How to Reset a PIR Motion Sensor

PIR Motion Sensors are a handy security accessory, but just like any electrical appliance they can have issues. If you want to avoid fully replacing the component, trying to first reset it can solve a host of problems.

What is a PIR Sensor?

Although you may be used to seeing a bulky box that is attached to a light or similar, the actual PIR Sensor is a chip.

PIR stands for Passive Infrared. It detects heat from an object in motion like people, animals, and cars. When this heat is detected, it changes its signal between the two sensors, which in turn triggers the action that it is connected to (turning on a light, setting off an alarm, etc).

When does my PIR need resetting?

Whenever you encounter a PIR not working as it should be, a reset is a great place to start troubleshooting (after replacing the battery and adjusting the sensitivity). However, the most common PIR malfunctions are:

• Changes in how consistently it detects motion
• The light in the sensor staying on for an extended period (more than a few minutes)
• Not detecting large objects like people and cars

PIR Sensitivity

If a customer is complaining that their PIR sensor is activating too often or not enough, it might be as simple as adjusting its sensitivity.

How to reset a PIR

Depending on the type of sensor, the way you reset it might be slightly different. However, you should first change the bulb in the PIR to make sure that the issue is with the sensor rather than with the bulb.

If the sensor has a switch, try turning the switch off and on in quick succession 4 or 5 times, or until the light stays on. When the light stays on, leave the switch on and this should have completed the reset.

If the sensor does not have a switch, try turning it off at the circuit breaker for at least 30 seconds. Try not to do this too often, as it can cause potentially dangerous electrical damage.