Motion sensors aren’t just for homes and security lights. In commercial, hospitality, and industrial spaces, they’re essential for saving power and keeping people safe. But not all motion sensors are the same — and choosing the wrong one can lead to constant false triggers or lights that don’t turn on when you need them. This guide breaks down PIR vs microwave sensors, timer and lux settings, and load ratings, so you can select the right solution for your corridors, parking areas, warehouses, and residential complexes.
We’ve put together this resource after helping hundreds of South African businesses, schools, hotels, and body corporates upgrade to 30 m corridor sensors and other long-range solutions. Consider this your go-to technical guide for smart, efficient lighting control.
Key Takeaways
- PIR sensors work with line-of-sight infrared detection — great for passages and open spaces.
- Microwave sensors detect motion even through some obstacles — ideal for service corridors or warehouses.
- Timer settings range from 3 s–15 min, letting you tune lighting to foot or vehicle traffic.
- Lux control prevents lights from activating when daylight is sufficient.
- Load ratings up to 1000 W LED ensure compatibility with multiple fixtures per circuit.
- Correct mounting height and zone planning = reliable, efficient detection.
PIR vs Microwave Sensors
PIR (Passive Infrared)
PIR sensors detect changes in heat signatures within their field of view — usually shaped like a cone or corridor. They’re reliable, energy-efficient, and best used in places with a clear line of sight, such as office corridors or school hallways.
Microwave Sensors
Microwave sensors emit low-energy waves that reflect off moving objects. They offer 360° coverage and can detect motion through thin partitions, making them ideal for warehouses, back-of-house hotel corridors, or areas with shelving.
Choosing Between Them
Use PIR for public-facing areas where precision matters and you want to avoid false triggers through walls. Use microwave for complex or obstructed layouts where detection must cover hidden angles.
Choose PIR for precision and microwave for coverage — or combine both for the best of both worlds.
Timer & Lux Settings
Timer Control
Most sensors let you adjust the “hold time” from a few seconds to several minutes. For parking areas and warehouses, longer delays prevent lights from flickering on/off too quickly when vehicles move through slowly.
Lux Control
Lux settings keep lights off when there’s enough ambient daylight — perfect for hotels with well-lit day passages or semi-open residential walkways.
Fine-Tuning
Test during typical traffic periods. Aim for a balance between savings and convenience — no one likes a light that switches off while they’re still in the space.
A properly tuned timer and lux setting turn “just sensors” into a true energy-saving system.
Load Ratings & Compatibility
Understanding Load Capacity
Our corridor motion sensors handle up to 1000 W of LED load or 2000 W of incandescent — enough for multiple panels or fittings on one circuit.
LED Compatibility
Older sensors sometimes struggle with very low LED loads, causing flicker. Our range is designed for modern LED fixtures.
Safe Installation
Always check your total circuit load and wiring. For shared circuits, consider consulting a qualified electrician to avoid overloads.
Correctly sizing your load prevents nuisance tripping and extends sensor life.
For more inspiration, explore our full motion sensor collection and read our topic-specific posts: Offices, Schools, Hotels, Parking Areas, Warehouses, Residential Complexes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are PIR or microwave sensors better for long corridors?
PIR is often enough, but microwave covers more hidden angles. For maximum coverage, a mix is ideal.
Q2: Can I use these outdoors?
Yes, if they are IP-rated for weather protection. Otherwise, use under a covered area.
Q3: What’s the best timer setting?
Start at 3–5 minutes and adjust based on traffic — longer for slow-moving areas like warehouses, shorter for quick-use passages.
Q4: Do sensors work during load-shedding?
Yes, as long as they’re connected to a backup or inverter circuit that powers the lights.
Q5: Can I retrofit these into an existing building?
Yes — most models are surface- or recess-mountable and can be integrated with existing wiring.
