How to Keep Outdoor Motion Lights Illuminated

Quck answer

To make outdoor motion lights stay on, follow these steps:

1. Adjust the settings: Most outdoor motion lights have adjustable settings that determine how long they stay on after detecting motion. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions to find the adjustment controls and set the desired duration.

2. Check the sensor location: Ensure that the motion sensor is positioned correctly. It should be aimed at the area you want to monitor and not obstructed by any objects or vegetation.

3. Clean the sensor: Dust, dirt, or cobwebs on the motion sensor can interfere with its performance. Regularly clean it using a soft cloth or brush to maintain its sensitivity.

4. Test the range: Verify that the motion sensor’s range is appropriate for your needs. If it’s too sensitive, it may trigger unnecessarily. If it’s not sensitive enough, it may not detect motion when needed. Adjust the range accordingly.

5. Check the power source: Make sure the outdoor motion lights have a reliable power source. If they are battery-operated, replace the batteries regularly. If they are wired, ensure that the connections are secure and there are no power interruptions.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your outdoor motion lights stay on when needed, providing security and convenience.


If you want your outdoor motion lights to stay on, for example, to provide lighting for an outdoor party at night, you can easily set them to remain lit. However, it is important to remember to reset your motion sensors to their regular usage setting when you no longer want the lights to stay on continuously. To set your motion-activated lights to remain illuminated, refer to the owner’s manual that came with your motion detector lights for specific instructions.

Step 1

Consult your manual to determine if your light has a dusk-to-dawn operation feature, which allows the light to respond to motion only after dark. Choose a time during twilight or when the outdoor light turns on with motion. Trigger the light by waving your hand in front of the sensor. Wait for it to turn off automatically.

Step 2

Place a ladder on a stable surface directly beneath the outdoor motion light that you want to adjust to stay on. Have someone hold the ladder steady. Climb the ladder carefully, making sure not to activate the sensor. Place a lantern on the top step of the ladder to illuminate the switch area of the motion light. If you are using a flashlight, ask your assistant to hold it while standing on the ground and direct the beam towards the light. Locate the switch at the bottom of the sensor, which allows you to test the sensor.

Step 3

Cover the motion sensor with electrical tape to ensure that you correctly adjust the light to stay on without responding to movement.

Step 4

Check if your night model has a manual override setting on the switch. If it does, set the switch to this position. If your light does not have this feature, proceed to the next step.

Step 5

Flip the switch to the OFF position and immediately switch it back to ON. This double flipping will keep the motion sensor on constantly without detecting motion. Verify that the light turns on. Carefully descend from the ladder, with your assistant holding it securely in place.

Step 6

Follow this step when you want to restore the motion sensor lights to their default detection setting. With your assistant ensuring that the base of the ladder remains stable, climb up to access the motion sensor light. Remove the electrical tape and quickly switch the light from ON to OFF and then back to ON to reset the motion detector to respond to movement.

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