How To Bypass Photocell On Outdoor Light

A photocell is a device that controls lighting according to the level of ambient light. When it's dark outside, the photocell activates the light, and when it's light outside, it turns the light off. In some cases, you may want to bypass the photocell to keep the light on even during the day. Here are the steps on how to bypass the photocell on an outdoor light:

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Before you start working on the light fixture, turn off the power to the circuit that controls it. You can do this by flipping the breaker switch in your electrical panel or by removing the fuse for that particular circuit. This is an important safety precaution to take to prevent accidental shock.

Step 2: Remove the Light Fixture

Once the power is off, you need to remove the light fixture from its mounting. This will allow you to access the photocell and the wiring inside the fixture.

Step 3: Locate the Photocell

The photocell is usually located inside the light fixture, near the bulb socket. It is a small, cylindrical device with a lens on one end. Once you have located the photocell, disconnect it from the wiring by removing the screws or wire nuts that hold it in place.

Step 4: Bypass the Photocell

To bypass the photocell, you need to connect the wires that were connected to the photocell together. This will effectively remove the photocell from the circuit and allow the light to stay on all the time. You can do this by using wire nuts or a small piece of electrical tape.

Step 5: Test the Light

Once you have bypassed the photocell, turn on the power to the circuit and test the light. The light should now stay on even during the day. If the light does not come on, check the wiring to make sure that it is connected correctly.

Step 6: Reinstall the Light Fixture

Once you have confirmed that the light is working properly, you can reinstall the light fixture. Make sure that the fixture is securely mounted and that all of the screws or bolts are tightened.

By following these steps, you can easily bypass the photocell on an outdoor light and keep the light on even during the day. Remember to always take proper safety precautions when working with electricity.