4 Reasons Why Your Led Security Light Stopped Working: How to Fix It

Do you wish to know why your Led Security Light Stopped Working? Yes, there are some reasons that can makes that happens.

Have you ever walked up to your front door at night and reached in vain for a light switch that isn’t working? The sudden darkness when your LED security light stops functioning is not only inconvenient but can feel unsettling and unsafe.

As a new homeowner, I vividly remember the night I came home to a dark front porch and panicked when the motion light didn’t turn on. After some frustrated troubleshooting, I finally figured out how to get the finicky sensor reset.

If your LED security light suddenly stopped working, don’t worry – I’ve been there! In this post, I’ll explain the common reasons these fixtures fail and walk through steps to get your exterior LED security light working again. Read on to learn how to easily troubleshoot and repair your malfunctioning light.

Let’s get started!

A Quick Introduction to LED Security Lights

Outdoor security lighting provides important benefits like illuminating walkways, deterring intruders, and making you feel safe when you come and go after dark.

LED technology has revolutionized security lights with benefits like directional lighting, long lifespans, and energy efficiency.

An LED security light consists of a LED lamp or bulb, motion sensor, and exterior fixture designed to withstand the elements.

When the motion sensor detects movement within its range, it switches the LED bulb on automatically. The light will remain on for a preset duration before the motion sensor tells it to turn off again.

LED security lights are popular thanks to advantages over older incandescent bulbs:

• Longer Lifespan – LEDs can last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs, with lifespans of 25,000-50,000 hours. This means an LED security light may not need a bulb replacement for over a decade.
• Energy Efficiency – LEDs convert over 80% of energy into light vs only 10% for incandescents. This makes them much more energy efficient and economical over the long-term.
• Directional Lighting – LEDs emit directional light ideal for illuminating specific areas. No more wasted light going up into trees or the night sky.
• Durable – Solid state LEDs are more resistant to vibrations and external damage.

However, as with any electrical fixture exposed to the elements, LED security lights can develop issues over time that cause them to malfunction.

Some common problems that could lead to your LED security light not turning on include:

• Faulty motion sensor that fails to detect movement
• Burnt out LED bulb
• Damaged wires or loose wiring connections
• Moisture damage or corrosion
• Electrical surges frying the light

It can be infuriating coming home at night to discover your LED security light, which worked fine just the other day, is suddenly dead.

But before you rip it off the wall in frustration or shell out for an expensive replacement, follow some basic troubleshooting tips. Oftentimes, the issue is something simple that you can easily fix yourself.

This guide will walk through the various issues that can cause LED security lights not to work and provide steps to diagnose problems and get your light operational again.

With some helpful DIY advice, a bit of patience, and a few tools, you can troubleshoot and repair an LED security light that has stopped working.

4 Reasons Why Your Led Security Light Stopped Working

1. Faulty Motion Sensor
2. LED Bulb Failure
3. Faulty Wiring and Power Issues
4. Water Damage and Corrosion

Faulty Motion Sensor

The motion sensor on your LED security light plays a critical role in detecting movement and automatically turning the light on.

Like any electrical component exposed to the elements, motion sensors can malfunction and fail to register activity in their range.

If the motion sensor stops working properly, it will never tell the security light to turn on.

A motion sensor detects movement through passive infrared (PIR) sensors, which monitor for infrared energy emitted by bodies passing in front of them.

When the infrared energy changes, it triggers the motion sensor to send an electrical signal that turns the light on.

PIR sensors consist of specialized materials that are sensitive to infrared radiation levels. They contain optic lenses designed to focus infrared energy onto the sensors. The sensors and circuitry are contained in a weather-sealed housing mounted on the light fixture.

There are a several common reasons a motion sensor can fail:

• Faulty wiring – Loose wiring connections could disrupt power to the sensor. Damage to wires from corrosion or critters chewing on them could also cause issues.
• Voltage irregularities – Power surges could damage sensor components. Low voltage may prevent proper operation.
• Alignment problems – If the motion sensor gets bumped out of alignment, its field of view will be off.
• Dirty lenses – Built up dirt, dust, spiderwebs, etc can partially block the sensor’s optic lens system.
• Physical damage – Impacts or water infiltration could damage the delicate internal electronics.
• Dead batteries – Sensors with onboard batteries may have dead or drained batteries.
• Component failure – Like any electronic device, general electronics failure can occur over time.

If you suspect the motion sensor is the culprit of your LED security light problem, there are a few things you can try to get it working again:

• Clean the motion sensor lenses gently with compressed air and a soft cloth. Dirt and debris can impair detection.
• Adjust the sensor alignment or range settings if possible. Refer to your user manual for details.
• Check and replace batteries in sensors that have them.
• Verify the sensor wiring is intact and all connections are secure.
• Reset the motion sensor to factory default settings. Many have a small reset button or switch.
• Replace the motion sensor if needed. They can be purchased independently of the entire fixture.

With some basic cleaning, adjustment, testing, and resetting of the motion sensor, you should be able to revive it. But if those steps don’t work, replacement of the faulty motion sensor may be necessary to get your LED security light working again.

LED Bulb Failure

While LED bulbs last significantly longer than other traditional light sources, they can still fail or burn out over time. The LED component inside security light bulbs is subject to wear and tear just like any electronics. Faulty LED emitters or drivers are a common reason the fixtures suddenly stop working.

LEDs generate light through a semiconductor process rather than a filament like incandescent bulbs. The LED emitter contains the light-generating diode chipset encased in a clear epoxy dome lens. Millions of microscopically small LEDs make up each high power emitter.

The driver circuitry controls and regulates power to the LED emitter. It ensures consistent voltage and current to maximize the LED’s lifetime and light output. The driver prevents voltage spikes and fluctuations from damaging the LED.

Like any electronics, LED emitters and drivers can fail through:

• Excess heat – high temps degrade emitter efficiency and drivers over time. Good thermal management is essential.
• Electrical spikes – brief spikes slipping past the driver can damage the LED.
• Corrosion – moisture seeping into insufficiently sealed bulbs can corrode connections.
• Vibration – excessive vibration can damage solder joints and connections.
• Component aging – gradual degradation over thousands of hours of use.
• Manufacturing defects – improperly manufactured LEDs may fail prematurely.

Signs your LED security bulb may be faulty or failed:

• No light output – bulb won’t turn on at all.
• Very dim or flickering – failing LEDs or drivers.
• Buzzing/cracking from driver – faulty driver board.
• Discolored lens – overheated epoxy lens.
• Corroded or damaged base – infiltrated moisture.

If the bulb is suspect, try replacing it with a new LED bulb of equivalent wattage. On older fixtures meant for incandescent bulbs, an LED-specific retrofit bulb with integrated driver is recommended.

If the new bulb doesn’t fix the problem, the issue likely lies elsewhere. But relamping with a new LED bulb is an easy first step in troubleshooting an LED security light failure before digging deeper into the guts of the fixture.

Faulty Wiring and Power Issues

The wiring that delivers electricity to your LED security light can also be a source of problems causing failure. Damage to wires, loose connections, and electrical surges are common wiring and power related issues.

Outdoor security lighting runs on standard 120-volt household current. Wires carry power from the electrical panel to the installed fixture. This wiring is vulnerable to:

• Loose connections – vibrations and moisture degradation can cause wires to come loose from wire nuts and other connections. These faulty connections interrupt power.
• Damaged insulation – cracks, fraying, or gaps in wire insulation expose the current-carrying copper. This can short, reducing voltage.
• Chewed wires – squirrels and other critters are attracted to the coating on wires and will gnaw on them.
• Corrosion – moisture causes corrosion that degrades and oxidizes connections.
• Staple damage – using staples to secure wiring can accidentally pierce the protective insulation.
• Overheating – inadequate wire gauge for a fixture can lead to excessive resistance and overheating.

On the power side, surges and irregular voltages can damage the light components:

• Voltage spikes – brief overvoltage events from sources like lightning strikes. These can fry sensitive electronics.
• Electrical noise – EMI/RFI interference from other devices that disrupt performance.
• Low voltage – heavy electrical draw on the circuit reduces operating voltage below optimal levels.
• Power outages – for lights with non-volatile memory settings, outages can reset them.

Here are some tips for inspecting wiring and power issues:

• Inspect wiring connections and integrity. Re-secure any loose wires and replace damaged wire.
• Check circuit breaker – a tripped breaker is a sign of excessive load. Reset the breaker.
• Consider installing a surge protector to protect the security light from voltage spikes.
• Test voltage during operation. If low, check for excessive loads on the circuit.
• If flickering or intermittent, wiring damage is likely causing a poor connection.
• Call an electrician for large surges that may have damaged system wiring.

Diagnosing and addressing any wiring problems and power irregularities can often return an LED security light to normal operation. Consult a qualified electrician for any complex electrical troubleshooting to ensure safety.

Water Damage and Corrosion

Since LED security lights are exposed to the elements, they are vulnerable to moisture damage and corrosion over their lifetime. Water infiltration and oxidation can negatively impact the lighting components and wiring, potentially leading to failure.

There are a few ways an outdoor LED security light assembly can fall victim to water damage:

• Age and environmental exposure degrades exterior gaskets, seals, and weather-proofing over time. This allows moisture to seep in.
• Extreme weather like driving rain or storms can overpower compromised seals and force water into the fixture.
• Condensation build up inside the fixture due to temperature fluctuations.
• Direct water splashes onto the light from sources like sprinklers.

Once inside the housing, water causes corrosion – a chemical reaction that oxidizes and degrades the metal components and connections.

Corrosion occurs through an electrochemical process when oxygen reacts with metals.

Some signs that water and corrosion may be the culprit behind your LED security light failure include:

• Rust colored discoloration or oxidization visible on the light housing.
• Degraded seals/gaskets with visible cracking or gaps.
• Fog or condensation inside the lens when opened.
• Presence of dirt, debris, and spiderwebs that indicate openings.
• Flickering or intermittent function from damaged wiring.
• Complete failure or now power due to severed connections.
• Visible green or white corrosion on wires, contacts, and other metal components.

If a visual inspection shows obvious signs of water infiltration and corrosion, here are some tips for fixing the problem:

• Disassemble the unit and thoroughly dry all components. Remove rust and corrosion with abrasives.
• Clean and lubricate all gaskets/seals. Replace any that are too deteriorated.
• Check for openings in the housing and seal with caulk or weatherproof silicone.
• Spray electrical connections with an anti-corrosion protectant.
• Insulate/waterproof any wiring and components before reassembling.
• If damage is severe, replacement of the unit may be the most reliable option.

Routine maintenance and resealing can help minimize moisture issues. But seals degrade over time, so monitoring fixtures and replacing at the first sign of water intrusion is recommended.

With some TLC to clean up and protect against further water damage, you can often revive an LED security light felled by corrosion.

How to Fix a Non-Working LED Security Light

Inspect the Light Fixture and Bulb

If your LED security light has mysteriously stopped working, the first troubleshooting step is a thorough visual inspection of the fixture and bulb.

Start by turning off power to the security light at the circuit breaker to ensure safety while working on the unit.

Next, remove the bulb to examine it closely. Look for any signs of damage like cracks, broken filaments, darkened or discolored epoxy lenses, etc. Gently shake the bulb and listen for any rattling sounds which could indicate filament or component damage.

Check that the bulb’s base is clear of corrosion and still makes a secure connection in the socket. Try cleaning the base contacts and socket with a bit of sandpaper or steel wool to clear any oxidation or debris buildup.

Inspect the socket itself for damage, cracked insulation, burn marks, and other deterioration. If the socket is heavily damaged, replacement may be necessary.

Check that wiring connections to the socket are tight and corrosion-free. Loose connections can cause flickering and intermittent operation as current is disrupted.

Also examine any other wired connections in the fixture such as line voltage wires, motion sensor wiring, ground wires, etc. Verify screws are tight and wires show no damage.

Look closely at the motion sensor on the bottom of the fixture if your light features one. Try cleaning the sensor lens gently with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or spiderwebs that could impair motion detection.

Check the fixture housing itself for cracks, damage, heavy corrosion, or moisture intrusion that could allow water to reach light components. Damaged gaskets/seals should be replaced to protect internal parts.

If everything visually checks out fine, screw an appropriate new LED bulb into the socket and restore power to see if replacing the bulb alone fixes your problem.

If the light still doesn’t operate properly, move on to checking the motion sensor, wiring connections, and other components.

But visually inspecting the fixture and bulb is the crucial first step in diagnosing the issue with your LED security light.

Before doing more in-depth troubleshooting and repairs, be sure to give the light a thorough looking over.

Catching any obvious problems like a cracked housing, damaged wiring, or dead bulb early on could provide a quick fix.

Test the Motion Sensor

If replacing the LED bulb doesn’t revive your security light, the next step is thoroughly testing the motion sensor. As discussed previously, a faulty motion sensor that fails to detect movement is a common culprit behind LED security light failures.

Start by visually inspecting the motion sensor module mounted underneath the light fixture. Look for any signs of physical damage, detached wires, missing cover, etc.

Also check for dirt, debris, spiderwebs, or anything else partially blocking the sensor’s view.

With the fixture powered on, wave your hand slowly underneath the motion sensor from different angles and distances. Try varying your movement speed as well.

The light should instantly turn on the moment the motion sensor detects you.

If the light isn’t triggering appropriately in response to movement in front of the sensor, there are a few things to try:

• Adjust the sensor head angle or rotation to alter its field of view.
• Clean the motion sensor lens carefully with compressed air and a soft cloth.
• Make sure your hand motions are within the sensor’s detection range setting.
• Check any motion sensor batteries and replace if depleted.
• Tighten any loose wiring connections to the sensor module.

Many LED security light motion sensors also have adjustable settings like detection range, sensitivity, and light duration. Refer to your fixture’s documentation and experiment with tweaking these settings to improve performance.

For example, try reducing the motion sensitivity threshold if the sensor isn’t detecting movement. Or increase the light duration to keep the bulb on longer after detection.

If adjustments don’t restore proper motion detection, perform a reset of the sensor module to factory default settings.

There is usually a small pinhole button on the sensor marked “reset”. Press and hold this reset button for 5-10 seconds until the light flashes, indicating a reset to defaults.

Testing the sensor by waving your hand underneath while power is on is the best way to diagnose problems with faulty motion detection.

Don’t forget to try adjusting settings and resetting the sensor to factory defaults as part of your troubleshooting.

Check The Light Fixture Wiring

Issues with the power supply wiring to the LED security light fixture can also cause failures. After testing the bulb and motion sensor, wiring problems are the next thing to investigate.

Carefully examine all wiring leading to and within the light fixture housing. Look for any signs of damage like frayed/cracked insulation, corrosion, overheating marks, or exposed copper. Rodents chewing on wires is a common problem.

Check that all wiring connections are fully secure. Over time, vibrations can cause wires to loosen from wire nuts and terminal blocks. Loose connections will interrupt electricity flow and prevent lights from turning on.

Wiggle each wire connection gently to check for any looseness. Tighten all screws on terminal blocks securely. Consider wrapping wire nuts and connections in weatherproof tape to prevent moisture corrosion.

Use a multimeter to test wiring continuity and voltage during fixture operation. Set the multimeter to voltage detection and probe incoming power wires with the light switched on to verify 120V supply.

Check continuity by setting multimeter to ohms/resistance mode and touching probes to both ends of each wire in sequence. Sound continuity confirms wiring is intact from end-to-end.

Measure incoming voltage again when the light fails to turn on. A significant drop from 120V may point to a poor supply connection. Faulty wiring can have excess resistance leading to voltage drops under load.

If any wiring damage is found, cut back and strip the wire, then reinstall into the wire nut or terminal block. Use silicone sealant when resealing connections to prevent moisture ingress.

Replace any highly corroded or badly damaged wires.

With LED security lights, wiring issues that create resistance or connectivity problems are a prime suspect for unexpected light failures.

Carefully inspecting and testing all fixture wiring can often uncover and resolve the root cause. Pay particular attention to any connections exposed to moisture.

Consider Replacing the Fixture

If you have thoroughly troubleshooted your LED security light fixture, tested components, and repaired any issues uncovered in the process, but the light still fails to operate properly, replacement may be your best final option.

While LED security lights are designed for long-term durability in outdoor environments, extreme weathering plus wear and tear over years of use can take a toll.

If examination shows multiple problems like a corroded housing, faulty motion sensor, AND issues with wiring connections, the fixture may simply be at the end of its reliable lifespan.

Attempting further repairs is probably not worth the effort and cost at that point.

Before replacing due to age and harsh conditions, do verify that:

• The LED bulb was replaced with a new, compatible model
• The motion sensor has been cleaned, adjusted, and reset to factory defaults
• All wiring has been inspected for damage and re-secured firmly
• The fixture housing shows no external cracks or moisture intrusion

If everything checks out fine but the light still won’t work right, upgrading to a new LED security fixture is likely your smartest move.

When selecting a replacement, look for models with weatherproof, corrosion-resistant aluminum or polycarbonate housings. Fixtures rated for wet, outdoor locations are ideal.

Aim for reputable lighting brands known for quality and durability. Check reviews and feedback from other owners as well.

Modern LED security lights offer helpful smart features like WiFi and app control, adjustable color temperature, and high lumen output for maximum brightness and safety.

Installing a compatible new LED security light with fresh wiring and a warranty will restore peak performance and reliability to this critical home exterior lighting. And you’ll regin the peace of mind that comes from feeling completely secure at night.

Preventing Future LED Security Light Issues

Once you’ve finally gotten your LED security light working again after troubleshooting and repairs, take some proactive steps to prevent a repeat failure. While LED fixtures are inherently durable, a little prevention and proactive maintenance goes a long way.

Here are some tips to keep your security lights working reliably for years:

• Install a drip loop in wires to prevent water running down into the fixture.
• Apply weatherproof silicone caulk around the rear mount and ALL openings. Prevent any water ingress.
• Spray electrical connections with an anti-oxidant protectant annually.
• Keep debris cleared from top and sides of fixture to maximize airflow and cooling.
• Check motion sensor alignment and clean lens every 6 months.
• Consider a glass/polycarbonate shade to protect LED bulb from weathering.
• Test fixture after storms to ensure no damage.
• Check seals and gaskets every year or two for deterioration and preemptively replace.
• Install a surge suppressor to protect from electrical spikes.
• Inspect wiring connections for corrosion and tightness annually.
• Have an electrician evaluate wiring gauge if repeatedly tripping breaker.

You can also extend the service life by switching the fixture to manual/constant-on mode rather than relying on the motion sensor which is prone to failure from wear. Just be mindful of wasted energy usage and bulb lifespan when doing so.

Routinely checking on your LED security lights, keeping components clean/dry, resealing openings, and addressing minor issues promptly can add years of hassle-free operation.

But if significant moisture damage, electrical issues, or repeatedly malfunctioning components arise, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed electrician.

They have the expertise to safely diagnose and repair complex problems exceeding typical DIY capabilities. The cost of professional security lighting repairs or upgrades is worthwhile for restoring peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About LED Security Lights

How Do I Reset My Led Security Light?

Most LED security lights have a small pinhole button on the rear of the fixture labeled “reset”. To reset the light, power it off and press and hold this reset button for 5-10 seconds until the light flashes. This resets the motion sensor and any customizable settings back to factory defaults.

How Long Should A Led Security Light Last?

Quality LED security lights are designed to have lifespans of 25,000-50,000 hours of use. This equals over a decade of typical operation before failure. Higher-end commercial fixtures may last up to 100,000 hours. Proper installation and preventing moisture ingress maximizes lifespan.

Can You Replace Led Bulbs In Security Lights?

Yes, the LED bulb/lamp in a security light fixture can be replaced independently if it burns out. Make sure to choose a compatible LED bulb with wattage and lumen output specs that match the light fixture requirements.

Is There A Reset Button On Led Lights?

LED fixtures designed for exterior use often have a small pinhole reset button on the rear or side of the housing. This button lets you reset the settings and restore factory defaults. Check your owner’s manual to see if your LED light model has a reset button.

How Do You Manually Reset Led Lights?

If the LED light has a reset button, press and hold this button for 5-10 seconds with power off to reset the light. If no reset button, turn off at the breaker, wait a minute, then restore power to reboot the fixture. Some fixtures can be reset via app connectivity as well.

What Is The Lifespan Of The Led Chip?

The LED chips or diodes within a bulb or fixture have lifespans around 50,000 hours on average. Quality LED chips with proper thermal management can last up to 100,000 hours. The driver/board electronics often fail before the LED chips themselves burn out.

How Long Do Led Lights Last Before They Burn Out?

Properly installed, most LED fixtures and bulbs will provide 25,000-50,000 hours of operation before failure, or over a decade of typical use. Quality LED chips can provide up to 100,000 hours before burning out.

Why Do My Led Lights Burn Out So Fast?

Frequent LED failures are typically due to excessive heat buildup, moisture damage, power surges, defective components, or improper installation. Ensure adequate ventilation, protection from weather/wetness, stable electricity supply, and avoiding inferior quality fixtures.

What Is The Difference Between Led And Led Chip?

An LED chip or diode is the tiny semiconductor component that emits light. An LED bulb or fixture contains multiple LED chips mounted to a circuit board. The surrounding electronics drive and control the LED chips to produce the desired light output.

How Long Do Hard Wired Led Lights Last?

Hard wired LED fixtures have comparable average lifespans of 25,000-50,000 hours like other LED lighting. Hard wiring skips the socket connection which is one common failure point. Rated for exterior use, hard wired LEDs can endure outdoor elements for years.

Can You Cut Led Lights And Will They Still Work?

It depends – only LED strip lights and other simple low voltage DC LED products can be safely cut to length. Cutting any mains AC powered LED fixture will likely cause it to fail due to severed wires and electronics. This will also void any warranty.

Are Led Lamps Repairable?

LED lamps and bulbs are generally not designed for DIY repair like other light sources. The circuitry and precise optics make LED bulbs difficult to repair. It is typically better to simply replace failed LED lamps/bulbs rather than attempting to fix them.

Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions! I aimed to provide helpful information related to maintaining and troubleshooting common LED security lighting.

Conclusion

When your LED security light stops working suddenly, it can be worrisome and inconvenient. As we’ve covered, issues like faulty motion sensors, moisture damage, wiring problems, and failing LED bulbs are common culprits.

With some basic troubleshooting and component testing, you can often find and fix the issue yourself.

Resealing fixtures and maintaining connections will help prevent future failures. If problems persist after repairs, replacement may be needed.

Get an existing article stated about how to install motion sensor.

Don’t stay in the dark – leverage the tips in this guide to get your exterior LED security lighting working again!