{"id":4014966,"date":"2021-12-14T02:55:00","date_gmt":"2021-12-14T07:55:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/housecaravan.com\/?p=4014966"},"modified":"2021-12-23T00:56:39","modified_gmt":"2021-12-23T05:56:39","slug":"why-do-photocells-face-north","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/housecaravan.com\/why-do-photocells-face-north\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Do Photocells Face North?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Have you ever wondered why photocells face north? Photocells are popular nowadays and more people are choosing to add photocells into their lighting fixtures. There are many benefits that you can get from photocells. However, proper placement is required so that it will work efficiently. This makes one wonder why they should face north. Let us find out the answer to this question below.<\/p>\n

Why do photocells face north? One of the reasons why photocells face north is that it provides them with a balanced on and off schedule due to the arc of the sun. A photocell that faces east and has a clear view in all directions will turn the lights on and off early. On the other hand, a photocell that faces west will turn lights on and off late. If you want to install the photocell on the south side, make sure to face it west, east, or to the ground.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Photocells are used to control a light fixture. It is usually used in outdoor security lighting. Photocells automatically illuminate the fixture at night and turn off in daylight. On the other hand, photocells will not work properly unless they are placed in the proper direction. Read the rest of the article to learn more about the topic.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image by Florian Kurz<\/a> from Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Why is Photocell Placement Important?<\/h2>\n

Photocell placement is important because if it is not placed properly, it will not operate. The main purpose of a photocell is to control lighting systems so that they automatically illuminate the surroundings at night.<\/strong> Avoid placing the photocells in a sheltered or shaded area. It is recommended that you place the photocell in a direction where it faces north and away from sunlight. Moreover, see to it that there are no artificial lights that surround it at night.<\/p>\n

Should You Point Photocells South?<\/h2>\n

If you are located in the northern hemisphere, it is ideal that you should not place the photocells facing south. The reason for this is how the sun arcs. Take note that photocells that face south are exposed to direct sunlight.<\/strong> On the other hand, if they face north, they can be able to detect light without direct sunlight. It is important that you do not expose photocells to direct sunlight because it can burn out the components and damage the photocell.<\/p>\n

Should Photocells Face North?<\/h2>\n

Photocells should face north. Make sure that you place it strategically so that you can get the best control for your light fixture.<\/strong> If you are placing the photocell outdoor, do not face it south because it will pick up the excessive sun that can diminish its effectiveness. If you cannot place the photocell north, you can place it west or east. You can also check out this article titled, are all photocells the same<\/a>? We have shared tips and ideas that you can refer to.<\/p>\n

Where to Place a Photocell?<\/h2>\n

Photocells are usually placed between six to eight feet of the window area. It should be located centrally to the area that is illuminated by the electrical lighting.<\/strong> Make sure to mount the photocell so that it faces a reflected light and not direct lighting. You can also check out this article that we have written that discusses if a photocell will work in the shade<\/a>. We have shared tips and ideas that you can refer to.<\/p>\n

Where to Place Photocells at Night?<\/h2>\n

At night, make sure not to place the photocells in a direction where they face artificial light sources like streetlamps.<\/strong> This should be avoided because the artificial light will deceive the photocell and it will turn off because it will sense the artificial light as daylight. Photocells should also not be placed near light reflections because it can cause the light to repeatedly turn on and off.<\/p>\n

What are the Features of a Photocell?<\/h2>\n

A photocell is an electronic component that is a resistor. The resistive value of the photocell changes when light passes across the surface electrodes.<\/strong> Take note that the resistance of the photocell lessens as more light pass across it. When placed in an area that is completely dark, the photocell displays a high resistive value of about 10 megaohms. This enables the photocell component to control the light fixture. We have also shared this article that discusses why dusk to dawn light stays on all day<\/a>. We have shared helpful tips and ideas that you can refer to.<\/p>\n

\u2705 Video – Photoelectric Cells and Their Applications<\/h3>\n

Physics4students shared the video below on YouTube. It discusses what photoelectric cells are and their applications. A photoelectric cell is a device that converts light energy into electrical energy. Watch the video to learn more about the different types of photoelectric cells.<\/p>\n\n\n

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