Replacing PIR with switched live

mike105 · Aug 16, 2014

Hi. (I hope this is the correct forum - first timer looking for advice.)

I want to replace an existing security light with a new one. The existing light has a switched live, allowing it to be switched (from a 1-gang 1-way wall switch) either so that it is permanently on or so that the motion detector is enabled. (It's similar to this one: Byron Elro ES94 GLS / 23W ES 4-Panel Wall Lantern with PIR Motion Detector Black,100w: Amazon.co.uk: Lighting.)

Is it possible to wire a new light to act in the same way (i.e. so it can be switched on permanently, by-passing the PIR)? The ones I've seen in the local shops just have the normal live, neutral and earth fittings.

Thanks.

Marvo · Aug 16, 2014

Some PIR fittings have a feature where they operate as a 'motion detector only' if they are switched on but if you toggle the switch the brief power interruption puts them in 'permanently on' mode.

Richard Burns · Aug 16, 2014

Most lanterns are fairly basic and will not have an easy method of bypassing the PIR sensor, often floodlights (not LED floodlights) do have the additional terminal.
If you really want to be sure of having the manual on function then you could wire a stand alone PIR sensor that can have a manual override before a non PIR lantern.

mike105 · Aug 17, 2014

Marvo said:
Some PIR fittings have a feature where they operate as a 'motion detector only' if they are switched on but if you toggle the switch the brief power interruption puts them in 'permanently on' mode.

Thanks, yes, but I was hoping that we could continue to use the switch in the same way.

mike105 · Aug 17, 2014

Richard Burns said:
If you really want to be sure of having the manual on function then you could wire a stand alone PIR sensor that can have a manual override before a non PIR lantern.

Are these easily available?

Richard Burns said:
Most lanterns are fairly basic and will not have an easy method of bypassing the PIR sensor, often floodlights (not LED floodlights) do have the additional terminal.

Here is the original wiring.

[ElectriciansForums.net] Replacing PIR with switched live

What would the best way of wiring one like you refer to? Just terminate the SL/yellow wire, and use the N, L and E as normal?

Richard Burns · Aug 17, 2014

These are standalone PIR sensors with a manual override connection available.
These are coach lanterns with PIR which I believe have a manual override connection.

One without the override connection would just terminate the yellow wire safely at the fitting, remembering that it can become live if the switch is operated.
Use LNE as usual.

mike105 · Aug 18, 2014

OK, thanks for your help! I'm going to go with the standalone PIR sensor option.

mike105 · Aug 22, 2014

Please could I double-check how I would wire the standalone PIR sensor using the original manual override (i.e. by means of the wall switch). Does this look OK / safe to you? The yellow wire is the existing switched live from the wall switch.

telectrix · Aug 22, 2014

looks OK. the PIR will switch the light and so will the yellow from the switch ( manually)

mike105 · Aug 23, 2014

Thank you! I'll give it a go. I'll let you know if I blow anything up. :smilewinkgrin:

telectrix · Aug 23, 2014

mike105 said:
Thank you! I'll give it a go. I'll let you know if I blow anything up. :smilewinkgrin:[/QUOT

if it's a blow-up doll, hope it's a pretty one.