How to Install DIY Motion Sensor Lights in Your Garage

Installing motion sensor lights in your garage is an easy DIY project that can provide added security and convenience. With just a few tools and supplies, you can set up motion-activated lighting that will automatically turn on when it detects movement.

Selecting the Right Motion Sensor Lights

When selecting motion sensor lights for your garage, there are a few key factors to consider:

Detection Range and Angle

• The detection range determines how far away the sensor can detect motion. For a garage, choose lights with at least a 50 ft detection range.

• The detection angle is the field of vision for the sensor. A wide 140-180 degree detection angle will provide optimal coverage in a garage.

Light Brightness

• Look for motion sensor lights that provide at least 3000 lumens of brightness. This will provide ample illumination in a large garage space.

• For even better visibility, choose LED motion sensor lights that produce a daylight color temperature of 5000K-6500K.

Mounting Type

• Wall-mounted motion sensor lights are easy to install directly on the garage walls.

• Ceiling-mounted lights provide 360 degrees of coverage. Ideal for lighting up the center of the garage.

• Corner-mount motion sensors are designed to provide wide angled coverage from a corner.

Preparing for Installation

Before installing motion sensor lights, be sure to take a few simple precautions:

• Turn off the main power supply at the circuit breaker so there is no electricity flowing during the installation.

• Use a non-contact voltage tester to double check that the wires are no longer hot with current.

• Review the installation manual thoroughly before beginning.

• Verify that the mounting location has adequate wall or ceiling support.

• Have a helper available for assistance during ladder work.

Installing the Motion Sensor Lights

Follow these steps to install DIY motion sensor lights in your garage:

1. Turn Off Power and Test Wires

• Shut off the main circuit breaker for the garage lighting circuit.

• Verify no electricity is flowing using a non-contact voltage tester.

2. Mount the Motion Sensor

• Based on the manual, attach the motion sensor mounting plate using anchor bolts inserted into wall studs or masonry anchors.

• Ceiling-mounted sensors can be installed into a junction box.

3. Connect the Wires

• Attach the motion sensor wires to the power supply wires, connecting black to black, white to white, and green or copper to ground.

• Use wire nuts to secure the connections.

4. Mount the Motion Sensor Light

• Attach the motion sensor light fixture onto the mounted bracket. Make sure all connections are secure.

5. Adjust Settings and Sensor Position

• Restore power at the circuit breaker.

• Adjust settings like light duration and motion sensitivity as needed.

• Pivot and angle the motion sensor to cover the desired area.

• Do a walk test to ensure the lights detect motion properly.

And that's it! The motion sensor lights are now ready to provide hands-free light when you enter the garage. Enjoy the increased convenience and security. Troubleshoot any issues with detection range or false alarms and adjust the settings as needed.

Troubleshooting Motion Sensor Light Installation

If your new motion sensor lights are not working properly, here are some tips for troubleshooting:

• Verify the circuit breaker is turned on and power is flowing to the lights.

• Check that all wiring connections are intact with no loose wire nuts or detached wires.

• Make sure the motion sensor lens is not obstructed by dirt, bugs, or other debris. Clean gently with a microfiber cloth if needed.

• Adjust the motion sensitivity dial to increase or decrease the detection range as needed.

• If lights are turning on without motion, reduce the sensitivity to prevent false alarms.

• For lights that won't turn on with motion, increase the sensitivity and walk test again.

• Check that the light duration is set to keep lights on long enough to be useful after motion is detected.

• If issues persist, you may need to adjust the mounting position or angle of the motion sensor.

With some simple adjustments and testing, your motion activated lights should be working perfectly to illuminate your garage when needed. Enjoy the convenience of hands-free lighting!