PIR switches in cheap B&Q security lights

[paulgault]

Hi,

i've got an external security light (500w hallogen lamp) that comes on when the passive infra-red detects someone is there. i wanna boost the coverage a bit with a second (or even third) light.

i'm thinking of wiring them up so that when one light comes on they all come on. to do this i'll have to wire the PIR switches in parallel which then feed the lamps in parallel. this way as soon as one PIR switches the circuit on all lamps will light.

my main concern is that they're cheap B&Q bits of kit and i'm wondering if the PIRs will be up to it. if just one PIR switches and opens the circuit the current for 2 (or even 3) lamps will be flowing through it and i'm wondering if they'll be able to cope?

any thoughts?

Paul

 

[HandySparks]

If the lights are designed to allow switching of additional load, the instructions will say so and the maximum load will be stated. If not, you take the risk of overloading the PIRs and killing them. You'd be better off fitting good quality separate PIRs, properly specified for the job.