Skip to content

Free Shipping over $99! (excludes 48"+)

Collection: Occupancy Sensors

Enjoy hands-free illumination with occupancy sensors. These smart switches turn lights on automatically when you enter a room and off when it becomes vacant. Ideal for convenience in garages, kitchens, and commercial spaces, they are an effortless way to reduce energy waste.

Compare (0/5)

37 products

Lutron MS-OPS5M-LA Maestro Sensor Switch, 5A, Single-Pole/3-Way, Passive Infrared, Light Almond
No Neutral RequiredQuick Ship

Lutron

Lutron MS-OPS5M-LA Maestro Sensor Switch, 5A, Single-Pole/3-Way, Passive Infrared, Light Almond

Regular price $34.95
Sale price $34.95 Regular price $0.00

An occupancy sensor is a fully automated motion sensor that turns lights on automatically when you enter a room and turns them off automatically when you leave. This device provides the ultimate hands-free convenience, ensuring you never have to fumble for a switch in the dark or worry about lights being left on in an empty room.

The Ultimate in Hands-Free Convenience

The logic of an occupancy sensor is simple: when you're there, the lights are on; when you're not, they're off. This "Auto-On/Auto-Off" functionality is achieved using advanced technologies like Passive Infrared (PIR) or Dual-Technology to accurately detect a person's presence. Once you leave the space and the sensor no longer detects motion for a preset time delay (typically adjustable from 30 seconds to 30 minutes), it will automatically switch the lights off, saving energy without a second thought.

Best Applications for Occupancy Sensors

This full automation is ideal for high-traffic, transitional spaces, or rooms where your hands are often full.

  • Laundry Rooms & Pantries: Walk in with an armful of clothes or groceries and have the light turn on instantly.
  • Walk-in Closets & Supply Rooms: The light is on when you need it and off when you close the door.
  • Garages: Drive in and have the lights turn on automatically for a safe and convenient entry into your home.
  • Hallways: Provides safe passage at night without needing to find a switch.

Set It and Forget It Automation

An occupancy sensor is the perfect choice when convenience is your top priority. It offers seamless, intuitive lighting control that works for you in the background, making your home more functional and efficient. Explore the complete collection of reliable motion sensor light switches at Bees Lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an occupancy sensor and a vacancy sensor?

An occupancy sensor is "Auto-On / Auto-Off," meaning it turns the lights on for you. A vacancy sensor is "Manual-On / Auto-Off," requiring you to press the button to turn the lights on.

Are occupancy sensors compatible with LED bulbs?

Yes. Most modern occupancy sensor switch models are engineered for compatibility with dimmable and non-dimmable LED bulbs, as well as CFL and incandescent loads.

Do these sensors require a neutral wire?

Some do. While many mechanical sensors use the ground wire for reference, many high-end dual technology sensor models require a neutral wire (white) to power their advanced circuitry.

Can an occupancy sensor be used in a bathroom?

Yes, but check your local building codes. In some regions (like California), a vacancy sensor may be required in bathrooms to meet Title 24 energy standards.

Why do the lights turn off while I’m still in the room?

This usually happens if the sensor’s "time delay" is set too short or if the sensor is blocked. In rooms with low movement (like an office), a dual technology sensor is recommended to prevent "false-offs."

Can I turn the lights off manually?

Yes. Every occupancy sensor we carry includes a manual override button that allows you to turn the lights off if you want to leave the room early.

Can one sensor control multiple light fixtures?

Yes, as long as the total wattage of all fixtures combined does not exceed the sensor's maximum load rating.

Is there a "dimming" occupancy sensor?

Yes. We carry specialized dimmer occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights on to a preset dimming level.

Can pet movement trigger the sensor?

Yes, large pets can trigger a pir sensor. Adjusting the sensitivity or choosing a sensor with "pet immunity" or a higher mounting position can help reduce these triggers.

Do occupancy sensors work with 3-way circuits?

Yes. Many sensors are designed for multi-location use, where you can pair a sensor with a second sensor or a standard mechanical switch at the other end of a hallway.