Sensitivity of Motion Lights


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Old 05-08-18, 05:26 PM
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Sensitivity of Motion Lights

How sensitive is an average outdoor double lamp security/motion light? Depending on setting of course, how close can you get to one before it turns on?
 
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Old 05-08-18, 05:36 PM
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Although they are called motion sensors...... they actually are triggered by heat/infra red.
Motion sensor lights are very sensitive when cold outside as anything with heat is easy to see.
As the outside temperature approaches body temperature.... the sensitivity is reduced.

There is no set standard as to how close you can get before it activates.
Also.... the light activates quicker when the heat/target passes by it instead of walking up to it.
 
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Old 05-09-18, 02:35 PM
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thanks for the reply.

I planned to put one on the same wall as my furnace exhaust. It will be about 6' above the pipes.

Then your response may have changed my plans.

Will the motion sensor go off from furnace exhaust in the proximity?
 
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Old 05-09-18, 04:36 PM
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Will the motion sensor go off from furnace exhaust in the proximity?
Good question. I don't think so but can't really answer for sure.
It may go on when it's cold outside and the furnace first starts.

Even that is debatable as the exhaust from a condensing furnace runs pretty cool.
 
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Old 05-10-18, 11:24 AM
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When locating the detector, keep in mind that it is more sensitive across its field of view. Think of it as a camera. IE: You're likely to get a lot closer before it trips, if you're walking directly toward it rather than across it.
 
 

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