Motion Sensor Light Switch

Fit a motion sensor light switch to automatically switch off lights when a room is empty

Automatic motion detecting light switch - energy saving

The Motion Sensor Light Switch pictured above is a new product which will only turn lights on in a room when it is occupied. By automatically turning off the lights when no-one is in the room, the manufacturers claim that an average of 128 hours per year of unnecessary lighting will be avoided, reducing electricity consumption (1) for the lighting (2) by 10%.

The light switch is sold as a complete easy to install unit which can be quickly fitted as a direct replacement for a standard (non-dimmer, single way) switch. A manual switch is provided so that lights can be switched ON or OFF, or to enter AUTO mode. When in AUTO mode, the fitted PIR sensor (3) (which covers 110 degrees with a range of 5 metres) detects if someone is in the room. A second adjustable light sensor ensures that the lights are only turned on when it is dark (see image below).

Adjust the LUX and time delay settings on the motion sensor light switch

A delay time setting (8 secs to 6 mins) is provided so that you can set how often you want the motion detector to check the room for inhabitants. The longer this time is set, the longer the lights will remain on after you leave the room. The shorter the time, the more likely it is that the lights will turn off while you are still in the room - potentially a problem if you are sat in an armchair not moving or walking backwards and forwards directly towards the motion sensor.

Buy a Motion Sensor Light Switch

A wide range of PIR Light Switches (4) are available here with prices starting from under £10.

Timeguard ZV810 motion sensing PIR light switch

The light switch pictured above (Timeguard ZV810) has more advanced features and is available for around £30. If offers a light on time adjustable from 6 secs to 12 mins, a wide 180 degree detection angle, and can switch up to 500 Watts of incandescent light bulbs or 150W of low voltage spotlights. Click here to view the ZV810 fitting and usage instructions (5) (PDF), or here to purchase the ZV810 Motion Sensor Light Switch (6).

Reviews of Motion Sensor Light Switches

Since domestic motion sensor light switches are still quite new products it is well worth reading about the experiences (often disappointing) of those who have fitted them in their homes: e.g. http://myreader.co.uk/msg/1391136635.aspx (7)

Web Link References

(1) http://www.reuk.co.uk/Ways-to-Save-Electricity.htm
(2) http://www.reuk.co.uk/lighting.htm
(3) http://www.reuk.co.uk/PIR-Sensors.htm
(4) http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=9....
(5) http://www.timeguard.com/pdf/instructions/zv810.pdf
(6) http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=9....
(7) http://www.reuk.co.uk/