- FAQs About Motion Sensor Light Resets
- Can a power surge cause my motion sensor light to malfunction?
- How do I adjust the sensitivity of my motion sensor light?
- What should I do if my motion sensor light turns on during the day?
- Do motion sensor lights need maintenance?
- Can I install a motion sensor light on an existing outdoor fixture?
- What is the lifespan of a motion sensor light?
- Will a motion sensor light work during a power outage?
- When should I call a professional for help with my motion sensor light?
Has your motion sensor light stopped working, or is it stuck in the “on” or “off” position? A motion detector light is sensitive to power surges and blinks and sometimes will not work correctly following an electrical episode. While you may think the fixture is broken, many times, it often just requires a reset. Taking a few minutes to troubleshoot the motion sensor light can save you a lot of hassle and money and requires no special tools or skills.
Get your motion sensor light fixed right away by calling your local Mr. Electric®. Not sure if you need repairs just yet? Read on to learn how to reset a motion sensor light that's stuck.
When Should You Reset a Motion Sensor Light?
Your home's motion sensor light should turn on when a person, vehicle, animal, or other moving object is within sensor range. Over time, or after a brief blackout, the lights may become less responsive or get stuck in either the “on” or “off” position.
Here are some scenarios that may call for a motion sensor light reset:
- Large moving objects like people or vehicles are not triggering the light.
- The light stays on for long periods of time or permanently, rather than turning off shortly after the movement has stopped. A working light will turn off within a few minutes after detecting motion.
- The light seems less sensitive than usual and does not consistently detect motion.
If one of these situations sounds familiar, troubleshooting the motion sensor light may help you solve the problem.
What Causes Issues with Motion Sensor Lights?
Motion sensors are sensitive pieces of equipment, making them prone to minor issues. Some of the most common causes of issues with motion sensor lights include:
- Dust buildup – Dust and dirt can gather in your motion sensor light’s sensors, rendering motion detection impossible. Luckily, this section can be gently cleaned with a rag or compressed air.
- Blackouts – Power surges and blackouts can impact the sensor settings. A reset will usually fix this problem.
- Burnt-out bulbs – Because motion detection lights aren't often on, they take a long time to burn out, but it can still happen. This is one of the first things to check before calling for repairs or replacing your lights.
How to Reset a Motion Sensor Light
Is it possible to get your motion sensor light "unstuck" and working optimally again? Before you shell out the cash for a new light, follow these troubleshooting tips to see if you can get your light working:
- Turn off the fixture's circuit breaker for at least 30 seconds.
- If the fixture has a light switch, turn the switch on for 2 seconds, then off for 2 seconds, and then back on.
- If the fixture has a light switch, quickly switch it on and off four or five times or until the light stays on.
- Once the light remains on, turn the switch off for five seconds, then turn it back on.
- If your device allows you to change its sensitivity level, try adjusting it to be less sensitive to motion. After all, you don't need it to turn on every time a chipmunk runs by, but it needs to be sensitive enough to detect someone trespassing on your property.
- Replace the light bulbs in the fixture to ensure it isn't a bad bulb issue.
Once you've completed these steps, you will know if your motion sensor light needs a reset, new light bulbs, or if your best plan of action is to update your outdoor lighting. No matter what your motion sensor light needs, you can rely on your local Mr. Electric® team to help.
Let Mr. Electric Help with Home Safety and Security Lighting
Are you ready to upgrade your property’s motion sensors or security lighting? Whether you need lighting repair services or new lighting installation, our service professionals can help you find the perfect solutions for all your exterior lighting needs.
To get a quote for a motion sensor lighting installation, schedule an appointment online today.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Electric is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Mr. Electric location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
FAQs About Motion Sensor Light Resets
The safety of your business, customers, and staff are the top priority of every Mr. Electric service professional. Our safety-first commitment to solving your electrical issues includes a meticulous attention to detail on every job. Our commitment also includes using our years of experience to answer your questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how to reset motion sensor lights.
Can a power surge cause my motion sensor light to malfunction?
Yes, power surges can affect your motion sensor light’s settings, causing it to stay on or not activate. Installing surge protection can help prevent future electrical issues. If your motion sensor light isn’t functioning properly after a surge, a motion sensor light reset may help resolve the issue. For additional assistance, schedule an appointment with your local Mr. Electric team.
How do I adjust the sensitivity of my motion sensor light?
Most motion sensor lights have a sensitivity dial or switch. Locate it on the fixture and adjust it to increase or decrease the range. If your sensor is too sensitive, it may activate due to small movements like tree branches, leaves, or birds.
What should I do if my motion sensor light turns on during the day?
If your motion sensor light activates in daylight, check its light level settings (often labeled as “Dusk to Dawn” or “Lux”). Lowering the setting or resetting the fixture can prevent daytime activation. If the issue continues, or if you’re not sure how to reset sensor lights, a service professional can assess whether you need a replacement or an electric panel upgrade.
Do motion sensor lights need maintenance?
Yes, regular maintenance helps ensure your motion sensor light works properly. Clean the sensor lens, check for loose wiring, and replace light bulbs as needed. If your light requires frequent resets, an electrical wiring upgrade might be necessary. Contact your local Mr. Electric team for professional electrical maintenance services.
Can I install a motion sensor light on an existing outdoor fixture?
Yes, many motion sensors can be added to existing lighting installations. However, wiring and voltage compatibility are essential. A Mr. Electric service professional can install a motion sensor light in your existing outdoor fixture safely and efficiently.
What is the lifespan of a motion sensor light?
Motion sensor lights typically last between 5–10 years, depending on usage and quality. Upgrading to energy-efficient options and ensuring proper electrical safety can extend their lifespan. If your light is flickering or not responding, consider a light bulb replacement or a professional inspection.
Will a motion sensor light work during a power outage?
Unless your motion sensor light is connected to a backup power source or generator installation, it won’t work during a power outage. For homes that rely on security lighting, installing a dedicated electrical circuit with battery backup is a great option.
When should I call a professional for help with my motion sensor light?
If a motion sensor light reset doesn’t fix the issue, if you don’t know how to reset sensor lights, or if you experience frequent electrical problems, it’s best to contact your local Mr. Electric service professional for an expert assessment and repair. Whether you need electrical wiring repairs, fixture replacement, a circuit breaker upgrade, or any other security light services, we’re here to help.
