I am definitely going to talk about solar motion sensor light, but before that, let me show you some statistics.
In 2023, theft statistics in the U.S. highlighted the scale of stolen items across categories. After knowing how many total cases there were in 2023, you’ll say, “My gosh, for sure.”
Over 4.5 million larceny-theft cases occurred. Robberies occurred in nearly 31,000 homes and 7,600 department stores. Motor vehicle thefts reached 318 per 100,000 people.
Cargo thefts averaged $428,409 in losses per incident. Package theft caused an estimated $8 billion in damages.
So, why are these stats important? They help you understand that if you don’t have a sensor light yet or it’s broken, buy it or fix it as soon as possible.
Otherwise, who knows, the robber’s next target is your home?
It’s better to be on the safe side and follow my guide to understand how a solar motion sensor light can give you maximum security in this case, how to fix it if it’s not working, and many other important details.
So, let me explain one by one and get started with today’s guide.
Do You Know What A solar Motion Sensor is?
Some people have yet to learn how to use a solar motion sensor or how to use it. There is nothing wrong with this. We can’t learn about everything on this globe.
So, for those, let me explain what it is first.
A solar motion sensor is a gadget that uses sunlight and activates whenever it detects movement. When you move a bit, these sensors sense it, and as a response, they trigger a light to notify you.
You’ll see that some also make sounds like alarm clocks. These are mostly used for security purposes.
There are different types of solar lights, such as solar motion sensor outdoor lights, sensor lighting indoors, solar motion sensor flood lights, LED motion sensor lights, and security sensor lights.
However, no more time wasting. Let’s directly get into the main part.
How To Fix Solar Motion Sensor Light
Here comes the main part you were waiting to learn.
Before I started writing this article, I checked out what people on Reddit and Quora were saying about sensor light.
According to them, such technology is not yet advanced but extremely helpful. I agree with them, too.
However, many members wanted more than the lifespan of solar light sensor technology.
The fact that most sensor lights fall so quickly is because of the battery. Otherwise, I have seen them last for more than 5-10 years.
Anyways, the topic is not why solar lights fall so quickly. The question is, if they do, how can you fix it right? So, let’s have a look at some of the reasons why solar motion sensor security lights fall so quickly and how to fix them:
Troubleshooting 1. Light Doesn’t Turn On
This is one of the most common issues people face within their first few months of using a sensor light. The thing is, if the lights don’t turn on, why use them? I know this situation is so frustrating.
Now let me tell you what to do in this case.
First, check if it’s getting enough sunlight. Note that we are talking about “solar” lights this time. Cloudy days or shady spots reduce charging.
You should clean the solar panel with a soft cloth to remove dust or dirt. Sometimes, the batteries might be old or damaged. Swap them out for fresh rechargeable batteries to see if that fixes it.
Troubleshooting 2. Light Stays On All the Time
Now, let’s think about the opposite problem. How funny is this? Sometimes the lights don’t turn on, and sometimes they don’t turn off! Funny, I know.
But it won’t be funny anymore when this happens to you.
If your light refuses to turn off, the motion sensor could be blocked or malfunctioning. The solution is to clear any obstructions, like leaves or spider webs.
Then, reset the light by switching it off and on again.
If it still doesn’t work, the sensor may need replacing.
Troubleshooting 3. Light Flickers or Is Dim
Lots of people have complained about this problem on social media. I know this because I did my research before writing this guide.
However!
A dim light usually means the battery isn’t fully charged. To solve this problem, the light should be placed in direct sunlight for at least 8 hours. This is not an exact solution, but it still works.
Also, check the connections between the battery and the circuit. Are they connected properly? Are there any loose connections you can spot? Let me tell you, loose wires can cause flickering, too.
Troubleshooting 4. Sensor Doesn’t Detect Motion
When my sensor motion lights don’t detect motion as they should, I feel like throwing it from the window.
Man! That’s how it should work, right? Detecting motion and lighting up.
If your sensor isn’t picking up movement, check its angle first. Walk in front of the sensor to test its range.
If it’s still not detecting you, move closer and gradually increase the distance.
Some lights have adjustable sensitivity.
Also, check to make sure no obstacles, such as plants or walls, are blocking the sensor’s line of sight.
Turn the light off for a few minutes and then back on to reset its system. This can sometimes fix sensor issues.
Troubleshooting 5. Solar Panel Is Cracked
I can show you thousands of users who get cracked solar panels when they order sensor lights online. Some don’t check whether the panels are cracked when the lights arrive.
But you should do it!
Cracks can reduce efficiency or prevent the panel from charging altogether. Unfortunately, a damaged panel often requires a replacement.
You or I cannot fix it by following a few useless steps.
Troubleshooting 6. Batteries Drain Quickly
It is a very common issue!
I won’t say it happens sometimes, but it always happens after a few months, just like the other issues. I mean, it’s so obvious that the battery gets damaged after being used for a while.
If your light works but doesn’t last long, the batteries might not be charging fully.
Check the solar panel for dirt and clean it regularly. If the batteries have been in use for more than a year, replace them, as they degrade over time.
And, while buying a new set, you have to buy one that goes with your model.
However, these are the six most common problems you will face with your solar motion sensor security light. As you can see, I have written the solution for each problem. Now, everything should be clear.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can a solar motion sensor light give you maximum security?
Most people place these lights near entrances to prevent unwanted night visitors. When someone moves into its range, the light switches on immediately. That’s how their strategic placement helps keep your property secure.
What is the best outdoor solar motion sensor light?
To name the best one, I would say AloftSun Solar Motion Sensor Lights at Amazon are what everyone loves the most.
How to bypass motion sensor on solar light?
Usually, people never do this, but to bypass the motion sensor, check if your light has a manual override or “always-on” mode. Switch to this setting for continuous lighting.
If unavailable, disconnect or disable the sensor wiring.
Final Thought
That’s the end of our article today. If you think we have missed discussing something that closely relates to today’s topic, please make a comment below.
I know those six problems are not the only problems one faces. Many more problems can be found in sensor lights.
As it’s about security, I don’t want you to take the risk. Solve your problem as soon as possible, or reach out to us. We will guide you through solving any issues quickly.
