Bug Set Off A Motion Sensor Light?

Yes, it is possible for bugs to set off a motion sensor light bugs flying near and around a motion sensor can absolutely cause it to mistakenly activate under the right conditions. Adjusting sensitivity, positioning, and possibly adding insect deterrents can help mitigate insect interference.

Conclusion

if you want to change your frustrating motion sensor light to a standard, constantly-on bulb, it is possible with some electrical handiwork. 

The key steps are removing the sensor module, capping unused wires, connecting the light wires directly to power, installing a new non-motion bulb, and testing operation. Remember to be cautious when dealing with electrical systems and consult a professional if needed. Converted lights must be carefully adjusted and maintained as well. But once installed correctly, you’ll enjoy consistent illumination without the hassle of motion detection. Give your space reliable light on your terms by converting to a regular fixture.