EASY Motion Activated Closet Lighting - NO PROGRAMMING! NO HARD WIRING!

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In this video I'll show you how easy it is to add motion activated lighting to a dark closet. NO hard wiring and NO programming!
The best way to help support my channel is to like, comment, make sure your subscribed and share my videos with as many people as you can. The other way is to use my links above as I get a small % at no extra cost to you if you buy something. Thank you all for the support!

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

🚨 UPDATED DAILY! BEST DEALS on AMAZON: bit.ly/48FGnUv ☑Check out my sponsor to begin your FREE 14 day trial to Aura: aura.com/chrismaher Aqara LED Lights: amzn.to/3uuQCMI Aqara Hub: amzn.to/3sKONuQ Aqara Motion Sensor: amzn.to/3TbVUqs Aqara LED Strip Extensions: amzn.to/47L4z7M Modular Closets Main Page: amzn.to/3t1cvTp Shelf Unit: amzn.to/3GmSLN8 Shelf Unit with Drawers and Rack: amzn.to/3GmSNVg Corner Diffuser Channel: amzn.to/3GawZMJ Flat Diffuser Channel (for ceiling): amzn.to/3uEagpu Extension Cord: amzn.to/3MTemAI Cord Concealer Track: amzn.to/3GaxpCN Decorative Box: amzn.to/40UN6Ye Stud Finder: amzn.to/3sNnCPM The best way to help support my channel is to like, comment, make sure your subscribed and share my videos with as many people as you can. The other way is to use my links above as I get a small % at no extra cost to you if you buy something. Thank you all for the support!

[@Zeaiclies]

$1,400 to add an outlet is insane. You can do it yourself for $100.

[@R0cketRed]

That looks so good! Electrical guy here, my quote is make a video on it your attic access is right in that closet, drill a hole above the closest outlet from the attic down through the top plates into the wall cavity, then drill a hole in the top of the outlet box, then run a fish line from the attic to the hole in the top of the box, this will be the hardest part getting it through the hole but no more then 45 mins, then pull 14/2 up into the attic and down into any wall in your closet you'll have to repeat that step of drilling the top plate from the attic into your closet above where u want the box, then get an old work box cut a hole in the wall, feed wire through top hole to outlet hole, pull wire through box, install box and receptacle and connect other end and done, about 2hrs for experienced person with a helper and 3-4 without, for no experience about 8hrs but go slow n you'll be fine

[@darkwafflez_6190]

15:50 You can probably implement a shortcut where you say "Show me shoes/shirts/jewelry" and it will highlight a portion of the shelving with the LED strips

[@enitalp]

You can check, as you another room on the other side of the closet. Check if a plug is on that shared wall; it would be easy to have a plug in your closet.

[@Zeaiclies]

They sell a kit at the Home store and Lowes Romex splice kit, buy an outlet box and outlet and drywall knife if you want and done.

[@Mobee12]

Every time he walks up the closet, it reminds me of a superhero ready to suit up. I love it!

[@dd_zzero6827]

I really like that you kept it open. I did the same with two of our closets in our house and it just looks great. I really don't think too many people do it this way.

[@ListenN777]

Best video I’ve seen in a long time! Discussed many details and issues I’ve come across like no power in closet etc. GREAT video!

[@lucaslegz]

Thank you for this video. I love that you used 3m and double sided tape. Thank you!!

[@bmiller1958]

I always look forward to your creative content. Thank you!

[@bdlii]

Well done. Especially the moulding on right side with double sided tape. Also digging your Close Encounters of the Third Kind'esque thumbnail :p

[@andyrealg6048]

Thank you for your explanation and for doing this...appreciate all your advice and hard work👊🏼💯

[@ronbrumble6493]

Fantastic transformation. I have a light in my closet, but I think I like this option better. It's a much more uniform light and hit's all the corners really well.

[@southwest7977]

I had a similar issue but solved it in a different but similar way. I used HomeKit door sensors(Aqara), HomeKit plug(Vocolink) and cheap rope led. When I open a door, the light comes on by triggering the plug. Close the door, the light goes off. I think the door sensors trigger more reliably than motion in this scenario. Only issue is if I open both doors, the lights go off when I shut the first door. Minor issue, rarely a problem (first world problem). Your lighting looks better but I got good enough results for $50. Great improvement in my closet. Oh. I ran power from a few feet outside of the closet. Runs behind a piece of furniture then under the trim for the closet door. Unnoticeable mostly. Good video. I really like your style and work.

[@raphaelsanchez4797]

You are very talented and patient. I came across one of your videos by pure happenstance and I immediately subscribed. I am quite judicious as to which channels I subscribe to, but I know yours will be one I will be watching for some home projects that will add convenience and style to my home. Thank you.

[@TEverlith]

Well done! Thanks for all the great videos.

[@TonyPham-Creations]

Love all the ideas & projects!!

[@jonathanschmidt7325]

You're stuff is great man. Perfectly paced and super informative. It's time to learn how to run some Romex though. It's not hard to add an outlet and you could piggyback off that light switch.

[@bigrob029]

I love how you leveraged the existing closet project to get instant wife approval AND allow the LEDs to spread even further into the house. well done!

[@Jrod32391]

Awesome turn out Chris. 🔥🔥

[@RomboutVersluijs]

You put the lady to work! great job for both of you

[@YonkoThanos]

As always... just by the thumbnail I know I will leave a like in the video! Thanks Chris!!

[@tdtone2]

Awesome job!!!

[@c0pyimitati0n]

12:55 at that point i probably would have just installed a new outlet in the closet, but i do love your wire hiding skills. I'm big on wire management.

[@defconone1498]

You make it look so simple... and it probably is :). Love your videos and find them very motivational. I'm actually considering doing my stair case as per your previous video. Thanks for including the links to all the products you use - that's very helpful. PS.. I don't show your videos to the wife because she'll have me redo ALL the closets! So lets keep this our secret!

[@shantanumathur1059]

Awesome job

[@c0pyimitati0n]

Have you seen the door push button switches? The install inside the door jamb and turn the light on when the door opens and off when it closes. It's basically a momentary switch. Then you don't have to upgrade your lights, just add a simple switch and you've got automatic lighting.

[@marcohundINV]

Nice! Was just thinking of building one and here comes a video from ym favourite DIY LED KZbinr around

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching and appreciate the support!!

[@robp9129]

Another great walk-through Chris. Greetings from the UK 😉👍

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment! Appreciate the love!!

[@michaelglenn4014]

King of LEDs

[@jumper233]

Where do you live that someone is quoting you $1400 to add an outlet? Where I am;California, it’s a couple hundred bucks. 1400 is insane.

[@Zeaiclies]

Right. You can do it yourself for $100. I would have done two with USB for $300

[@moisestorres9618]

That’s what I was gonna say. Get a quote from a different guy. 1400 is a ripoff…

[@Benmeglei1]

He’s on the dark side of the moon.

[@jdfutura]

Tradesmen usually give you these absurd quotes when the work you’re requesting is not worth their time. e.g adding a single power outlet. They already have a steady stream of work coming in and know they can book a larger job. It’s kind of their way of turning down your job because they think they can book a better paying job, however, it leaves the possibility open for someone who is rich/desperate enough to get the work done that they don’t mind getting ripped off.

[@nataliebuckey6368]

I love this! Thank you for the great tutorial! I tried to order the items from your list, but the Motion Sensor is not available. Do you know of another sensor that will work with the Aqara Hub?

[@strykher]

Dude, I was here about the closet lights, but learned more than just putting lights in the closet. LOL Great vid.

[@natashameadows4587]

Well done… again!

[@MichaelLamerique]

That is a fantastic change.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@araz1977]

Love it... just love it...

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment! Glad you liked the video!

[@RomboutVersluijs]

Dang, this looks like a legit product!

[@fearthesmeag]

Another option is Home Assistant + Agara sensors to activate LED and/or Philips bulbs. Works well!

[@beemerrobbie]

Would you put a single short strip along the underside of the modules? For illuminating what's stored

[@snowboarderrx]

I did something similar but ran channel and strip to every shelf to illuminate inside the cabinet

[@PierreLeroy76620]

I did a similare setup but i needed to put the sensor a bit higher because sometimes my head was in the "blind spot" of the sensor

[@buckko]

Hello Mr Chris Maher, I've been watching your videos for years now, I love the content. I'll keep it short and simple. If I want to do a 50ft LED strip around the top boarders of my room, with 100led for smooth diffusion and one power injection point. What would you recommend? Which LEDs Which diffusers Which power supply As well as anything else you recommend?

[@lisamw101]

Awesome idea .. love your tutorials vids they really are easy to follow thank you - BUT …. Can this be done without that (smart) lighting effect?

[@cheekster777]

Thanks Chris.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks as always buddy!

[@bradvuong]

Can you please link to the double stick tape that you used to stick the molding to the edge of the closet?

[@jim9520]

Great video.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@dkfitnerd1375]

Nice project idea, I may do something similar. RIP to that attic access though lol. Also, you need electrician friends. 1300 for adding a receptacle is a bit much.

[@DennisWarner]

Just curious do you plan on putting the doors back on? And are you not playing with WLED that much anymore?

[@1987RaPsCaLLioN]

Can I ask what you set your Aqara sensor illuminate detection interval to? Mine is set to 30 seconds (default, I think) and it’s never detected illuminance until I changed to 10 seconds just now which made me curious about yours.

[@AndNowThis..]

That’s cool.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks for watching! Glad you liked the project!

[@danbartlett9963]

Jesus Christ. That’s so awesome. Amazing

[@pjreagan992]

Love the video! Any thoughts on a replacement Motion Sensor since the one you linked hasn't been available for several months? Im looking to mirror your setup. Thank you!

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! I just saw that they are now back in stock! amzn.to/3TbVUqs

[@victorvek5227]

Hey Chris, I noticed you went with the shallower v1SW channel instead of your favored, spotless (and larger) v101 channel. Would you say the narrower channel would be fine for a cabinet’s toe-kick application? I love the neon glow of the v101 for the Govee m1 strips but they’re just huge (and expensive). Please advise, thank you in advance!

[@Icessassin]

are you actively going to be seeing the channel? If not then the hotspots probably are not an issue compared to if it was flat channel just below your crown moulding like every teenager does.

[@gtechyoghurt]

nice vid

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@adamalmog8987]

I want to do the same but with a switch with three options how can I do it?

[@azaeldrm]

How long can these Aqara lights go?

[@T0astedR0asted]

Does this need wifi to work? Thinking about this for a garage closet, but currently located in a rural area with poor/no wifi

[@homeboi808]

15:50, how’d you get the LED segments to basically perfectly lineup with the individual shelving unit boxes?

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! I just have the 1 led strip (the first one I installed that went all the way around) on doing a rainbow effect and that's just the way the boxes look like when the light hits them. I didn't do anything special.

[@Happy2bAmerican]

Hi Chris, love ur videos, will this motion detector work with those lights BTF-LIGHTING FCOB COB LED Strip Flexible High Density Uniform Light 14W/m 16.4FT DC12V Natural White 4000K CRI 90+ 10mm Width Dimma ? Thanks so much!!

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks! They may be able to work with some type of home assistant integration but thats a little over my head unfortunately. But having the wireless motion detector is what makes projects like this so easy since you dont have all the extra cords to hide and deal with.

[@currentlylive_ec5768]

Not sure where you’re located or what the situation is but that quote to add an outlet is literally outrageous. I probably could do it in less than 2 hours and for around $200 🤣🤣

[@shakestheclone1995]

Awesome. Hey, if I wanted to light a room, not just for ambiance, but also have a bright “overhead lighting” (channels along crown molding), would the BTF-LIGHTING WS2812B be a good strip to use? Bright enough to read a book under? I’m thinking of running a V-shape channel around the entire room.

[@mnc1009]

Yes, they are very bright for 5v. Only difference I would say is that if you're running a longer wire. Use a power source that has more amperage, not voltage. This is essentially more volume pushed, and not how fast it's being pushed. In short terms, you're able to push your lights further

[@shakestheclone1995]

@@mnc1009 Excellent. Many Thanks!

[@mattwilson9293]

​@@shakestheclone1995 Look at the ws2815. They're 12v and you can run them MUCH longer without noticeable voltage drop.

[@shakestheclone1995]

@@mattwilson9293 thanks Matt!

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Looks like some awesome people beat me to responding! If by bright you want a bright white then I would go with one of their products that have a dedicated white led since the white color on the ws2812b's are not the best. The sk6812 has a dedicated white but they are 5v so power injection would be needed at some point. Lots of options. I hope to do a video at some point down the road going over how to wire up maybe like a 100 to 150 foot run!

[@omarguerra1838]

Hey chris, I Uicab question. How is the sihoo chair you bought holding up? Would you still call it a great investment?

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching! I'm sitting on it right now and its still holding up great. No regrets!

[@tonyjoffre2909]

This comment isn't really geared towards this one video just question I had. I don't want to use multiple apps for multiple lights so what would you recommend. I've seen you use Govee, Aqara and and ESP using Domestic Automation? Is there a one fits all what are pros and cons for each in your opinion? Finally big question how does you wife interact with the lights is it talking to a smart assistant or through an app?

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching and great question! There is really no good answer. They all serve a different purpose and all have advantages. My wife will only use anything if there is a button or switch associated with it or if its motion activated. She will not pull out a phone and use an app and she will not use anything voice related. But she absolutely loves this closet project (motion activated), the staircase lighting project (motion activated) and the undercabinet lighting video (dimmer dial) I did. I think it all boils down to how tech savvy someone is. You could probably do all the projects I've done using esp/wled/domestic automation but it does require a little bit more work to get everything set up with sensors, buttons etc. Govee is great for anyone that wants a plug and play option and govee is incredible with the sheer amount of product they offer so that you can go all out if thats what you want. Aqara has been super easy to use in terms of getting things hooked up to work with motion and is about as plug and play as you can get. But Govee and Aqara are not going to work for extremely custom type projects where a lot of cutting/ splicing is needed or higher pixel density is required from what is available with other companies. Lol sorry for the long reply and its still not a definitive answer but thats what was rolling around in my head.

[@bespey]

What about using 5v leds and a rechargeable power bank or two? Bet you would only have to charge them up 4 or 5 times a year depending on the size

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

That's a really good idea! I'm hoping to do some videos in the future going over making portable projects and that would be a great time to test out power banks. Definitely putting it on my project to do list!

[@texansforever6782]

does aquara, work with matter and integrate with google home or apple home apps?

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

A lot of their products do! Here is a video that has some information. Shane's channel is awesome!

[@sriotti]

Are these muzata diffusers spotless for the 60 leds / m?

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching! The diffuser channels I use in this video are not spotless. I really only used them for the aluminum profile and didn't even bother putting the diffuser cover on. Here are a couple videos I made going over the 2 best spotless diffuser channels that muzata sells that perfectly diffuse leds strips that have 60/leds per meter or more: Spotless regular diffuser: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4SuoJJ-mbCJj6Msi=98LSsD8K6wljzbY6 Spotless corner diffuser: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZXclHyentF-m8U

[@estherstephens1858]

It looks awesome. I’m just not sure I like the idea of only one screw in stud and another in drywall.

[@WYWCHANNEL]

star ceiling with led strip how do you think about this idea ???

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching! Love the idea and its something that's on my long list of projects I would like to eventually get to! Thanks!

[@B-RaDD]

Algo

[@abhinandanyadav4914]

hey

[@RobSnow-ui4sz]

Where are the lights plugged in?

[@MrDevianceh]

I feel like you should've filled the hole before applying the patch. Now that part is only milimeters thick and you will forget and could try to drive a nail/screw through it at some point.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks for watching! Yeah I certainly could have done that since the hole was super tiny!

[@ltaylor2799]

😬 never put joint compound over exposed drywall paper, it will bubble later. there’s lot of sealants you can apply first (brush, spray on etc). love the lighting ideas though

[@davidstoddard1511]

If you get 12v strip and a motion detector with a little wiring, you won't need an app. It will be a lot cheaper too.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment! Definitely a lot of different ways you could go about doing this! I went for the easiest possible rout with no wiring required but maybe at some point down the road I can do another closet trying out a more complex method!

[@jkhee]

Take a shot everytime Chris says profile.

[@alpha_pixel_]

Why motion. Just a reed switch does everything. Or simply a push to off switch.

[@ChrisMaherDIY]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment! Definitely different ways you could incorporate how to get the lights to turn on.

[@RomboutVersluijs]

1400 to add a wall socket, what are those for BS prices?

[@MrMarco7ify]

I think you could of gone with a simpler motion sensor for the closet

[@michaelhinchey]

Fyi. You didnt need that patch for that small hole. Just spackle would have been fine.

[@smoggydrones5664]

Great install but the electrics suck. Think you need to learn basic electrics. Love the lighting effects

[@oldreprobate2748]

Let's talk about over kill.

[@vennie951]

Love the network name: Jesus loves you. Amen, brother!

[@BrianABowlin]

This is a good video, but I think you'll find that the cool white color is far too bright and sterile. I would suggest adjusting it to 3500-4000K which is a much warmer, more natural light. I like the motion sensor trigger, except for the fact that it's battery operated. It WILL eventually fail. For me the internet connected hub and wireless connected light strips are unnecessary complications that will also cause you problems in the future. It's cool don't get me wrong, but you'd be much better off hardwiring everything in. My goal is to never touch it again, or to worry about what I'd do when I sell my house.

[@DK-vx5co]

Drop cloth. Always.

[@rajshekhardas4997]

Without wifi it's doesn't work

[@noelwhyte9834]

$1400!!!?!?! Damn I charge $150

[@Phil-D83]

Rip out the carpet

[@Iegend17]

1400 to add an outlet ? Lolllll bro what

[@bulufish8208]

No disrespect but my wife just would put her shoes in that size closet

[@SpicedRumFLHXSE]

No programming??? He clearly had to program a hub, and the lights, and the motion sensor. How’s that no programming???

[@tedev]

you really need to start paying more attention to your work. i know this was a quick project and that it is a closet.... but come on! do some angles to the profiles.... use corner led joins.... you have them!

[@jordaynerjr]

The fact that you come in this makes me feel like you haven't seen his work

[@jordaynerjr]

And on top of that it's in a closet where hardly anybody will see the light

[@mattwilson9293]

There's literally no point to do any more than what he did. There's zero benefit to using a corner joint/diffuser in this situation. You need to do better if you're gonna comment.

[@dustinmaherfitness]

Having a bad day?

[@Abester1252]

I’m happy he didn’t, makes the job so much more realistic for other beginners to not be scared of. No point doing all that just for the camera.

[@dickmesserly4331]

Hopefully this doesn't get burried but was wondering if there is a way to do this with a smartthings compatible door contact sensor? My daughter has some french doors on her closet and would like to setup something similar with that. I was thinking of doing the wled route with the lights but on when the doors are open and off when closed?

[@samsun01]

With the crap you're wearing, you don't really need a "cool closet".

[@RomboutVersluijs]

1400 to add a wall socket, what are those for BS prices?