How to Install Motion Sensor Lights Indoors at Home (DIY)

Last updated on September 15th, 2023 at 07:32 am

Do you wish to know How to Install Motion Sensor Lights Indoors at Home? Yes, install motion sensor lights indoors at home you can follow the general steps below.

As a busy mom of two young kids, I don’t have time to be wiring elaborate smart home systems or calling in contractors for simple tasks. 

But I remembered how seamless motion sensor lights are to turn on and off at my parents’ house. 

After a little research, I realized I could easily install these myself without any professional help.

I’m not naturally handy with electrical work. The thought of messing with tricky wiring made me nervous. 

But this project turned out to be much simpler than I expected! With a few basic tools and materials from the hardware store, I was able to transform our dark, dangerous stairway and cluttered basement into bright, safe spaces with the power of motion lighting.

In this article, I’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to installing motion sensor lights in your home.

 I’ll share tips on picking the right lights, where to place them, and tricks for getting the sensors adjusted just right. 

You don’t need any prior electrical or construction experience to install these lights and make your home safer and more convenient.

Let’s dive in.

Choosing the Right Motion Sensor Light

Selecting the ideal motion sensor lights for your home takes some consideration. Follow these steps to ensure you pick fixtures that will provide maximum convenience and safety:

Step 1 – Assess Your Needs 

First, survey your home to determine where motion lights could be helpful. Make note of any dark hallways, staircases, closets, basements, or attics. 

Consider what activities happen in those spaces. For example, if the area gets light foot traffic like a hallway, look for a smaller detection range of 8-12 feet. For a large basement or garage where you need a bigger coverage area, find a sensor with a 20-30 foot range.

Step 2 – Light Output

Next, factor in what level of illumination you need. If you want to light up a large garage, you may need motion lights outputting 5000+ lumens. For accent lighting a hallway or countertop, 800-1300 lumens should suffice. 

Also, consider light color – cooler LEDs simulate daylight while warmer incandescent bulbs provide a cozier ambiance. 

Step 3 – Power Source 

Determine if hardwiring to an existing electrical junction box is possible in the location you want to install the light. If so, a hardwired fixture may be the better, more permanent option.

If you can’t access wiring easily, battery-powered lights are ideal since they can stick to any surface. Just be prepared to replace batteries every 1-2 years.

Step 4 – Settings & Features

Look for adjustable settings like timer durations from 10 sec to 20 minutes, motion detection ranges, and light sensitivity controls. 

Weatherproof motion lights are a must for damp basements or outdoor lighting. Also, ensure lights are designed for permanent or temporary installation.

Step 5 – Recommended Products

After comparing my needs against product specs, I found these motion lights worked very well:

Hardwired for Stairs – Philips Dusk-to-Dawn LED Motion Sensing Porch Light 

Battery-Powered for Basement – LE Camping Lantern Motion Activated Closet Light

Low-Profile for Hallway – Amerelle LED Motion-Activated Picture Light

Take the time to assess your unique needs and find the right motion-activated lights for each space in your home. With these tips, you’ll pick fixtures that provide maximum convenience, safety, and peace of mind.

7 Steps On How To Install Motion Sensor Lights Indoors at Home

Once I picked the perfect motion sensor lights for each spot in my home, it was time for the fun part – installing them! I’ll walk through the installation process I followed to get my new lights up and running smoothly.

Step 1 – Turn Off Power 

Safety first! I located the circuit breaker box and switched off power to the circuits where I planned to install the lights. Working with live wires can result in nasty shocks or injuries. 

Step 2 – Mount the Fixture

Hardwired Stairway Light: I mounted this light to the existing electrical box on the wall. I used the provided mounting bracket and hardware to secure it.

Battery Basement Lights: These portable lights can sit on any surface. I opted to adhere the magnetic strip to the ceiling.

Step 3 – Connect Wires 

For the hardwired light, I connected the black (hot), white (neutral), and copper ground wires to the corresponding wires in the junction box using wire nuts.

Tip: Make sure to connect ground wires to avoid static discharge that can damage the sensor.

Step 4 – Install Batteries

For the battery-powered basement lights, I simply inserted the included batteries according to the polarity noted.

Step 5 – Turn Power Back On

Once all lights were mounted and wired, I turned the circuit breaker back on. Then came the fun part – testing!

Step 6 – Sensor Adjustments

I tested the motion sensor coverage area and adjusted the swivel and angle as needed. I also adjusted settings like light durations and motion sensitivity as needed.

Step 7 – Lighting Test

I did a “dance party” to ensure the motion sensors detected movement at various distances and activated it properly. All my new lights passed the test!

With just a few simple tools and following basic safety steps, I was able to install wireless motion sensor lights on my own. The lights transformed those once spooky areas into convenient, well-lit spaces. 

Testing and Troubleshooting Your New Motion Lights

Installing the fixtures is only half the battle – you need to make sure those new motion sensor lights work properly and provide maximum illumination. Follow these tips to test and adjust your lighting so it performs exactly as needed. 

Step 1: Initial Power Up

After installing the light, turn on the power and do an initial walk test. Walk in front of the sensor and make sure the light responds promptly.  

Check that it reaches all the desired areas you want lit. If not, tweak the swivel and angle to adjust the coverage.

Step 2: Set Timer Duration 

Most motion lights have settings for how long the light stays on after triggering. Adjust this to your needs – a shorter duration for low-traffic halls, longer for a workroom.

Test different durations by triggering the light and timing how long it stays on. Set the duration that suits the room best.

Step 3: Adjust Sensitivity

Too many false triggers from the sensor picking up small movements or objects? Dial down the sensitivity. 

If the light isn’t responding to movement, increase the sensitivity. Walk test at various distances to make sure it catches you.

Step 4: Day/Night Setting

For indoor lights, set the sensor to deactivate during the day or in already-lit rooms. This prevents unwanted triggering when light isn’t needed.

For outdoor/security lighting, set to activate day or night for full coverage.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Issues  

If your light isn’t triggering:

• Check motion sensor positioning. 
• Ensure power is connected.
• Clean debris/dust/spiders from the sensor.
• Adjust sensitivity higher.

If your light stays on:

• Make sure the day/night setting is correct.
• Reduce timer duration.
• Check for obstructions triggering the sensor.
• Reduce sensitivity.

How to Troubleshoot Motion Sensor Lights Indoors

• Fixing Motion Lights That Won’t Turn Off – This can be caused by overly sensitive sensors detecting movement when none is present. Try reducing the sensitivity, repositioning the light, or changing the time delay to a shorter duration.

• Preventing outdoor lights false triggering – Outdoor motion lights can be triggered by moving trees, bushes, wind, or small animals. Adjust the sensitivity lower, reposition away from problem areas, and install a shield around the sensor.

• Why motion lights flicker – Flickering is typically caused by a loose wire connection or outdated wiring that can’t provide steady power. Check all connections and consider upgrading old wiring.

Ideal Settings By Room: 

• Kitchen – For high-traffic kitchens, a 180-360 degree wide angle motion sensor and 5-10 minute time delay work well. Lower sensitivity prevents false triggers. 
• Bathroom – Install waterproof motion lights with a 1-5 minute shutoff timer. Medium sensitivity catches motion from sink/shower areas.
• Stairways – For safety on stairs, use a motion light with 180 degree coverage at top/bottom of stairs. Use a 2-5 minute delay and higher sensitivity.
• Bedrooms – Use a lower light output around 300 lumens. Short 1-2 minute time delay and lower sensitivity to avoid waking sleepers.
• Outdoors – Outdoor flood lights need large detection (20-30 feet), higher lumens, and sensory resilience to weather. 5-minute delays are common. Angle light down to avoid glare. 

Testing And Troubleshooting Your Motion Lights

You installed your lights and are ready to bathe those once-dark spaces in bright motion-activated light. Not so fast – it’s crucial to test your new fixtures and work out any kinks before enjoying your lighting automation. Follow these troubleshooting tips:

Step 1: Test Basic Functionality 

After installation, turn on the power and do a walk test to ensure basic operation. Trigger the sensor and verify the light activates as expected when motion is detected. 

If the light isn’t turning on at all, check that all wiring is connected properly and the power is on. If it still doesn’t activate, the fixture may be defective.

Step 2: Check the Sensor Coverage Area

Next, test the motion sensor’s field of view coverage. Walk perpendicular to the sensor at various distances to see if it reliably picks up movement. 

If needed, adjust the swivel and angle of the motion sensor to optimize the detection area. The light should trigger whenever you enter the desired space.

Step 3: Adjust the Time Delay

Most motion lights have adjustable shut-off timers, from 10 seconds up to 20 minutes. Test different durations to determine the ideal time delay for the room.

For example, a short 10-30 delay works for a closet so the light won’t stay on too long. For a workspace, a longer 5-10 minute delay may be preferred. 

Step 4: Fix False Triggers

One common issue is false triggering, where the overly sensitive sensor picks up small movements or objects it shouldn’t. This causes nuisance lighting.

If this happens, reduce the sensitivity settings or reposition the light away from problem areas. Make sure the day/night sensor mode is set correctly as well.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Lights Stuck On

On the opposite end, if your light is staying on permanently, first ensure no obstructions are continuously triggering the sensor. 

Also, check that the time delay isn’t set to the maximum. Reduce the duration to 1-2 minutes and test if the issue resolves.

With some tweaking and testing, you’ll work out any quirks and customize your motion lights to work perfectly.

Alternative Ways to Install Motion Lights

Motion lights aren’t just for permanent, hardwired fixtures – there are easy alternatives to light up any space with the convenience of hands-free activation. 

Step 1: Light Switch Motion Sensors

For a quick upgrade, install a motion-sensing switch in place of an existing manual switch. This makes the entire connected light circuit motion activated.

Simply turn off the power, remove the old switch, connect the motion sensor switch wires, push into the wall box, and turn power back on. Test to ensure the connected lights activate based on motion detection.

Step 2: Plug-In Motion Lamps

If you rent or don’t want to touch wiring, opt for a plug-in motion lamp. These have built-in sensors to activate the lamp when motion is detected within range.

Place these portable lamps anywhere you need hands-free light – shelves, countertops, cabinets, closets. Most come with AC adapters but some run on battery too.

Step 3: Motion-Activated Fixtures

They also make self-contained motion light fixtures with built-in sensors that just need mounting. These are quick and easy to install anywhere without wiring. 

Great for cabinets, closets, stairways, attics, garages, or sheds. Look for units with swivel heads and angle adjustment to optimize coverage.

Step 4: Motion-Sensing Wall Outlets

For a dedicated motion-sensing outlet, install a sensor wall outlet that replaces a standard outlet. This gives motion activation directly from the outlet for table lamps, decor lights, etc.

Simply switch the outlets as you would a normal outlet – turn off the breaker, wire correctly, and push into the box. Then plug lights into the sensor outlet.

With these simple alternatives, you can enjoy the benefits of motion lighting without complicated wiring or rental restrictions. Try them in your space today!

Using Motion Lights Indoors at Home for Safety and Security

Installing motion sensor lights isn’t just about convenience – they also provide invaluable protection, safety, and independence in your home. 

Step 1: Deter Intruders 

Indoor motion lights are a great passive security system. Illuminating an area suddenly when movement is detected can startle and deter potential intruders. 

Strategically place motion security lights near doors, windows, gateways to valuables like art or safes, and any vulnerable entry points. The lightning illumination leaves criminals exposed.

Step 2: Light Dangerous Areas

Motion lighting provides invaluable safety for navigation in typically dark, potentially hazardous areas. 

Install motion lights at the top and bottom of stairways, in attics and basements prone to poor lighting, and in transitional spaces like garages and mudrooms. This prevents slips, trips and falls.

Step 3: Increase Accessibility 

Motion lights also promote accessibility and independence, especially for seniors or those with mobility challenges.

Strategic motion lighting along hallways, entrances, and bathrooms allows easy and safe navigation at night without fumbling for switches.

Step 4: Automate for Convenience

You can also use motion sensors simply for the convenience of hands-free, automated lighting in spaces like closets, pantries, and hallways. 

Place them anywhere you don’t want to bother flipping a switch every time you enter. The right motion lights can transform busy areas.

Step 5: Use Outdoor Lighting Too

Don’t forget exterior motion security lighting on garages, walkways, driveways, and yards. These provide safety and deterrence outdoors.

Install bright, LED flood lights activated by motion detection around the perimeter of your property for full protection. 

Take full advantage of motion sensor lighting to make your home safer, more accessible, and ultra convenient.

How To Choose The Best Motion Sensor Light Bulb

Here is an overview of the best motion sensor light bulb in a step-by-step format:

Step 1: Consider Smart Bulbs 

For maximum flexibility, I recommend a smart LED bulb with built-in motion sensor like the Philips Hue or GE C-Life. Smart bulbs let you control features like timing, sensitivity, and dimming levels through an app.

Step 2: Assess Detection Range  

Look for a wide motion detection range of at least 270 degrees. Top-rated bulbs like the Philips Hue offer 300+ degree range so they can sense motion across an entire room. 

Step 3: Check the Light Output

Choose a bulb with sufficient light output for your needs – usually 800+ lumens for bright illumination. The Cree Connected Max claims an impressive 1150 lumens.

Step 4: Consider Special Features

Many motion sensor bulbs offer customizable schedules, dusk-to-dawn automated lighting, and integration with voice assistants like Alexa. The Wyze Bulb has all these features at an affordable price point.

Step 5: Read Reviews

It’s always wise to read reviews from verified purchasers on responsiveness, ease of setup, app integration, and reliability before you buy. Reviews for current Philips Hue and Cree bulbs are very positive.

Step 6: Buy and Install

Once you’ve picked the perfect motion-sensing bulb for your space, it’s time to buy it and screw it in just like you would any other light bulb. Bask in the hands-free convenience!

With the right motion bulb, you’ll enjoy next-level lighting automation and maximum ease of use. 

Best Motion Sensor Light Bulb

After researching and testing various options, here are some of the best motion sensor light bulbs:

1. Sengled SS-PAR38NAE26W LED: This bulb is best for outdoor use and has a wide detection range.

2. Sengled Motion Sensor Flood Light Bulbs: These bulbs are waterproof and compatible with standard light fixtures, making them a great option for both indoor and outdoor use.

3. LEONLITE LED Outdoor Motion Sensor Flood Light: This light is easy to install and has a wide detection range, making it a great option for outdoor use.

4. HMCITY Outdoor LED Solar Lights: These lights are budget-friendly and solar-powered, making them a great option for those looking for an eco-friendly option.

5. Philips Hue Motion Sensor: This motion sensor is compatible with Philips Hue smart bulbs and can be controlled through a smartphone app, making it a great option for those looking for a smart home solution.

FAQs

How Do You Connect A Motion Sensor To A Bulb?

Linking an activity sensing unit to a light bulb is a reasonably straightforward procedure that can be carried out in a couple of actions:

1. Shut Off The Power: Before servicing any type of electric component it’s essential to shut off the power to the breaker feeding the button.

2. Install the Motion Sensor: If you do not currently have a motion sensor set up you’ll require to mount one. This entails locating an area to set up the activity sensing unit in between the source of power from your residence as well as the light, coupled with mounting a joint box if essential.

3. Connect the Wires: Connect the warm cable from your home to the warm cable on the movement sensing unit, plus link the lots cable from the activity sensing unit to the lots cable on the lighting fixture. Attach the neutral cable from your home to the neutral cord on the light.

4. Test the Light: Once the cords are attached transform the power back on as well as examine the light to ensure it’s functioning correctly. The light ought to activate instantly when movement is spotted.

How Do You Set An Outdoor Light To A Motion Sensor?

Right here are the actions to establish an outside light to a motion Sensor:

1. Choose A Motion Sensor: There are a number of kinds of movement sensing units offered, consisting of plug-in sensing units hardwired sensing units, plus cordless sensing units. Select the kind of sensing unit that finest fits your requirements.

2. Turn off the Power: Before working with any kind of electric component it’s crucial to switch off the power to the breaker feeding the button.

3. Remove The Light Bulb: Unscrew the light bulb from the component along with established it apart.

4. Install The Motion Sensor: Depending on the sort of activity sensing unit you have installment might differ. Adhere to the supplier’s guidelines to set up the sensing unit correctly.

5. Connect The Wires: Connect the cables from the activity sensing unit to the cables in the lighting fixture. This might entail splicing cords with each other or making use of cord nuts.

6. Test the Light: Once the cables are attached transform the power back on as well as evaluate the light to make certain it’s functioning effectively. The light ought to activate instantly when movement is identified.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Motion Sensor Lights?

Here are some disadvantages of motion sensor lights:

1. Unreliability: Motion sensing unit lights can be uncertain together with might switch on coupled off all of a sudden as a result of elements such as wind family pets or various other activities.

2. Limited Coverage: Motion sensing unit lights might not cover all locations of a space or exterior room leaving some locations at night.

3. False Alarms: Motion-sensing unit lights might be set off by duds such as passing vehicles or pets which can be frustrating plus might decrease the efficiency of the lights.

4. Short Lifespan: The constant changing on as well as off of movement sensing unit lights might reduce the life expectancy of the luminaires particularly if they lie in locations of high task.

5. High Initial Cost: Motion sensing unit lights might be much more pricey than conventional lights, specifically if they are top notch coupled with have actually progressed attributes.

6. Distracting: Motion-sensing unit lights might be disruptive or aggravating to some individuals, specifically if they switch on and also off regularly.

7. Interference: Electronic tools, sunshine, warmth, and dirt coupled with particles can hinder movement sensing units triggering duds or decreasing their efficiency.

How Do I Keep My Indoor Motion Sensor Lights On All The Time?

There are numerous methods to maintain interior activity sensing unit lights on at all times consisting of:

1. Turn Off And On The Switch: One of the simplest methods to maintain the light on is to shut off the button and afterward quickly transform it back on. This will certainly bypass the activity sensing unit and also maintain the light on.

2. Install A Bypass Switch: You can mount a bypass button to give independent power to the light enabling you to transform the movement sensing unit on plus off as required.

3. Use Tape Or An Object To Block The Sensor: You can utilize tape or a challenge to obstruct the sensing unit, avoiding it from identifying movement plus maintaining the light on.

It’s essential to keep in mind that maintaining the activity sensing unit light on at all times might lower its life expectancy as well as rise power intake. It’s suggested to utilize movement sensing unit lights as meant as they are developed to give hands-free lights together with conserving power.

How Do Wireless Motion Sensor Lights Work?

Wireless motion sensor lights work by using one or multiple technologies to detect movement in an area. When a sensor detects motion, it sends a signal to the control panel, which connects to your monitoring center. This alerts you and the monitoring center to a potential threat in your home.

Wireless motion sensor lights are typically battery-powered and use radio frequency (RF) technology to communicate with other devices in your home. 

They can be easily installed without the need for wiring, making them a convenient option for adding extra lighting to various areas of the home.

Wireless motion sensor lights can be paired with smart light bulbs, smart light switches, or smart plugs to create a home security system. 

When the sensor detects movement, the lights will automatically turn on, providing hands-free lighting and added security. 

Some wireless motion sensor lights can also be paired with smart cameras, allowing you to check your smart home app to see what caused the lights to turn on.

Can You Put A Motion Sensor Bulb In Any Light?

Yes, you can put a motion sensor bulb in any light. Motion sensors can work with any type of light, including incandescent, CFL, or LED light bulbs.

Where Should A Motion Sensor Be Placed In A Bathroom?

When positioning an activity sensing unit in a shower room there are a couple of elements to think about consisting of the dimension of the area the place of the light together with the positioning of the sensing unit. 

Right here are some ideas on where to position a motion sensor in a bathroom:

1. Away From Heat Sources And Water: For best operation and performance, position your motion sensor away from heat sources and water. Face it away from the shower and avoid placing it near a heat source like a vent or radiator.

2. In A Corner Of The Room: Many people tend to place motion sensors in corners of the room, along the same wall as the entrance to the room, about chest height, so that entering the room will trigger the sensor.

3. On The Ceiling: You can also place a motion sensor on the ceiling, but first make sure it has a full 360-degree viewing angle. This can be a good option if you have a larger bathroom or if you want to cover a wider area.

4. Avoid Blind Spots: When placing a motion sensor, it’s important to avoid blind spots that could prevent the sensor from detecting motion. Avoid placing the sensor near large furniture or other objects that could create a “shadow” or block the sensor’s view.

Are Motion Sensor Lights A Good Idea?

Motion sensor lights can be a great addition to any home or business, providing added security and convenience. However, there are also some drawbacks to using motion sensor lights. Here are some pros and cons of motion sensor lights:

Pros:

• Save money: Motion sensor lights can help save money on electricity bills by only using electricity when the light is actually required.
• Eco-friendly: Using less electricity helps reduce your carbon footprint, making motion sensor lights an eco-friendly option.
• Hands-free lifestyle: Motion sensor lights provide hands-free lighting, making them a convenient option for various areas of the home.

Cons:

• Unreliability: Motion sensor lights can be unpredictable and may turn on and off unexpectedly due to factors such as wind, pets, or other movement.
• Limited Coverage: Motion sensor lights may not cover all areas of a room or outdoor space, leaving some areas in the dark.
• False Alarms: Motion sensor lights may be triggered by false alarms such as passing cars or animals, which can be annoying and may reduce the effectiveness of the lights.
• Short Lifespan: The frequent switching on and off of motion sensor lights may shorten the lifespan of the luminaires, especially if they are located in areas of high activity.
• High Initial Cost: Motion sensor lights may be more expensive than traditional lights, especially if they are high-quality and have advanced features.

Do Motion Sensor Light Bulbs Work Outside?

Yes, motion sensor light bulbs function outside. As a matter of fact, motion sensor lights are a preferred selection for outside illumination, offering included protection and also ease. There are a number of choices offered for exterior activity sensing unit lights, consisting of:

1. Sengled Outdoor Motion Sensor Light Bulbs: These light bulbs are water resistant along with suitable with basic lights, making them a terrific alternative for both interior as well as outside usage.

2. GE Lighting LED+ Linkable Motion Bulb: This light bulb transforms any kind of component right into an activity detector making it a terrific alternative for exterior safety and security together with hands-free illumination.

3. NEXPURE Solar Lights Outdoor: These lights are solar-powered and also geared up with activity sensing units making them a terrific alternative for green outside illumination.

4. VOLANSON TECHNOLOGIES Motion Sensor Light Bulb Radar: This light bulb is geared up with a radar sensing unit that instantly illuminate when it detects motion within 12-20 feet making it a fantastic choice for outside safety plus benefit.

It’s vital to keep in mind that the performance of outside activity sensing unit lights might differ relying on the sort of sensing unit together with the place of installment. Some activity sensing units might be much more delicate than others as well as it might take some experimentation to locate the very best area for optimum discovery efficiency.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned how to Install Motion Sensor Lights Indoors exactly when and where you need it in your home. 

By following this guide on picking the right motion light fixtures, planning the installation, and customizing the sensor settings, you can take control of dark indoor spaces. 

Always remember to assess your lighting needs, take safety precautions, and test for optimal coverage. 

Hands-free lighting is just a few installation steps away! 

Try adding motion lights around your home, especially on stairways and in closets or basements prone to poor lighting. 

Get an existing article on How Does The Motion Sensor Work?

For maximum flexibility, I recommend a smart LED bulb with built-in motion sensor like the Philips Hue or GE C-Life.

You’ll enjoy greater safety, security, and convenience with strategic motion sensor placement.