How to Build Solar Motion Lighting for Outdoors
A motion sensor light relies on electrical power for illuminating the bulb. A homemade solar powered motion detector light can be assembled (a.k.a., "built") from parts purchased from a hobby store or home and garden supply shop. Tools common to the home will be needed as well. No special electrical skills are required. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Motion detector light fixture
- Ruler
- Wire strippers
- Solar panel
- 2 electrical tab connects
- Electrical tape
- Wood screws
- Phillips screwdriver
- LED bulb, low wattage
Instructions
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1
Unscrew the incandescent bulb from the bulb socket on the motion detector light fixture. Place the bulb away for safekeeping.
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2
Place the motion detector light fixture face down on a work surface. Strip a 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires attached to the back of the fixture with wire strippers. Repeat this procedure with the wires attached to the solar panel.
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3
Twist the exposed ends of the black wire from the solar panel around the black wire from the fixture. Twist the exposed ends of the white wire from the solar panel around the white wire from the fixture. Screw an electrical tab connector onto each pair of twisted wires. Stop screwing the connector onto the wires when resistance is felt. Tape over the exposed ends of any wires remaining on the fixture with strips of electrical tape.
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4
Place the motion detector light fixture against a wall on the outside of the house that gets sunlight on it for at least 4 hours a day. Screw wood screws through the brackets on both sides of the fixture and into the wall with a Phillips screwdriver. Place the solar panel against the wall, next to the fixture, and screw it into the wall also.
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5
Open the side panel on the motion detector light fixture. Set the control knobs or sliding switches so that the motion detector will not begin to operate until "Dusk" and that the sensor on the front will respond to the slightest movement. Set the control knob or sliding switch so that the light, once illuminated, will stay on for 15 seconds before turning itself off.
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6
Screw a low wattage LED bulb into the bulb socket.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to buy a solar panel that is rated for the level of electrical power that is needed for the LED bulb.
