What is an occupancy sensor switch?

Occupancy and vacancy sensors are devices that detect when a space is unoccupied and accordingly automatically turn OFF (or dim) the lights, thereby saving energy. The device may also turn the lights ON automatically upon detecting the presence of people, providing convenience and a potential security aid.

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

Occupancy sensors may offer an option selection to switch the occupancy sensor from automatically turning the lighting on to A vacancy sensor requires manual activation of the lighting by the occupant then turns the lights OFF automatically soon after an area is vacated.

How does occupancy sensor work?

An occupancy sensor detects the presence of movement within its given range. The sensor detects motion and transmits the signal to the control unit. If no movement is detected after a period of time set by the user, the controller determines the space is unoccupied and switches off the light.

Where are vacancy sensors used?

Requires use of occupancy or vacancy sensors in classrooms, conference/meeting rooms, break rooms, private offices, restrooms, storage rooms, janitorial closets and all spaces 300 sq. ft. or less.

What is a vacancy light switch?

A vacancy sensor switch, also known as a manual-on sensor, requires the user to manually turn on the lights and will automatically turn lights off when the room is vacant, and motion is no longer detected.

When would you use a vacancy sensor?

Vacancy sensors take that control one step further with a manual on setting, as opposed to automatic on. When an occupant enters a space, they must physically change the lighting to the on setting. This allows the occupant to determine if overhead lighting is needed or if the ambient sunlight is sufficient.

Where are vacancy sensors required?

A vacancy sensor must be installed to control lights in bathrooms, garages, laundry rooms, and utility rooms. Outdoor lighting connected to a building must be controlled with a manual on/off switch plus an astronomical timeclock, or photocell and motion sensor, or photocell and time switch.

What is a vacancy switch?

Vacancy sensors assume that a user will turn the lights on manually, typically via a wall switch. The vacancy sensor will then monitor the space to turn lights off if the space is then vacant for a specified length of time. Occupants in daylit spaces often need no additional electric lighting to perform basic tasks.

Do occupancy sensors need a neutral?

Some require neutral wire, while others do not. Generally if no neutral wire is required, then the type of load is limited to incandescent lights. Some occupancy sensors/ motion detectors turn On automatically, while others are activated by push button. All occupancy sensors turn off automatically.