How to have a sensor light stay on?

[Samara1]

If I use my outside lights all the time, I would like to have the light stay ON when I am outside entertaining or i have heard noises and want the light to remain ON for the rest of night, Is there any special switch which I can change to which will make overriding the sensor ? 

[DIYGnome]

Hello @Samara1 to the best of my knowledge... turning the light on, then off and back on quickly defeats the sensor light circuitry, to return to normal operation simply turn off for a few seconds then back on again. 

Apparently there is a specific switch available (as mentioned in the linked article below), I have not seen one before but might be a specialty order item available through Bunnings (for fitment by an Electrician) 🤔

https://www.bluegumelectricalsolutions.com.au/sensorlights-how-to-override-and-avoid-confusion/

@MitchellMc @EricL 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Samara1,

It's great to see @DIYGnome has already offered you some great advice.

I had a sensor light at my home growing up that acted as DiyGnome has mentioned, so I am certain they are available. You would however need to confirm with the manufacturer of your specific sensor light whether this is a functionality that they have included.

I have been in contact with our suppliers to enquire whether there is a 3-way switch available that is capable of this, however unfortunately their technical team do not work weekends. Allow me to follow up with them on Monday to see if there is a product available that can fulfil your needs.

In the meantime, if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[Samara1]

Great thanks @JacobZ appreciate your time and kind help for the followup. please let me know once u confirm thanks

[JacobZ]

Hi @Samara1,

Deta have confirmed that this switch would not be suitable in this application.

Your best option is to purchase a sensor light with a manual override function such as this Arlec 30W DIY Twin LED PAR38 Security Flood Light With PIR Motion Sensor.

Let me know if you require further assistance.

Jacob

[DavidF1]

Hi @JacobZ, I hope it’s ok to post here. I have the recommended Arlec sensor light. It was installed by an electrician and everything works apart from the manual override function. Any ideas why this might be the case?

appreciate your help,

David 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @DavidF1. It's wonderful to have you join us, and perfectly fine to post your question here.

Provided you have gone through the following, your light could be faulty. To override the automatic mode, the light must be switched ON in the “Automatic” mode. Now, switch your wall switch OFF and back ON within two seconds. Your Floodlight will now stay on continuously, just like a normal light.

I've spoken to Arlec technical, and they've confirmed that the light is meant to have the override function. I'm sorry but it looks like we'd need to swap it over for a functioning unit.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[DavidF1]

Thank so much for your quick response @MitchellMc . I tried the manual override multiple times but it does not work.

Considering that an electrician will need to swap the lights, would Bunnings/Arlec cover the cost for the electrician?

Thank you,

David  

[MitchellMc]

I suggest contacting the manager at the Bunnings store where you purchased the light, and I trust they'll be happy to discuss that with you.

Mitchell