No matter where you live being safe is something that concerns all of us. You’ve got the basics: locks on the doors and windows, perhaps an alarm system, and maybe even some existing lights that operate via switch. But if you don’t have motion sensor lights you’re not getting all the security you need.

One of the easiest things you can do to help protect your property is to install a motion sensor. It’s simple: When an object or person gets close enough, the lights kick on. Let’s face it, light is not an intruder’s best friend. A motion sensor will also help light your way when you come home at night. If you have an exterior light and you want to enjoy the security and convenience of a motion controlled light, then here is how to install a motion sensor.

There are various kinds of sensor lighting. Always turn off the power before working with electricity. You only need to cut the power to the circuit you are working on.

Take out the light fixture from the wall. Test the fixture’s wires for no voltage and disconnect the. Bring the fixture to your work table. Find a place on the fixture to install the motion sensor. Make sure the sensor does not obstruct the actual light.

Screw in the provided bracket to the now empty fixture compartment. This will provide a corresponding anchor for the base of the motion sensor light being installed. Affirm the motion sensor on the fixture using the lock nut that usually comes with the sensor.

When you connect the wires, make sure you marry them black to black, white to white, etc. Twist the wires together like you would a twist-tie, and then cover them with a cap nut by “screwing” it onto the wires. Always cover all conjoined wires with a cap nut. If there is any exposed wire at the base of the cap nut, wrap some electrical tape around it.

In the similar way, conjoin the white wire of the electrical box with the white wires of the fixture and the sensor. Make the connections for the other wires also. If there is grounding wire, attach it to the light box.

Once the light is installed, aim the single or dual lights to the area you want lighted. Adjust the position of the motion sensor so that the lights come on at the first point of detection. This may take a few tries before you are satisfied with the results.

Scott Rodgers an author with ample electrical work experience all over the country. His exemplary guidance has created business for many Kihei Electricians (Need one?click here!) and Alleman Electricians (Need one?click here!).