Tools needed
- Wire strippers
- Non-contact voltage tester
- Screwdriver set
- Ladder
Materials needed
- Outdoor motion floodlight
- Twist-on wire nuts
- Waterproof exterior silicone caulk
Step-by-step
- 1
Turn off the circuit at the breaker and verify it's dead at the fixture.
- 2
Remove the old fixture and note the black, white, and ground wires.
- 3
Attach the new mounting bracket and connect like-colored wires with wire nuts.
- 4
Seat the fixture to the box and caulk the top and sides (leave the bottom open to weep).
- 5
Restore power and aim the sensor head, then test the motion range at dusk.
Common mistakes
- • Leaving the circuit live
- • Sealing the bottom edge and trapping moisture inside
Maintenance & next steps
Wipe the sensor lens a couple of times a year and adjust sensitivity seasonally.
When to call a professional
For new wiring runs, no existing junction box, or any uncertainty about the circuit.
Editor's note: This is instructional content for How to Install Motion-Sensor Security Lights. Replace with your own firsthand experience and photos before publishing.
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