How to Install a Home Security Motion Detector

A home security motion detector can deter crime and alert you when someone is approaching your home. Typically, home security motion detectors include flood lights that turn on when someone or something triggers the motion detector. A few simple steps will have you on your way to total home security, beginning with the installation of motion activated lighting. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Caulk

1. Turn off the power to the circuit you are working on at the main breaker box or fuse.

2. Remove the existing fixture and use the screw holes on the old cover plate to match where the holes are needed on the new one. You may have to use the knock-out screw holes. If so, be sure to seal the unused holes with caulking to prevent water leakage.

3. Pull the wires from the house through the fixture plate and begin connecting wires. Connect black to black and white to white, securing each with a wire nut. If there is a ground wire, attach it to the junction box.

4. Tuck all the wires back into the junction box and place the light fixture over it so that the screws are coming through the holes in the wall plate. Screw in place.

5. Turn the power back on and install a fresh light bulb.

6. Adjust the motion detector by aiming the lens toward the area in which you wish to detect motion. Then adjust the lamps (when using the flood light design) toward the direction you wish to illuminate.

7. Test your handiwork by walking through the sensor zone.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to consider flagging the switch in the breaker box while you're working as an extra safety precaution. When adjusting the motion detector, be sure to keep the lamps of the fixture at least 1/2 an inch away of the lens. To adjust the lamp, grasp at the base and not the bulb, as the bulb could break.
• Also, in order to keep your motion detector working properly, be sure to clean the lens every couple of months. Depending on the model and brand purchased, the sensitivity can be adjusted with a dial on the bottom of the motion detector (or by following manufacturers instructions).