Standalone PIR Motion Sensors
Add motion-activated lighting to any outdoor fixture. Replace the sensor, not the entire light.
What Are Standalone PIR Motion Sensors?
Standalone PIR (Passive Infrared) motion sensors are separate units that detect movement and automatically activate outdoor lighting. Unlike lights with pre-fitted sensors, standalone units mount independently either beside or below your light fixture or on nearby walls, giving you flexibility and long-term cost savings.
You can even run more than one light from your sensor – so your sensor could turn on all or several outside lights on around the house when someone approaches – great for security.
These sensors detect infrared heat from people or animals moving within their detection zone, triggering your outdoor lights to illuminate for a set duration before automatically switching off. Perfect for porches, driveways, garden paths, and any outdoor area requiring security or convenience lighting.
Why Choose Standalone PIR Sensors Instead of Pre-Fitted?
The critical difference between standalone and pre-fitted PIR sensors:
Stand Alone Sensor:
- Cost: around £30 will get a good sensor
- Mount sensor remotely from the light if required – enhanced security.
- Should the sensor fail, replacement is easy – no need to replace the light!
- Guaranteed
- Trigger more than one light – added security.
Pre fitted Sensor:
- If the sensor fails – change the light
- Cost £75 – £200
- Only runs that light
- Light has to be where you want the sensor
Our recommendation:
Any outdoor light can be supplied with a standalone PIR motion sensor. This gives you the security and convenience of motion-activated lighting without the long-term risk of having to replace expensive fixtures when sensors inevitably wear out.
Standalone PIR Motion Sensor Options
We can supply high-quality standalone PIR sensors compatible with all our outdoor lighting.
Choose the configuration that suits your installation:
Mounting Options
- Flat Wall Mounting: Standard installation on flat exterior walls beside your light fixture
- Corner Mounting: Special bracket for mounting on external building corners where two walls meet
Finish Options
Available in multiple colors to match or complement your outdoor lighting:
- White
- Black
- Grey
All standalone PIR sensors include:
- Adjustable detection range (typically 8-12 metres)
- Adjustable time delay (how long lights stay on after detecting motion)
- Adjustable sensitivity settings
- Weather-resistant construction (IP44 rated minimum)
- Manufacturer’s guarantee
- Installation instructions
Installation & Placement Tips
Professional installation recommended: PIR sensors require electrical connection. Always hire a qualified electrician for installation to ensure compliance with UK wiring regulations and proper weatherproofing.
Optimal Placement
- Height: Mount 2-2.5 metres above ground for best detection range
- Position: Install beside or above the light fixture, angled slightly downward
- Coverage: Aim sensor toward areas where motion should trigger lighting (driveways, paths, entrances)
- Avoid: Positioning sensors directly facing heat sources (air vents, boilers) or areas with moving foliage
Reducing False Triggers
To minimize unwanted activations from pets, wildlife, or environmental factors:
- Adjust sensitivity settings (lower sensitivity for areas with frequent pet activity)
- Angle sensor away from moving vegetation or trees
- Ensure sensor isn’t facing reflective surfaces that could bounce heat signatures
- Position away from heat sources like central heating exhausts
- Keep sensor lens clean—dust and debris reduce accuracy
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sensor Not Activating
- Check power supply and connections
- Verify detection range settings aren’t set too low
- Ensure sensor lens is clean and unobstructed
- Confirm sensor is angled toward target detection area
Frequent False Alarms
- Reduce sensitivity setting
- Reposition sensor away from moving foliage or heat sources
- Adjust detection angle to exclude problematic areas
- Check for reflective surfaces in detection zone
Lights Staying On Too Long (or Not Long Enough)
- Adjust time delay setting (typically 10 seconds to 10 minutes)
- Most sensors have a dial or switch for duration control
- Consult manufacturer instructions for your specific model
All Our Outdoor Lights Can Include PIR Sensors
Every outdoor wall light, porch light, and exterior fixture in our collection can be supplied with a compatible standalone PIR motion sensor. Simply add a sensor to your order, or purchase separately for existing lights.
Benefits of adding PIR sensors:
- Energy savings: Lights only on when needed, not all night
- Enhanced security: Automatic illumination deters intruders
- Convenience: Hands-free lighting when arriving home
- Safety: Well-lit paths reduce trip hazards
- Long-term value: Replace sensor only if needed, not entire fixture
Related Outdoor Lighting Resources
- Outdoor Swan Neck Wall Lights Guide
- Browse All Outdoor Lighting
- IP Ratings for Outdoor Lights Explained
- Corner Mounting for Outdoor Lights
All PIR sensors supplied by Great Lighting UK are guaranteed and compatible with our outdoor lighting range. Expert installation advice available. Free UK mainland delivery on orders over £60.