DIY Motion Sensor Sprinkler

One of the best ways of managing unwanted pests in your yard, from dogs to deer, is to install a sprinkler that is triggered by a motion sensor. This setup will turn your sprinkler on when unwanted animals walk into your yard, likely scaring away the problem in a humane and safe way. Creating your own motion sensor sprinkler requires a basic motion sensor for a light socket and a sprinkler that runs off of a 110-volt power supply and garden hose connection.

You can connect a sprinkler to a hose and electric motion sensor.

Step 1

Locate an outdoor light socket nearest to where you want to install the sprinkler. Make sure the light switch that controls the socket is turned to the "off" position and remove any light bulbs inside the socket.

Step 2

Screw a motion-sensing adapter into the empty light socket. The base of the adapter has the same threads as a standard light bulb for an easy fit.

Step 3

Screw the supply side connector on the electric sprinkler timer to an outdoor hose faucet.

Step 4

Screw a hose into the output side of the timer. Tighten by hand for a secure connection.

Step 5

Screw the other end of the hose into the threaded port on the garden sprinkler. Place the sprinkler in the middle of the lawn, or positioned in the direction where wildlife appear to be accessing the yard.

Step 6

Set the switch on the sprinkler timer to the "run" or "on" position. Leave the sprinkler timer on this setting as long as you want the motion sensor to activate the sprinklers.

Step 7

Screw an electric outlet adapter into the socket on the motion sensor. This device will create a 110-volt plug that is tripped by the sensor.

Step 8

Plug the sprinkler timer into the outlet on the motion sensor. Turn the light switch for the sensor to the "on" position. Now, when the sensor detects movement, the sprinkler will turn on.