View Full Version : Motion Detector Switches
fatuesday
May 16, 2007, 06:14 AM
I have a light in my basement that is on a switch with another light. I would like to install a motion detector for the light. Can I do this even though it's not on a switch by itself? Most of the detectors I've seen are for a single circuit. Thanks.
CaptainRich
May 16, 2007, 06:20 AM
I'm no expert but I think you'll have to split the circuit to do it "clean." But I've seen motion detectors that screw into the socket like a bulb. Put the MD in socket where you want that function and install a socket at the other light with a pull-chain. Then just leave the wall switch alone (ON). Hope this helps. Good luck.
fatuesday
May 16, 2007, 06:24 AM
Thanks! I'll try it.
ballengerb1
May 16, 2007, 07:49 AM
I'd install the detector at the current switch location. I'd don't see that both lights coming on with motion could be a problem, they both come on now with the switch, right?
fatuesday
May 16, 2007, 08:29 AM
No, they have separate switches.
ballengerb1
May 16, 2007, 10:11 AM
"on a switch with another light" lead me to think they were both on the same switch. If they are on separate switches you can install the motion detector switch in the box that controls the light you want. Motion detectors would not be installed on an entire cuircuit. Does this help?