How to Build a DIY Solar Powered Motion Sensor Light for Your Shed With Parts You Already Have

Introduction

Building a solar powered motion sensor light for your shed is a great way to add security and functionality without having to run electrical wires or pay an electrician. With a few basic parts, many of which you likely already have on hand, you can create an easy DIY solar light that will turn on automatically when it detects motion outside your shed.

I built one of these for my backyard shed using simple materials like a small solar panel, LED light, motion sensor, and battery. It took me an afternoon to assemble and works perfectly to illuminate the area when needed. In this guide, I'll walk you through everything I learned so you can build your own solar powered motion sensor shed light too.

Parts and Tools Needed

To build your solar shed light, you'll need the following materials:

Solar Panel

• Small 5-10 watt solar panel kit (with charge controller)
• Can be found for $20-50 online or at hardware stores
• Ensure it's designed for 12V systems

Battery

• 12V 7-10Ah sealed lead acid battery
• Like those found in emergency flashlights or alarm systems
• Run $15-30 at hardware or auto parts stores

LED Light

• 12V DC LED security flood light
• Many designs would work, with bright but energy efficient bulbs
• Look for models with adjustable mount and light angles
• Around $15-25 online or at hardware stores

Motion Sensor

• 12V DC passive infrared motion sensor
• Detects body heat and movement up to 20 ft away
• $10-20 from online retailers or hardware stores

Misc. Parts

• Hookup wire
• Terminal connectors or solder
• Solar lamp pole or mount
• Silicone caulk and exterior screws
• PVC conduit for running wires

For tools, you'll need:

• Safety glasses
• Wire strippers
• Drill and bits
• Multimeter (helpful)
• Soldering iron (optional)

How to Build the Solar Motion Sensor Light

Step 1: Mount the Solar Panel

First, mount your solar panel on or near your shed in a sunny location. Face it south if possible. Attach to the roof, side of shed, or a pole mount using exterior screws and caulk any holes. Run the wires from the solar panel kit into the shed through conduit.

Tip: Mount the panel high enough so it won't get covered by snow in winter. Angle it for optimal sunlight capture.

Step 2: Install the Motion Sensor

Decide where you want the motion sensor positioned on the shed. Install it by drilling pilot holes and screwing it in place. Run the sensor wires back through the conduit into the same area as the solar panel wires.

Tip: Mount the sensor 7-10 feet off the ground pointing where you want it to detect motion. Make sure the area in the sensor's range is free of obstructions.

Step 3: Connect the Wires

Inside the shed, connect the positive and negative wires from the solar panel to the corresponding terminals on the charge controller. Do the same for the battery terminals, connecting to the solar charge controller.

Finally, connect the motion sensor and LED light wires to the battery's positive and negative terminals. Use terminal connectors and secure everything neatly.

Tip: Consult each device's wiring diagrams to ensure proper polarity when connecting. Double check your work.

Step 4: Mount and Aim the LED Light

Attach your LED security flood light to the exterior of the shed, positioning it where the motion sensor can detect activity and the light will illuminate the area. Adjust the light's angles as needed. Run the light wires through conduit back into the shed to the battery.

Tip: Mount the light 8-10 feet off the ground on the opposite side from the solar panel to avoid shadows. Angle the light to fully cover the detection zone.

Step 5: Test and Use Your New Shed Light

With everything assembled, wait for the solar panel to charge the battery, then walk in front of the motion sensor to test. The light should detect you and turn on automatically!

Let the system run overnight to verify it works properly after dark. Adjust the light, sensor, or solar panel as needed to optimize performance. Enjoy your new solar powered motion sensing light!

Tips for Optimal Performance

Here are some useful tips to ensure your DIY solar shed light works its best:

• Keep the solar panel clean and clear of dust, dirt, and snow
• Adjust the light and sensor angles to maximize coverage
• Use a large battery to store plenty of power reserve
• Add a second light to cover a wider area if needed
• Bring the battery indoors during winter if temperatures drop far below freezing
• Check wiring connections annually for corrosion and tightness

With proper placement and angles, your motion sensing solar shed light will provide years of hands-free security and illumination! This inexpensive project is very rewarding to build yourself using common components and basic skills.