Finding the right outdoor lighting can be tricky. You want something bright enough to illuminate your yard or patio, but not so glaring it keeps the neighbors awake all night. This is where a photocell comes in handy. A photocell allows your lights to turn on automatically at dusk and off at dawn, saving you the hassle and making sure your home always has just the right amount of light.

If you have Hampton Bay outdoor lighting fixtures, you’ll want to get a matching Hampton Bay photocell to control them. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose? As a long-time fan of Hampton Bay lighting, I’ve tested quite a few photocells over the years. Read on for my complete buying guide to help you find just the right Hampton Bay photocell for your needs.

What Exactly is a Hampton Bay Photocell?

First things first, let’s cover the basics. A photocell, also known as a photoelectric sensor, is a small device that detects natural light. When the sun starts to go down and the light dims, the photocell switches the connected lights on automatically. When the sun comes back up in the morning, the photocell turns the lights back off.

Hampton Bay photocells are designed specifically for use with Hampton Bay outdoor lighting fixtures. They conveniently screw right into the socket of your Hampton Bay light. Once installed, the photocell takes over control of turning the light on and off each day. No more fumbling around in the dark to get the lights switched on every evening!

How Does a Hampton Bay Photocell Actually Work?

The magic of a Hampton Bay photocell lies in its photoelectric sensor. This sensor has a solar cell that generates a small electrical current when exposed to light. When it’s bright out, the solar cell absorbs a lot of light energy and produces enough electricity to power an electromagnet inside the photocell. This electromagnet holds a small metal lever in place, keeping the circuit open so your lights stay off.

As the sun starts to set each evening, there is less natural light available. The solar cell generates less electricity, so the electromagnet weakens. This allows the spring-loaded metal lever to snap back into place, closing the circuit and turning your Hampton Bay lights on for the night!

The next morning when the sun comes up, the process happens in reverse. The solar cell starts producing more electricity again, powering up the electromagnet. It pulls the lever back open, breaking the circuit once more so your lights turn off during the day. Such a clever little gadget, isn’t it?

Where to Buy a Genuine Hampton Bay Photocell

Now that you understand what a photocell is and how it works, where do you buy one? There are a few options:

• Home Depot – As the exclusive retailer of Hampton Bay lighting products, Home Depot carries a wide selection of official Hampton Bay photocells online and in most stores. This is my go-to for convenience and authenticity.
• Amazon – Hampton Bay photocells are also available for easy ordering on Amazon. Just double check that the listing states it’s an authentic Hampton Bay product.
• Hardware Stores – Some local hardware stores and lighting showrooms may stock or can special order official Hampton Bay replacement parts like photocells. Always ask to see the packaging to verify it’s a genuine Hampton Bay product.
• Hampton Bay Website – While you can’t buy directly from the Hampton Bay website, you can find authorized retailers of Hampton Bay products listed there. This is useful for checking if a store actually carries authentic Hampton Bay parts.

The most important thing is making sure you get an official Hampton Bay photocell rather than a generic third party one. The Hampton Bay photocells are designed and calibrated specifically for their lighting products, ensuring the best performance.

Step-By-Step Guide to Installing a Hampton Bay Photocell

Once you’ve purchased an authentic Hampton Bay photocell, it’s time for the fun part—installing it! Here is a step-by-step guide to get your new photocell up and running:

Turn Off Power

Safety first! Switch off the circuit breaker for the outdoor lighting circuit you’ll be installing the photocell on. Verify power is off by flipping the light switch on and off a few times.

Remove Existing Bulb/Photocell

Unscrew and remove the existing light bulb or photocell from the socket of the Hampton Bay light fixture. Some force may be needed if they’ve been in place for a while.

Install Photocell

Screw in the new Hampton Bay photocell unit clockwise into the socket, making sure the threads catch properly. Tighten all the way until snug and seated firmly in place.

Adjust Sensitivity Dial

Most Hampton Bay photocells have a small plastic dial on the side to adjust sensitivity. Turn it up to make the lights come on earlier in the evening. Turn down to make them activate later at night.

Restore Power

Flip the circuit breaker back on for the outdoor lighting circuit. Check that the photocell has power by covering it briefly with your hand to trigger the lights on.

Test It Out

Wait until dusk and verify your Hampton Bay photocell works correctly, automatically turning the lights on at the desired time. Make any final sensitivity adjustments needed. Then relax and enjoy the convenience of automatic lighting!

And that’s all there is to installing a Hampton Bay photocell! Just follow the simple steps above and you’ll be up and running in no time.

Using Hampton Bay Photocells for Outdoor Lighting

Now for the fun part—picking out the perfect outdoor lights to pair with your Hampton Bay photocell! The great thing about Hampton Bay lighting fixtures is that they are designed to be compatible with Hampton Bay’s own photocells.

Here are some of my favorite outdoor lighting options that work perfectly with a Hampton Bay photocell:

• Porch Lights – Illuminate your front or back entryway automatically at night with a photocell-controlled porch light. Hampton Bay makes several styles of porch lights from classic to modern.
• Security Lights – Deter intruders and illuminate walkways with a bright flood light hooked up to a Hampton Bay photocell. These give visibility exactly when you need it.
• Path Lights – Line your garden path or sidewalk with subtle low-voltage path lights that shine automatically at night via photocell. Hampton Bay’s path lights come in both metal and weather-resistant plastic housings.
• Step Lights – Improve visibility and safety on stairs and decks with Hampton Bay step lights on a photocell. No more fumbling for switches when your hands are full!
• Post Lights – Add ambiance to your yard with Hampton Bay’s charming post top lights. The photocell makes them effortless to enjoy each evening.
• Accent Lights – Use small accent lights to spotlight trees, gardens or architectural details. With a Hampton Bay photocell, the light comes on every night like magic!

The options are endless with Hampton Bay’s wide selection of outdoor lighting. Just add a Hampton Bay photocell to make any of them completely automated!

Compatible Bulb Types for Hampton Bay Photocells

Hampton Bay photocells are designed to work with a wide variety of bulb types:

• Incandescent bulbs – The classic lighting choice, incandescent bulbs work well with Hampton Bay photocells. Just be aware they consume more electricity.
• CFL bulbs – For greater energy efficiency, many people opt for compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs. These are compatible with Hampton Bay photocells.
• LED bulbs – For the greatest efficiency, LED bulbs are the top choice. Hampton Bay photocells work seamlessly with LED technology.
• Halogen bulbs – For brighter light in a more compact bulb, halogen lamps are a good option. They can be used with Hampton Bay photocells.
• Smart bulbs – Hampton Bay photocells are even compatible with smart bulbs, allowing you to control brightness and color via your phone!
• Dusk-to-dawn bulbs – Specialized D2D bulbs work well for all-night lighting. Pair them with a Hampton Bay photocell for automated on-off control.

The key is choosing a bulb that meets the wattage requirements of the fixture. As long as you stay within the recommended wattage range, virtually any bulb type will work well with a Hampton Bay photocell. The flexibility is fantastic!

Troubleshooting Hampton Bay Photocell Issues

Hampton Bay photocells are generally quite reliable, but issues can occasionally crop up. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common problems:

Lights won’t turn on:

• Check power to the fixture and photocell connections.
• Make sure the photocell is tightly threaded into the socket.
• Try adjusting the sensitivity dial to trigger the lights earlier.
• Replace an old photocell if necessary.

Lights stay on all day:

• Rotate the sensitivity dial counterclockwise to delay activation time.
• Make sure the photocell isn’t situated in perpetual shade.
• Check for obstructions like dirt, spiderwebs, etc. blocking the sensor.

Lights turn on and off erratically:

• Clean smudges or debris off the photocell sensor.
• Adjust the sensitivity dial to find the ideal setting.
• Make sure the photocell isn’t near other light sources that could confuse the sensor.

Lights don’t turn off at dawn:

• Turn the sensitivity dial fully counterclockwise to activate later.
• The photocell may need replacement due to aging of components.

With some simple adjustments and troubleshooting, you can usually resolve any issues with Hampton Bay photocells quickly. Overall they are very reliable and long-lasting automatic light controllers.

Estimating the Lifespan of a Hampton Bay Photocell

With proper indoor or covered outdoor installation, a quality Hampton Bay photocell should provide dependable service for many years. The expected lifespan is difficult to estimate exactly, but here are some general photocell longevity guidelines:

• Basic Use – With regular daily use, a Hampton Bay photocell will typically last 5-10 years or more.
• Infrequent Use – For photocells on lights that activate only occasionally, lifespan is often extended to 10-15 years.
• Harsh Conditions – Photocells exposed to extreme weather, temperature swings, etc. may only last 2-7 years before replacement is needed.
• Sun Exposure – Constant direct sun can degrade photocell components quicker, shortening lifespan to 3-7 years.
• Quality – Lower quality generic photocells tend to have a lifespan of only 2-5 years. Genuine Hampton Bay photocells meet higher standards.
• LED bulbs – Using efficient LED light bulbs extends photocell lifespan by producing less internal heat.

With average use, most homeowners find they only need to replace their Hampton Bay photocells once every 7-12 years. The photocell will often outlive the original light fixture itself. But for maximum enjoyment of your automated outdoor lighting, it’s wise to replace photocells proactively once they near 10 years old.

Are Hampton Bay Photocells Energy Efficient?

One great benefit of using a Hampton Bay photocell is that it can make your outdoor lighting system much more energy efficient. By automatically turning lights on only at night when needed, a photocell prevents lights burning all day long when the sun is out.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, outdoor lighting controlled by a photocell uses 50-80% less electricity than lights left on constantly. The exact energy savings depend on hours of daylight in your location and how long your lights normally operate each night.

Additionally, Hampton Bay photocells themselves draw negligible power. The solar cell inside generates enough electricity to operate the unit without drawing current from your home’s wiring. So you can enjoy the convenience of automatic lights with minimal energy impact.

For maximum savings, the Department of Energy recommends using Hampton Bay photocells in conjunction with LED or other high-efficiency light bulbs. This combination gives you beautiful automatic outdoor lighting while reducing your electricity usage and cost!

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Hampton Bay Photocell

If your Hampton Bay photocell stops working or gets damaged after years of faithful service, replacing it is a straightforward DIY project. Just follow these steps:

Turn Off Power

Start by turning off power to the light fixture at the circuit breaker as you did when first installing the photocell.

Unscrew Old Photocell

Unscrew the non-working Hampton Bay photocell counterclockwise and remove it from the light fixture socket.

Inspect Socket

Examine the socket to make sure it is intact, with no cracked ceramic or bent prongs. Replace socket if necessary.

Install New Photocell

Screw in the replacement Hampton Bay photocell unit clockwise into the socket, making sure threads catch properly.

Adjust Dial

Set the new photocell’s sensitivity dial to match your original activation settings.

Restore Power

Turn circuit breaker back on. Test new photocell by blocking sensor to trigger lights on.

Verify Operation

When dusk arrives, verify your new Hampton Bay photocell works correctly, automatically activating the lights.

With just a few minutes and a screwdriver, you can easily replace a worn-out photocell with a brand new one. Enjoy another 5-10 years of reliable automatic lighting!

Using Hampton Bay Photocells with LED Lights

ENERGY SAVING TIP: For maximum efficiency and cost savings, always pair your Hampton Bay photocell with LED light bulbs. Here’s why LEDs are the ideal match:

• Lower Wattage – LED bulbs produce brighter light using much less wattage than incandescents. This puts less strain on your photocell, helping it last longer.
• Cool Operation – Unlike hot incandescent bulbs, LEDs produce very little heat. This allows the photocell components to operate at lower temperatures for extended lifespan.
• Instant On – LEDs illuminate instantly when power is applied. This allows the lights to activate immediately at dusk when triggered by the photocell.
• Dusk/Dawn Match – The light spectrum of LEDs closely matches natural daylight. This helps make the dusk/dawn transition triggered by the photocell more seamless.
• Longer Lifespan – LED bulbs have extremely long 10,000+ hour lifespans. This allows the photocell and LED bulbs to keep performing together for years before any replacement is needed.

By combining cool-running, efficient LED bulbs with a Hampton Bay photocell, you maximize energy savings and minimize replacement needs. I recommend LED lights to all my customers for the best photocell performance!

Are Hampton Bay Photocells Weatherproof?

Hampton Bay makes both indoor and weather-resistant outdoor photocells. Here’s how to tell which type you have:

Indoor Photocells:

• Designed for use in covered fixtures protected from the elements.
• Lower cost plastic housing without seals.
• Typically have wire lead connections instead of a plug.
• Not waterproof – can short out if exposed to moisture.

Outdoor Photocells:

• Built for exterior use with weatherproof housing.
• Rubber gaskets provide watertight seals around base.
• Connect via a plug to keep water out of wiring.
• Housing is UV-resistant plastic or metal for harsh sunlight.
• More rugged internal components resist temperature swings.

Always check package labeling or product descriptions to confirm weather rating for the Hampton Bay photocell you choose. Outdoor photocells are definitely recommended for any application exposed to the elements. The extra protection ensures seasons of reliable automated lighting performance.

Using Hampton Bay Photocells with Motion-Sensor Lights

For enhanced security and convenience, you can combine Hampton Bay photocells with motion-sensor exterior lights. This gives you two automated lighting features in one:

Photocell for Night Operation – The photocell enables the light fixture only after dusk, saving daytime electricity usage.

Motion Sensor for Activation – When movement is detected at night, the motion sensor switches the photocell-activated light on at full brightness for security.

With this innovative combo, your Hampton Bay security light remains off during daylight hours. After dark, the photocell turns the light on in standby mode at reduced brightness. When the motion sensor detects activity, it temporarily overrides the photocell to turn the light up to full bright illumination.

Look for Hampton Bay fixtures like security lights, wall packs, and porch lights that offer the dual benefits of both integrated motion and photocell operation. This extra automation gives peace of mind and ensures lights are on only when needed.

Cost Breakdown of Hampton Bay Photocells

When purchasing a Hampton Bay photocell, price is often a major factor. Here is a quick overview of what to expect:

• Basic Indoor Photocell – $10-$20

The most affordable option. Basic functionality and plastic housing.

• Outdoor Weatherproof Photocell – $15-$35

Sealed construction and rugged internals. Withstands outdoor elements.

• Photocell with Surge Protection – $25-$50

Prevents voltage spikes from damaging photocell. Worth the cost in some climates.

• Photocell with Programmable Timer – $35-$75

Allows custom on/off scheduling in addition to photocell automation. Maximum flexibility.

• Photocell for Low Voltage Lighting – $15-$40

Designed for 12V or 24V landscape lighting systems. Reduces voltage properly.

As you can see, most Hampton Bay photocells cost $20 or less for basic operation. The weatherproofing and advanced features of higher-end models make them a worthwhile investment for extended use and durability.

Reviews of Top Hampton Bay Photocell Models

Don’t just take my word when choosing a Hampton Bay photocell—let’s look at reviews from other real-world users:

Basic Indoor Model

“Does the job for indoor lighting automation. Very easy to install and adjust sensitivity. Can’t beat the price!”

Outdoor Weatherproof Model

“Solid waterproof construction. Photocell performs well even in rainy, humid Florida weather. The seals keep moisture out.”

Photocell with Surge Suppression

“I’ve had photocells zapped in lightning storms before. The built-in surge protector on this one gives added peace of mind.”

Programmable Timer Photocell

“Love the ability to fine tune on/off times based on season, not just rely on photocell. Makes my lighting schedules accurate all year.”

Low Voltage Photocell

“I use this for landscape lighting on a 12V system. It adjusts the voltage properly so my LED lights don’t burn out or flicker.”

As you can see from the reviews above, Hampton Bay makes reliable photocells to handle pretty much any application you need. All the buyers were pleased with the quality and results from their chosen model.

How to Adjust Sensitivity on Hampton Bay Photocells

Hampton Bay photocells have a sensitivity dial built right in for easy adjustment. Turning this dial changes when your lights activate at dusk, and deactivate in the mornings:

Turn Up – Increase sensitivity to turn lights on earlier in the evenings. Good for changing Fall and Winter seasons when it gets dark sooner.

Turn Down – Decrease sensitivity to delay light activation later into night. Helps for Summer when dusk happens later.

Middle Setting – The midpoint setting on the dial provides a balance suitable for year-round use in most regions.

I recommend starting with the midpoint dial setting when you first install your Hampton Bay photocell. Check the light activation time for a few nights and continue adjusting in small increments as needed to match your preferences. It may take a bit of tweaking to find the perfect sensitivity for your location.

Pairing Hampton Bay Photocells with Smart Home Systems

The latest Hampton Bay photocells have options allowing integration with smart home automation systems like SmartThings, Wink, Philips Hue, and more.

Smart Photocell Models:

• Communicate wirelessly via Zigbee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth, etc.
• Can connect photocell to existing smart home hub.
• Let you control and schedule lighting via smartphone app.
• Enable voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
• Integrate motion sensors, door sensors, etc. to trigger lighting scenes.

Smart photocell models provide flexibility beyond standalone operation. Before purchasing, just ensure your particular smart home ecosystem is supported. The Hampton Bay mobile app also offers some basic controls. Convenient lighting automation is right at your fingertips!

Photocell vs. Timer Comparison

Debating a Hampton Bay photocell vs. a programmable timer switch for your lights? Here’s how they compare:

Photocell

• Turns lights on/off based on detected natural light levels.
• Adjusts automatically each day for seasonal changes.
• Requires no manual time adjustments.
• Operates even during power outages (battery backup)

Timer Switch

• Activates lights at pre-set times you manually configure.
• Requires adjustments for seasonal daylight changes.
• Needs resetting if power outage causes clock disruption.
• More flexibility for custom on/off scheduling.

Verdict: Photocells are best for hassle-free automation adjusted to natural daylight. Timers allow more custom scheduling if needed. Using both together gives maximum lighting control convenience!

Using Hampton Bay Photocells for Dusk-to-Dawn Lighting

Hampton Bay photocells are perfect for automating dusk-to-dawn exterior lighting. Here’s how to create a dusk-to-dawn system:

Choose Fixture

Select an outdoor light fixture like a porch light, post light, or flood light. Be sure it’s rated for dusk-to-dawn use.

Install Photocell

Wire or screw in a Hampton Bay photocell so it replaces any existing bulb or socket.

Pick Bulb

Choose a bulb specifically designed for dusk-to-dawn operation, labeled D2D. These can operate for extended hours.

Set Sensitivity

Adjust the Hampton Bay photocell dial so lights turn on shortly after dusk each evening.

Verify Operation

Confirm the photocell keeps the light on all night, only turning off once daylight returns at dawn.

With the right fixture, bulb, and Hampton Bay’s reliable photocells, you’ll enjoy the convenience of perfectly automated dusk-to-dawn lighting night after night.

Warranty Coverage on Hampton Bay Photocells

One of the top reasons I recommend Hampton Bay lighting products is the comprehensive warranty coverage. This allows you to purchase with confidence.

Here is the warranty coverage for genuine Hampton Bay photocells:

• 5 Year Warranty – Hampton Bay photocells are backed by a 5 year limited warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship.
• 30 Day Return Policy – Home Depot allows returns of unopened Hampton Bay products within 30 days of purchase. This gives you time to test photocell performance.
• Labor Coverage – If a replacement Hampton Bay photocell is needed, Home Depot provides free installation labor during the warranty period.
• Replacement Promise – Faulty Hampton Bay photocells are replaced with either new or refurbished units, keeping your lighting automated at no extra parts cost.

Knowing all Hampton Bay photocells are rigorously tested and backed by strong warranty protection gives confidence that you’re purchasing a high-quality product.

In Summary

I hope this comprehensive guide gives you all the information needed to pick out just the right Hampton Bay photocell for your outdoor lighting needs. With their weatherproof construction, long battery life, and adjustable sensitivity options, Hampton Bay photocells are a smart choice. Paired with LED bulbs, they will provide years of reliable automated dusk to dawn lighting. Never manually turn your lights on again!

Hampton Bay has been my trusted brand for attractive, durable outdoor lighting products for over a decade. Their photocells are an integral component for automation and energy savings. Now you can enjoy the same great experience illuminating your own outdoor spaces with Hampton Bay. Just follow this buying guide to select the perfect photocell for your upcoming lighting project. Let me know if you have any other questions!