Top 5 Tips for Using and Installing Photocell Sensors with LED Lights at Home (5/16/2022)

Photocells are light sensors, which automatically activate connected fixtures at night and deactivate connected fixtures during the day.

Article - May 16, 2022 By LarsonElectronics.com

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Top 5 Tips for Using and Installing Photocell Sensors with LED Lights at Home

Using photocells with LED lights improve lighting control by automatically detecting ambient light levels in the environment. There are several things to consider during installation for reliable and consistent performance.

Learn how to get the most out of your photocell sensors at home by incorporating the tips in this article.

1. Install the Photocell Facing North

The most effective position for photocell sensors is facing north. This is because the device would not be exposed to direct sunlight. On the other hand, installing photocells facing south would result in too much exposure to midday sunlight.

2. Avoid Installing the Device in Shaded Areas

Installing photocells in shaded areas can hinder performance. Because of this, it is recommended to make sure the environment is clear and open.

3. Understand Footcandle Settings

Photocells activate and deactivate connected LED lights based on footcandle values. For example, a photocell can have the setting of 1.5 footcandles (or about 15-20 lumens), at which a signal will be sent to the light for activation.

If it is starting to get dark outside and you notice that your LED lights are not on, be sure to check the position and footcandle settings of your sensor.

4. Do Not Point Lights Towards the Sensor

Artificial lights, including LEDs and fluorescent lamps, can cause problems for photocell sensors when they are directed towards the device. If the nearby artificial fixtures are extremely bright, even stray light beams can make photocells ineffective. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid installing lights around the sensor.

5. Keep Photocell Clean for Reliable Performance

The lens of photocell sensors can accumulate debris or get filmy over time. This greatly reduces the performance of the device, because the sensor cannot detect proper ambient lighting levels in the surrounding area. If you notice the lens or face of the sensor is unclear, wipe the surface to get rid of the debris or residue.