One of the most affordable and effective components of any home security system is motion detecting outdoor lighting. Installed by a professional electrician, these lights can give you years of reliable service and peace of mind.

But like any part of your household electrical system, problems can arise from time to time. If your outdoor security lights are staying on all the time, not coming on at all or otherwise performing poorly, you can try these simple DIY fixes before calling an electrician.

Most motion detecting light fixtures allow the motion detector to be aimed at a specific area. If your lights are coming on too often, it could be that the sensor is aimed at a nearby street or an area where wildlife roam around at night. If the lights aren't coming on at all, the sensor might be aimed directly at the ground or into the side of the house. Experiment with different sensor positions after dark and walk around in the areas you want to secure to fine-tune your aim.

Motion detectors also typically come equipped with sensitivity settings. Too sensitive, and something as small as a fly could set it off. Not sensitive enough, and a prowler could come within a few feet of the fixture before it lights up. Locate this setting and fine-tune it to your liking.

Another common setting for motion detector lights is a light duration time. This can be as long as 30 minutes, and if your lights are unwittingly set this way, it could give the impression that they stay on all night. A good duration for most security light applications is one to two minutes.

A dirty sensor can’t detect movement properly. If dirt and dust have accumulated on your motion detector, use a wet rag to wipe it clean, then re-test your lights.

Security lights can get off-kilter if there are interruptions in the electrical supply, such as power outages, power surges and accidentally flipping light switches or breakers. Sometimes this can result in lights that stay on or off all the time. To reset most motion detecting lights, shut off the power supply at the switch for at least 30 seconds, making sure there’s no motion in front of the sensor during this time. Then turn the light back on and test it to ensure proper function. If there was motion in front of the sensor while the power was off, this may need to be repeated.

Not all motion detector problems can be fixed this easily. If you have persistent problems, storm damage or faulty installation, it’s important to call in your local licensed electricians for a professional evaluation and repair.

Showing some love to your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day is a beautiful thing. Are you also showing that love to the electronics that keep things running smoothly in your home year-round? Much like your honey, ignoring those electronics for any length of time without giving them a little much-needed TLC could leave you in the doghouse.

Or your 2-year-old… Or your morning coffee… Or your dog. Your electronic devices need to be protected. Are they properly cased and safely stored?

Cleaning your electronics immediately is essential after unwanted exposures to items of all sorts, from your daily cola, food crumbs, dirt and grime, to a hosing from an over-friendly pet, and more. Don’t just grab a wet paper towel. Make certain to use compatible cleaning solutions and rags by making a worthwhile investment in specialized cleaning sets available for each of your sensitive devices. Here are some tips for properly cleaning and maintaining your electronic devices:

Recycle unnecessary or extraneous cords and chargers. Properly organize wires leading to electronics like televisions and DVD players, which are dust bunny magnets courtesy of static electricity. Untangle wires and straighten them together with zip ties to allow for easier cleaning and vacuuming without dislodging connections.

Opt for additional insurance or available protection plans that cover the parts and labor necessary to resurrect expensive devices.

Remove batteries from items you don’t use often to prevent damage from corrosion. Keep batteries on hand for items like remotes (which should also be cleaned) and store chargers carefully. Consider the addition of a professionally designed and installed charging station for the safety of sensitive portable electronics and to drastically cut the clutter.

Today’s expensive electronics and appliances are more sensitive to power spikes and surges than their predecessors. Keep them protected with whole house and point-of-use surge protection. The cost of replacing a single item destroyed by a surge will often cover your investment. Losing a single large home appliance will cost you double the investment of professionally installed surge protection from Mr. Electric®.

Ready to show the love? Contact Mr. Electric today.