Installing Security Light

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-131 -- More Projects »

Figure A (click to enlarge)

Home repair expert Henry Harrison comes to the rescue for a viwer whose motion sensing outdoor light (figure A) has quit sensing motion and only comes on when she flips the switch. He helps her diagnose the problem and install a new light kit. On his elbow grease scale of one to four, Harrison gives this job a one.

Tools:

screwdriver
circuit tester
motion detector light kit

Steps:

1. Shut off power to the outlet at the circuit breaker. Use the circuit tester to ensure the power's off, then remove the old light and the plate covering the wiring box.

Figure B (click to enlarge)

Figure C (click to enlarge)

Figure D (click to enlarge)

2. Check all wiring connections to see if that's where the problem lies. If they seem in good order, proceed with disconnecting the old unit (figure B). Once all wire nuts have been removed, test once again to ensure power's off.

3. Run wiring through weather gasket and place gasket against mounting box (figure C).

4. Connect new unit, using wire nuts, and tug on each connection to make sure it's secure.

5. Stuff all the wiring back in the box, make sure the weather gasket seal is even all around, place the new unit against the box and secure with screws (figure D).

6. Aim the sensor and tighten. Install the bulb and lens. Hold the bulb with a cloth and do not let it come into contact with your skin. Touching it causes the bulb to wear out faster.

Also in this Episode

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-131
•	Replace Rotten Fencing
•	Installing Security Light
•	Install A Pedestal Sink
•	Toolbox: Wrenches

Remodeling

Installing Security Light

Tools

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