PIR sensor wiring for exterior light Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[petecosmo]

When we bought our house, the outside lights didn't work on their sensor - i.e. you could turn them on with the switch inside the garage, but the PIR motion sensor didn't ever turn them off. I assumed the PIR switch had failed. So I ordered a new PIR sensor, took a photo of the exisiting wiring, and then installed the new sensor as per the photo. Unfortunately, they behave in exactly the same way - i.e. alway on. I've looked at many wiring diagrams, but noting corresponds to the situation I have, which is two cables coming out of the wall. Can anyone cast an eye over this picture and tell me what's wrong? - Agh! Can't attach an image...

[Mr White]

Unless you can identify each cable there is not much anyone can do.
I would assume one is feed the other is to the lights, but then this may not be the case, hence the need to test/identify.

An acknowledgement that you have read this post is always appreciated.

[petecosmo]

Here is an image of the wiring

[Mr White]

As I previously said, each cable needs to be identified to establish what it does/should do. Who ever installed it could have used any colour they choose to do what ever they wanted, since, believe it or not there are no regulations regarding lighting colours. Also who ever identifies everything can establish is there any voltage.

Question: Can you tell from this picture of a mains PIR, shown below, which wire should go where? Without checking/testing it is not possible, get it wrong and something could go bang.

Sorry, but you are going to have to get someone in.

An acknowledgement that you have read this post is always appreciated