Outdoor LED Solar Lights
Outdoor solar lights illuminate pathways, driveways, and entryways to make a home more secure while deterring crime. Some have motion-sensing functions to conserve energy, while others are controlled by a timer to stay on all night long.
These lights are also kinder to wildlife, as they emit a dimmer glow and don’t disturb nocturnal creatures. They’re also easy to install and look great.
Easy to Install
Most solar light fixtures come with the solar panel attached to a stake, which you can simply push into the ground. No need to worry about digging holes for traditional gas or electric fixtures – or paying for a landscaping team and electrician to do that work for you.
The sun’s energy captures the light fixture during the day and charges its battery. When darkness falls, the lights turn on automatically and provide illumination throughout the night. At sunrise, the process starts again. This convenient automation can be a huge benefit for those who want their outdoor lighting to add an element of safety outdoor post solar lights to a walkway or deter potential thieves, as the lights will turn on and off as needed without the need for manual interaction.
When choosing solar outdoor lighting, look for options that have an IP rating of at least IP44. That means that they’re rated to be dust-tight and protected against water splashes. If you live in an area where rain is common, consider investing in a fixture that has an additional protection level of at least IP56.
When shopping for solar outdoor lighting, also consider the brightness of each fixture and whether it has a motion sensor. This can be particularly helpful in areas where there’s a shed or other outbuilding that might need to be lit but where it would be expensive to run electricity from the house to.
Energy-Efficient
The solar panel in a solar light absorbs sunlight during the day, turning it into energy. This energy powers the LED light bulbs and keeps them illuminated through the night. Because they don’t use wires, solar lights are also much easier to install and maintain than traditional electric fixtures. They don’t require a professional to come out and dig trenches, and they can be removed easily when you move or remodel your property.
The variety of solar lights available means there’s a solution for every home. You can find powerful solar security lights and floodlights that activate with motion sensors, or more subtle options like this set of path lights from Better Homes & Gardens (which is owned by The Spruce’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). These sit flush with the ground, emitting a warm glow that’s ideal for adding ambiance to walkways, patios, and porches.
Some models allow you to control your lights via WiFi, allowing you to change color or pattern settings, or set them to turn on and off at specific times. Other features like a built-in timer help conserve energy and keep your outdoor space lit only for as long as necessary. Be mindful of light pollution when choosing your solar lights, however. You can avoid contributing to this issue by installing lights that only shine downward, and not upward, where they cause damage to wildlife.
Long-Lasting
There are a number of options available for homeowners who want to simplify their exterior lighting and avoid the hassle of wiring. Solar lights can be used to illuminate pathways, accent your home or garden, add security, and provide a cozy glow without ratcheting up the electricity bill. Depending on your needs, you might consider a motion-activated solar light, which only turns on when it detects movement or a timer-controlled option that allows you to specify exactly how long you want your lights to be lit for.
Other factors to keep in mind include the brightness of your chosen solar lights, which is measured in lumens; you’ll want to find a set that has enough lumens for ambient lighting in your space. Some models also come with multiple modes, which can change the color or create different patterns.
Madison Yauger is a senior commerce writer who has tested hundreds of lifestyle products. She evaluates products based on their set-up, features, design, brightness, and durability. Outdoor Post Solar Light Manufacturer She has a background in news and lifestyle journalism and uses a wide network of experts to help her write the best possible product reviews. Madison is a fan of products that make it easier for consumers to accomplish tasks. Whether it’s a new gadget, skincare, or home furnishings, she wants to find the most useful, effective and innovative items available.
Environmentally Friendly
Using solar lighting is an environmentally friendly choice because it doesn’t require connecting to your home electricity. Instead, it uses a rechargeable battery that stores energy from the sun during the day. When the sun goes down, it turns on and illuminates your space. It then shuts off at dawn. This means you don’t have to worry about extension cords being left out where children and pets can trip over them or if your home experiences frequent power outages.
In addition, solar lights are much kinder to wildlife than mains-powered lighting. Because they tend to emit a dimmer glow, they’re less likely to disturb nocturnal animals or interfere with their habitats. Likewise, they’re also more likely to be switched off when it’s not necessary – and this helps to reduce energy consumption.
There are a wide variety of solar outdoor lights to choose from, including wall-mounted lanterns and spotlights, as well as dainty string lights that can be used to light up your garden or patio. We looked at how easy it was to set up each fixture, as well as its brightness, IP rating, cable length and additional features like a remote control or different lighting modes. We also evaluated the durability and quality of the fixture and checked for whether it had a warranty. We also considered the cost, whether it was easy to store over winter and whether it required any extra tools.
