How Long Do Solar Lights Last?

For many homeowners, solar-powered lighting offers a pleasant glow that enhances their outdoor spaces while being easy on the environment. Outdoor solar technology is a game-changer, providing reliable brightness and a warm, inviting ambience perfect for patios, gardens, lawns and paths. However, we already know what to expect with electricity, but how long do solar-powered lights last? Our guide answers that question and provides tips to heighten your experience.

What Is a Solar-Powered Light?

Solar-powered lights are lighting fixtures that use the sun's energy to emit light. They have solar panels, which may be mounted on top of the fixture or come as a separate unit. They harness sunlight throughout the day, converting it into energy to power the lights at night. 

Solar lights are essentially maintenance-free and operate automatically due to the combination of PV cell or solar cell technology and light detection sensors. 

How Long Do Solar Lights Last?

Solar-powered lights can last several years, but the total service life depends on various factors, such as:

Components

Solar lights have several key parts, including rechargeable batteries, solar panels, light sensors and LED bulbs. These parts work together to produce light. However, each component has a different life span, which means that some may need replacing sooner than others.

For example, solar panels can last 30 to 35 years on average, while LED bulbs typically need replacement every one to three years. How long rechargeable batteries last also varies. Some types, like nickel-cadmium batteries, may last about 10 years, while sealed lead-acid batteries can last five years. Remember that environmental conditions and how often you use the lights will also affect battery life service.

Product Quality

Depending on where you buy your solar fixture, it may or may not last long because quality differs among providers. You want to source your outdoor solar systems from reliable providers who prioritize quality and innovation to enhance their products. A reputable company like Brilliance Outdoor is known to deliver top-tier lighting solutions that enhance beauty and functionality by blending superior quality with design excellence.

Usage

How often you use your solar lights affects their life span. Components like bulbs and batteries only work for a certain number of cycles, so the more you use your fixtures, the sooner they will need to be upgraded. Outdoor solar lights are durable, built to withstand the weather and brighten up your outdoor space for years. However, like anything exposed to the elements, they wear out over time and need replacements.

Proper maintenance also matters. With a little care and attention, you can get the most out of your solar lights and help them reach their full potential. 

How Long Do Solar Lights Last at Night?

We've covered the overall life span. But how long do outdoor solar lights last in one night? Depending on the type, most high-end solar lights can run for up to 10 hours. How well your solar light systems perform is influenced by the amount of sunshine the panels soak up. By placing your fixtures in areas exposed to plenty of sunlight, the batteries will fully charge, filling your evenings with enough radiance and bringing your outdoor space to life.

How to Make Solar Lights Last Longer

Aside from solar panel placement, there are other things you can do to make your light fixture last longer, even through the night:

Clean the solar panels: Over time, dust and debris collect on solar panels from weather exposure, reducing the panel's ability to soak up sunlight. Whether you have a stand-alone solar panel or one mounted on a lighting fixture, wiping them clean regularly removes the layers of dirt that prevent energy absorption.

Select LED fixtures: Solar light fixtures come with various types of bulbs. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent bulbs.

Monitor the batteries: Monitoring your solar light batteries keeps you updated on their performance. You can easily identify faulty batteries because the lights won't last as long, even after a full charge. Replace ineffective batteries to ensure reliable performance and opt for a bigger battery capacity for more hours of lighting.

Protect your solar unit: Like other electronic devices, solar-powered units are susceptible to damage. Handle your lights with care and position them in an area with a low possibility of knocks and bumps.

Prioritize advanced technology: Solar technology is always improving — choose fixtures with the latest features for improved performance and longer-lasting brightness.

Troubleshooting Tips for Solar-Powered Lights

Solar-powered lights are durable and can last a long time without problems. However, you may still run into some issues that require troubleshooting:

Lights failing to turn on: If your light suddenly goes out at night or fails to turn on entirely, check the solar panel wires to make sure they're connected to the battery correctly. For fixtures with built-in panels, check the panels for signs of damage or blockage, which may prevent charging. You also want to check the light sensor to ensure it works and can detect darkness.

Dimness or reduced hours of light: If your lights keep dimming or don't stay on for long at night, it might mean the bulbs are not working well or the battery is low. Confirm that the bulb is in good condition and expose your unit to direct sunlight so the battery can fully charge. If that doesn't work, your battery may be weak and need a replacement.

Lights turning on during daylight: Solar lights are designed to turn off when they detect light and on when they detect darkness. If your unit doesn't turn off in the morning or randomly flicks on during the day, there could be a problem with the sensor. Try cleaning the panels, inspecting and adjusting the sensor as needed, then try again.

Browse Solar-Powered Lights at Brilliance Outdoor

Solar lights are a convenient and eco-friendly way to illuminate your outdoor space. They are durable and don't require much maintenance to keep them in good condition. With the right solar-powered fixture, you can enjoy long hours of warm and cozy ambience at night and years of usage. While different factors determine the life span of your solar light, quality is key to reliable performance and prolonged use.

Brilliance Outdoor offers innovative, eco-friendly, luxury lighting solutions that meet high industry standards and outdoor aesthetics. We carry a range of solar options, including floor and table lamps, pathway fixtures and directional lights for landscaping design. Shop our reliable solar products today to start enhancing your outdoor spaces!

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