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Motion Sensors

Home Motion Sensor Upgrades

Smarter Lighting and Security Starts Here

Lighting that thinks for you. That’s the beauty of motion sensors, because they turn lights on automatically when you need them, and off when you don’t. From boosting home security to saving on your electric bill, motion sensors are one of the easiest upgrades with the biggest impact.

At BTE Electric, we install motion sensors indoors and outdoors, helping homeowners across mid-Michigan enjoy smarter, safer, and more energy-efficient homes.

Why Do Homeowners Call Us to Install Motion Sensors?

We hear things like:

  • “Can you make my garage light turn on automatically when I walk in?”
  • “I want outdoor lights that come on when someone approaches.”
  • “My motion light only works sometimes, can you replace it?”
  • “We want to improve security without leaving the lights on all night.”
  • “Is there a motion sensor that won’t trigger from squirrels and wind?”


Whatever the concern, BTE Electric can help you find and install the right motion sensor for your needs.

Common Questions About Motion Sensors

Q. Where Are Motion Sensors Used in a Home?

ANSWER: Motion sensors are incredibly versatile. We install them in and around:

Outdoor Areas:

  • Front porches
  • Driveways and garages
  • Walkways and paths
  • Backyards and patios
  • Detached garages or sheds
  • Pool or deck areas


Indoor Areas:

  • Garages and utility rooms
  • Basements and stairways
  • Hallways
  • Laundry rooms
  • Bathrooms
  • Closets and pantries


You can even combine motion sensors with smart lighting systems or dimmer switches for added control.

ANSWER: Installing motion sensors offers more than just convenience. Here’s what our customers love most:

  • Automatic lighting: Hands-free operation when you enter or leave a space
  •  Energy savings: No more lights left on accidentally
  • Improved security: Startle intruders and keep exterior areas well-lit
  • Better safety: Reduce trips and falls in dark stairwells or garages
  • Low maintenance: No need to remember switches or timers


It’s one of the easiest ways to add comfort and safety to your home.

ANSWER: Different homes and needs call for different sensor types. Some of the most common we install include:

  • Wall Switch Sensors: Replace a regular switch and turn indoor lights on/off based on movement
  • Ceiling-Mounted Sensors: Ideal for large rooms, basements, or open layouts
  • Outdoor Floodlight Sensors: Motion-triggered security lights for driveways, garages, and backyards
  • Dual-Tech Sensors: Combine multiple technologies (like infrared and ultrasonic) for more reliable detection
  • Smart Motion Sensors: Work with Wi-Fi lighting or security systems and can be customized from your phone

Not sure what you need? We’ll help you choose the right one and install it to code.

ANSWER: Motion sensors themselves aren’t required by code, but when used to control lighting, they must still follow all standard electrical code requirements. That includes:

  • Correct circuit and breaker sizing
  • Proper grounding
  • Rated junction boxes
  • Tamper-resistant and weather-resistant components when outdoors
  • Accessibility and override capability (for many indoor systems)


BTE Electric installs all motion sensor systems safely and to NEC standards, so you don’t have to worry about failed inspections or fire hazards.

ANSWER: Costs vary based on the location, the sensor type, and whether we’re replacing a switch or running new wiring. Here’s a rough idea:

  • Basic indoor switch sensor: $125–$200
  • Outdoor motion-activated floodlight: $200–$350
  • Ceiling-mounted sensor in garage or basement: $175–$300
  • Smart sensor integrated with lighting system: $250–$450+
  • Multiple sensors or whole-house coverage: Custom quote


We provide clear, up front pricing and make sure your installation is done right the first time.

ANSWER: Yes! Most indoor motion sensors have an override feature to use the switch normally when needed.

ANSWER: Some outdoor sensors can be set to ignore small animals. We’ll help you choose one that matches your home environment.

ANSWER: Absolutely. We can design setups where one sensor controls a group of lights or fixtures.

ANSWER: Placement and sensitivity are key. We’ll install and test the sensor for proper range, angle, and timing.

Get Motion Sensor Lighting Installed the Right Way

Whether you want better lighting in the garage, more security outside, or just want to stop yelling at your kids to turn off the basement lights…Motion sensors are a simple solution that pays off fast. Call BTE Electric today and let’s talk about the best motion sensor options for your home.