Installing a Leviton Motion Sensor Light Switch: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking to add convenience and energy efficiency to your home with a motion sensor light switch? Leviton's motion sensor switches are a popular choice, offering reliable performance and easy installation. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing a Leviton motion sensor light switch, ensuring your project is completed safely and correctly.
Before You Start: Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth installation:
- Leviton motion sensor light switch
- Wire stripper
- Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your switch)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Wire connectors (wire nuts)
- Electrical tape
- Wire cutter (optional)
Safety First: Turn Off Power and Test
Always prioritize safety when working with electricity. Before you start, turn off the power to the circuit you'll be working on at your home's main electrical panel. Once the power is off, test the wires in the electrical box to ensure they're not live using a non-contact voltage tester.
Removing the Old Switch
With the power off and the wires tested, you can safely remove the old switch. Unscrew the switch plate and the switch itself, then disconnect the wires from the switch. Use a wire stripper to remove about 3/4" of insulation from the ends of the wires, exposing the copper conductors.
Wiring the Leviton Motion Sensor Switch
The Leviton motion sensor switch has three wires: black, white, and green (or bare copper). The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green or bare copper wire is the ground wire. Connect the wires as follows:
| Leviton Switch Wire | Electrical Box Wire |
|---|---|
| Black (Hot) | Black |
| White (Neutral) | White |
| Green or Bare Copper (Ground) | Green or Bare Copper |
Secure the wires using wire connectors (wire nuts), ensuring a tight connection. Wrap the connectors with electrical tape for added protection.
Mounting the Leviton Motion Sensor Switch
With the wires connected, you can mount the switch to the electrical box. Align the switch with the box and secure it using the provided screws. Replace the switch plate, ensuring it's properly aligned and screwed in place.
Testing the Leviton Motion Sensor Switch
Before restoring power, test the motion sensor function of the switch. With the power still off, use a small object, like a ball or a toy, to trigger the motion sensor. The light should turn on when the object moves within the sensor's range. If the light doesn't turn on, double-check your wiring and ensure the sensor is properly aligned.
Once you've confirmed the motion sensor is working, restore power at your home's main electrical panel. Test the switch again to ensure it's working correctly. If the light turns on when you enter the room and turns off after a set period of inactivity, your Leviton motion sensor light switch is installed correctly.
