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Topic: Photocell under this type of roof?

User: Akten, Location: New York

Asked on: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 7:12 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 8:23 pm EDT

Question: Hi, I was wondering if photocell lighting (to replace the light shown in photo) would work on the location shown here? I am not sure if the shade from roof would affect the performance / operation of a photocell wall pack type lighting.

Okay, let's analyze whether a photocell wall pack light would work well in the location shown in your picture.

Factors to Consider



Photocell Sensitivity

Photocells need a certain amount of ambient light to register that it's daytime and switch off the light. Different photocells have varying sensitivity levels. Some are more tolerant of shade than others.


Direction of the Photocell

The direction the photocell faces is critical. If the photocell is pointing directly into the overhanging eave or wall, it will likely be shaded for a large portion of the day and may not register daylight properly.

Depth and Angle of the Overhang

The deeper the overhang and the lower the angle of the sun, the more shade will be cast on the wall.


Surrounding Environment

The surrounding environment plays a part. Does light reflect from the adjacent wall or other surfaces?

Wall Color
: A light color will bounce light back up and may help the photocell detect daylight.

Likely Outcome Based on Your Photo

From the photo,

it's very likely that a standard photocell wall pack would
not work reliably in that location without some adjustments. Here's why: Overhang Shade

The overhang casts a significant shadow on the wall. This shaded area is where the light fixture is located.

Angle of the Light

the fixture is located relatively high up the wall, so the photocell will likely be facing slightly up. The angle will affect the reading of daylight.

Potential Solutions & Considerations


Choose a More Sensitive Photocell

Look for a photocell light fixture that is advertised as "shade tolerant" or has adjustable sensitivity settings.2.

Adjust Photocell Orientation

Some photocells are adjustable. If possible, try to angle the photocell
outward and downward so it can "see" more of the open sky and less of the shaded wall. You might be able to slightly modify the fixture mount (within safety and code limitations, of course) to improve the photocell's exposure to daylight.3.

Remote Photocell

Consider using a wall pack light with a
remote photocell. These consist of a standard light fixture and a separate photocell sensor that can be mounted away from the fixture in a better-lit location. You would need to run a low-voltage wire between the light and the sensor.4.

Timer + Photocell Combination

Use a light fixture that combines a timer with a photocell. The timer can be set to turn the light off and on at specific times as a backup in case the photocell doesn't function properly due to the shade.5.

Motion Sensor Light with Dusk-to-Dawn Feature

Some motion sensor lights have a dusk-to-dawn (photocell) override. The light only comes on when motion is detected
and it's dark enough. This could work if you primarily want the light for security or when someone is approaching.6.

Alternative Location

Could you install the light fixture in a slightly different location on the wall that receives more daylight? Even moving it a few inches to the side could make a difference.

Recommendation

I would

highly recommend testing
the photocell light in that specific location before* permanently installing it. You can temporarily wire it up (safely and following all electrical codes) and observe its behavior over a few days to see if it turns on and off reliably.

Before undertaking any electrical work, be sure to turn off the power at the breaker and consult a qualified electrician. Flag for review

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