How To Connect Outdoor Photocell Light Switch Sensor

How to Connect an Outdoor Photocell Light Switch Sensor

Outdoor photocell light switch sensors are an excellent way to automate your outdoor lighting, ensuring your lights turn on at dusk and off at dawn. They're easy to install and can help you save energy by only running your lights when they're needed. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to connect an outdoor photocell light switch sensor:

Tools and Materials

- Photocell light switch sensor
- Electrical wire
- Wire strippers
- Screwdriver
- Electrical tape

Step 1: Turn off the power

Before you begin working on any electrical project, it's essential to turn off the power. You can do this by flipping the circuit breaker that controls the outdoor light fixture.

Step 2: Remove the old light fixture

Once the power is off, you can remove the old light fixture by unscrewing the mounting screws. Carefully pull the light fixture away from the wall and disconnect the wires.

Step 3: Connect the wires

Now it's time to connect the wires to the photocell light switch sensor. The sensor will have three terminals: one for the hot wire, one for the neutral wire, and one for the ground wire. The hot wire is typically black, the neutral wire is white, and the ground wire is green or bare copper. Connect the hot wire to the terminal on the sensor that is marked with a black screw, the neutral wire to the terminal marked with a white screw, and the ground wire to the terminal marked with a green screw.

Step 4: Mount the sensor

Once the wires are connected, you can mount the sensor to the wall. Use the screws that came with the sensor to secure it in place.

Step 5: Turn on the power

Once the sensor is mounted, you can turn on the power by flipping the circuit breaker back on. Your outdoor light fixture should now turn on automatically at dusk and off at dawn.

Troubleshooting

If your outdoor light fixture doesn't turn on automatically, there are a few things you can check:
- Make sure the sensor is getting power. The LED indicator on the sensor should be lit when the power is on.
- Make sure the sensor is facing the correct direction. The sensor should be facing north so that it can detect the sun.

Conclusion

Installing an outdoor photocell light switch sensor is a relatively easy project that can help you save energy and improve the security of your home. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your outdoor lights are always there when you need them.