How long do motion sensors last?

Author: Brock Carroll  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Generally, high-quality outdoor motion sensor lights are designed to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years under typical usage. Motion sensor lights, particularly those equipped with LED bulbs, are known for their longevity.

Do motion sensors wear out?

Also, they only switch on when needed, so you can minimise your energy consumption, especially if you have a spacious outdoor area. However, while motion detector lights are designed to work smoothly, they can fail sometimes. They also have a limited lifespan.

Why do motion sensors stop working?

The sensors can go bad, and movement detection will no longer work. The bulbs might stop working and no longer emit light even though the device works properly. Electrical issues, such as a damaged power cord or faulty battery from solar motion lights, can prevent the device from working correctly.

How can you tell if a motion sensor is bad?

To test your motion detector:
  1. Place your system in Test Mode.
  2. Arm your system to Away.
  3. Before the exit delay expires, open and close an exit door.
  4. Wait five minutes.
  5. Confirm that the system panel's LED light turns on or that the keypad displays the zone as faulted.
  6. Remove your system from Test Mode.

What is the life expectancy of occupancy sensors?

Data from the battery life measurements predict slightly longer lifetimes, averaging 12-13 years, and a minimum lifetime of 11.2 years.

How Long Do Motion Sensors Last? - SecurityFirstCorp.com

What is the lifespan of a motion sensor?

Generally, high-quality outdoor motion sensor lights are designed to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years under typical usage. Motion sensor lights, particularly those equipped with LED bulbs, are known for their longevity.

Do sensors wear out?

Like any other component, sensors degrade over time due to regular wear and tear.

Do motion sensors need to be cleaned?

Clean the sensor. Use a soft cloth moistened with a cleaning solution such as window cleaner. Remove accumulation of dust and mildew, as well as any insects and spider webs from the fixture and bulb. Pay particular attention to cleaning the lens of the infrared sensor that switches the light on when motion is detected.

How to test if a sensor is bad?

If the transmitter's output is current (4-20mA) you can simply connect a resistance (usually 250R) in series and measure the voltage across the resistance in order to determine if the sensor is malfunctioning.

What can interfere with motion sensors?

Additionally, keep sensors at a distance from Wi-Fi routers, televisions, and other electronic devices that might emit interfering signals. Vibrations and Reflective Surfaces: Vibrations from heavy machinery or traffic can sometimes trigger motion sensors, especially if they're not properly secured.

How long does motion sensor stay activated?

Long Duration Settings – In most cases, your motion detector light should only stay on for 20 to 30 seconds after it's triggered. However, you can manipulate the settings so it will stay on longer. For example, many lights come with settings ranging from a few seconds to an hour or more.

What causes a motion sensor to stop working?

A motion detector light is sensitive to power surges and blinks and sometimes will not work correctly following an electrical episode. While you may think the fixture is broken, many times, it often just requires a reset.

How to fix motion sensors?

The common issues with motion sensor lights can often be fixed by adjusting the sensitivity level of the sensor, checking the power source and connections, cleaning the sensor regularly, positioning the lights properly, and replacing the motion sensor if necessary.

Where should you not place a motion sensor?

The Least Effective Placements:
  • Near Windows. This is a bad location for two reasons. ...
  • Near Heat Sources. A heat source could potentially create a false alarm, so it is a good idea to keep motion sensors away from hot air vents and radiators.

Can you clean your own sensor?

Many photographers regularly do their own sensor cleaning without any issues. Yes, there's always the risk of damaging the sensor if done incorrectly, but if you take a few basic precautions and handle your sensor with care, the potential for damage is small.

How do you test a motion sensor?

Checking Made Easy
  1. Have the system in a disarmed state.
  2. DO NOT walk in front of the motion sensor for three minutes.
  3. Walk in front of your motion sensor, and your panel's home button will flash Yellow. ...
  4. This will allow you to determine if the sensor is detecting movement and also let you explore its range of capabilities.

What is the best type of motion sensor?

PIR sensors are renowned for their reliability in detecting motion accurately. They operate by detecting changes in the infrared radiation emitted by objects within their field of view.

What are the disadvantages of motion sensor?

Following are the Disadvantages of Motion Sensor of active and passive types:
  • Radio frequency at high power is harmful for humans (active type).
  • Radio frequency in microwave range do not penetrate metal objects (active type).
  • Passive motion sensors do not operate above temperature of 350C.

What trips a motion sensor?

Also called a radar-based motion sensor, active motion sensors use waves that trip a sensor when someone walks past.

How do I know if a sensor needs replacing?

First, what are the signs an O2 sensor may have gone bad?
  1. Check Engine Light Comes On.
  2. Noticeable Loss of Fuel Efficiency.
  3. Sulfur or 'Rotten Egg' smell from Exhaust.
  4. Black smoke from exhaust.
  5. Emission levels reach high levels.
  6. Your engine hesitates, skips, begins bucking or has power surges.

What is the lifetime of a sensor?

The lifetime is up to 15 years, depending on the sensor type, configuration, environment, and use. Please refer to the datasheet for each sensor type for more information.

Do motion sensors fail?

They also serve as outdoor security lights, helping protect your property against intruders or trespassers. While most motion sensor lights will perform well when installed correctly, they can fail from time to time.

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