Is 500 Watts Typical for Toilet Motion Sensors? Experts Answer Ramone

AI Thread Summary
The discussion clarifies that a PIR motion sensor itself consumes very little power, typically less than a few watts, while it can control lighting loads up to 500 watts. The specifications mentioned refer to the maximum load the sensor can switch, not its own energy consumption. Users express surprise at the lack of information regarding standby power usage, which could be a significant factor in overall energy consumption. One participant shares details about a specific motion sensor module that operates on 5 volts DC and draws minimal current. Overall, the specs provided are considered typical for motion sensors used in settings like office toilets.
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Dear Experts

I come across a website showing specifications of a PIR motion sensor for toilets.

I quote the specs :

Type 180° Motion Sensor
Application Toilet, WC, Bathrooms, Restroom, Cloakroom
Technology Wall mount Passive Infrared PIR motion sensor
Reach 10 meters
Time Setting 5 Sec - 15 Minutes
Lux setting facility 2-2000 Lux
Load switching 500 Watts Inductive - 230V AC



I cannot believe it!

A motion sensor consumes 500watts ?

Is this typical for say a normal office toilet?

For instance, a PIR motion sensor used to save toilet lighting throughout the day.

So, I just like to know how much electricity typically such a sensor consumes and is the above specs typical?

Thanks very much .

Have a nice day.

Best regards
Ramone
 
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No, the sensor itself only consumes less than a few watts, but it can switch lights which consume up to 500 watts.

I have a motion sensor that switches a pair of 150 watt lamps when it detects motion and provided it is not in daylight.
The lamps go out after 30 seconds or so.

So, yes, yours is probably pretty typical.
 
I'm surprised that the specs don't indicate standby power usage. That could be a selling point where other specs are typical.
 
NascentOxygen said:
I'm surprised that the specs don't indicate standby power usage. That could be a selling point where other specs are typical.

Maybe they themselves do not know either.
 
Hi Everyone,

Thanks for your comments.

Does anyone know how much standby power is consumed ? For example, 1% out of total usage?

Thanks.
regards
Ramone
 
Here is a motion sensor module:

http://www.parallax.com/dl/docs/prod/audiovis/pirsensor-v1.2.pdf

As you can see, it runs off 5 volts DC and draws less than 100 μA.

If one of these was used in a mains powered device, there would be losses in developing 5 volts DC but the motion sensor itself would not draw much power.

This power would be constant, though. 24 hours a day.
 

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