Hey everyone,
I recently installed LED shop lights in my garage, but it seems like they’re messing with the motion sensor on the light switch. I’m guessing it’s because of their frequency or something, causing the sensor to think the light is blinking or flickering, so now they stay on all the time. Are there any LED options that actually work with motion sensors? Or am I out of luck with LEDs in this setup? Any advice would be awesome!
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Yeah, LEDs can be tricky with motion sensors. Make sure your sensor is designed for low-wattage bulbs like LEDs. Some older ones just don’t know how to handle them! If you’re replacing the sensor, look for one that says ‘LED compatible’ – usually fixes the issue right away.
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Older motion sensors work by letting a small current flow through incandescent bulbs, which keeps the sensor’s electronics running without turning the light on. However, with LED bulbs, this trickle of current doesn’t work the same way. You’ll need to find a motion sensor that’s specifically compatible with LEDs. Just keep in mind, it might also require a neutral wire in your switch box, and not all boxes have one.
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Never had any problems with this. I’ve got 1x4 panel lights in my garage, and they work perfectly. I use the Artika model from Costco – they tend to have a slightly higher failure rate, but at $25-$40 each, it’s tough to pass them up. Plus, they don’t interfere with either the wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted motion sensors.
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Hmm, that doesn’t seem right to me. PIR sensors detect changes in heat using two pyroelectric crystals, so the frequency of the LED lights shouldn’t be causing any issues. PIR and Dual Tech sensors are commonly used in spaces with LED lighting without problems.
I’d guess there’s another issue at play here – maybe a faulty motion sensor, bad light fixtures, incorrect wiring, or possibly just the wrong settings on the sensor.
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LED bulbs can definitely work with motion sensors, but you’ve got to make sure you’re using the right combo. The problem you’re seeing is likely due to your motion sensor. Older sensors are designed for higher wattage bulbs, so with LEDs using way less power, the sensor might not realize the lights are off and just keeps them on. Another reason could be that LEDs operate at a different frequency, which some sensors misinterpret as movement, leaving the lights on.
Your best bet might be to upgrade to a motion sensor that’s designed for LEDs. Look for ones labeled “LED compatible” or “low voltage compatible” to avoid any issues.