Simple motion sensor light ?!?!

[scott911]

:eek:
I bought a simple motion sensor light to install at my parents house...I am thinking that adding a breaker in the panel and running wire from panel to the light on a wall outside (if that is what is sopost to be done?!?!) is too much work....I am wondering if i can just cut an extension cable and plug the extension cable in at an already existing outlet and wire the light to the extension cable....??????

PLEASE HELP...PLEASE...here.....I'll look pathetic :(

(I understand electrical theory but have NO hands on experience)

Thanks everyone and anyone!!

[ampz]

No, extension cords & cables are not meant to be used for permanent installations

[ampz]

If you have no experience, to be on the safe-side call a pro.

[scott911]

I know extension cords are not meant for permanent installations...but can it be done....

OR

how should I go about installing the light?

Thanks for your reply

me ----> :confused:

[Desy2820]

fixture that you could replace that would do what you wanted??? This would probably be the easiest way to go, just remove the old fixture and replace with your new one. Match wiring colors and don't disturb any other wires that may be there...just the ones for the old light.


Your new fixture is designed to be mounted to an electrical box. I am assuming that your wall siding is flat and wood or wood product. (Not stepped ) If it is aluminum, plastic, stone, etc. then disregard everything else below. You should ask a professional how to properly install the box.

Usually you need to cut a small hole in the siding to mount an electrical box. Make sure that the box is mounted to a wall stud or has sturdy support! Keep your siding hole neat and as small as possible.


Alternately-you could mount to the surface of the siding. Seal off any unused holes on the sides or top. Metal will rust, plastic will break, this would be very short term only!!!! Support the box well!!!
Run power cable into the bottom or back of box.

If you cut a hole for the box, then try to position the box even or very slightly above the siding. Run the cables for power into the box also. I would try to run the power inside the walls and into the attic if possible. Caulk/seal around the box where it meets the siding.

For the light, follow the directions that came with it. Connect black to black, white to white, and bare/green to bare/green. (I'm not sure about the sensor connections-follow the directions!)

Make sure to install the gasket that came with the light between the box and the fixture! (Make sure water can't get into the box)


One last note: If you run a source of unswitched power to this box (from a circuit breaker, etc), your light will be on whenever the motion detector is triggered. Even during the day! (Some lights have built-in day/night sensors too, so this may not apply...check the directions).

If you use a source of switched power, then the switch must be on and the motion detector triggered for the light to turn on.

Good Luck!!