Solar lights are a sure way to reduce your electricity bill, whether they’re solar garden lights, patio spotlights, or streetlights. But what happens when those lights do not shine bright the way they used to? Thankfully, there are only a handful of causes for solar light to grow dim or go out, and in most cases, it’s not hard to make lights brighter.
To determine the problem, first, think about how solar lights work. The solar cell changes sunshine into electricity. A flow of charged particles makes its way to the battery and recharges. A sensor detects whether it’s dark outside and turns on the light when it is.
Dying Batteries
The first step is checking the batteries. Even though the recharging is done by the sun, batteries power solar lights while they’re shining. The most common reason for dimming solar lights is that the rechargeable batteries are dying. If the battery is low, it’s important to remove the battery right away. A defunct battery can erode, leak acid, and damage electrical components.
When you replace the battery, be sure to remove the pull tab on the new battery, or it will not work.
Lack of Sunlight
Most solar lights need about six hours of sunlight during the day to recharge. The exact amount of time depends on the intensity of the sun, the efficiency of the solar panel and the battery. If the unit does not get enough light, illumination will not last as long as it should when it gets dark. If you have trees, a building, or something else that prevents sunlight from reaching the solar cell for much of the day, you may have to move it. A solar lamp does not have to be in direct sunlight all day long, but it’s important to let light reach it during most of the daylight hours.
Dirty Panels
If there’s dust and debris on the panels, they simply can not absorb as much light as they should. If the buildup is too severe, the batteries may not change at all. Even a thin layer of dust, however, limits how much sunlight gets through to do the recharging.
A cleaned light panel means an effective light. You can use mild soapy water to remove dirt and make sure the solar panel is clean. Be sure to rinse well and squeeze off any remaining water.
Clouded Plastic
Some solar lights have a plastic housing or protector covering the solar cell. Over time exposure to outdoor conditions and UV damage from sunlight make it clouded, limiting the sunlight that reaches the cell and recharges the battery.
Sometimes this protector is replaceable. If it’s not, you may be able to remove a thin layer of this plastic with a fine-grit sandpaper. Wash the plastic before sanding. Keep the sandpaper and plastic wet while you’re sanding, then wash and dry the surface.
Ensuring Longevity
To ensure the longevity & optimal performance of your solar lights, regular maintenance is key. Beyond the immediate fixes for dimming lights, such as battery replacement or cleaning dirty panels, also consider the environmental impact of your lighting choices. Opting for solar lights is a step towards sustainable living, but maximizing their efficiency through proper placement, regular cleaning, and timely maintenance further reduces your carbon footprint as well. Additionally, by choosing high-quality, durable solar lights and responsibly recycling old batteries, you contribute to a cycle of sustainability that benefits not just your immediate environment but the planet as a whole. Remember, the care you invest in your solar lighting solutions reflects your commitment to environmental stewardship & sustainable living.
Solar Panel Maintenance
Cleaning and Inspection
Regular maintenance of your solar panels is crucial to ensure they perform at their best. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the surface, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight and generate electricity efficiently. Here are some practical tips for keeping your solar panels in top condition:
- Clean the Panels: Use mild soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the panels.
- Inspect for Damage: Regularly check the panels for any signs of damage, such as cracks or broken glass. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further deterioration.
- Check the Mounting System: Ensure that the panels’ mounting system is secure and level. A stable setup maximizes sunlight exposure and efficiency.
- Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable cleaning and inspecting the panels yourself, consider hiring a professional. They have the expertise to perform thorough maintenance and spot potential issues early.
By keeping your solar panels clean and well-maintained, you can ensure they continue to provide reliable electricity for your solar lights, maximizing their efficiency and lifespan.
LED Bulb Quality and Lifespan
Factors Affecting LED Bulb Performance
The performance and lifespan of LED bulbs are critical to the overall effectiveness of your solar lights. Several factors can influence how well these bulbs perform:
- Quality of LED Chips: Poor quality LED light chips can lead to faster light attenuation and reduced brightness. Investing in high-quality chips ensures better performance.
- Heat Dissipation: Inadequate heat dissipation can cause the bulbs to overheat, leading to faster light attenuation. Look for bulbs with good heat dissipation features.
- Driving Current and Voltage: Driving LED lights with constant current or voltage above the rated value can speed up light attenuation. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid this issue.
- UV Exposure: Ultraviolet rays can degrade the fluorescent powder in LED bulbs, reducing their luminous efficiency. Ensure your bulbs are designed to withstand UV exposure.
- High Driving Current: Using a driving current above the rated value can cause light attenuation. Stick to the recommended current levels to maintain bulb performance.
To ensure your LED bulbs perform optimally and last longer, choose high-quality bulbs with good heat dissipation, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and regularly inspect and replace them as needed. This will help maintain the brightness and efficiency of your solar lights, ensuring reliable outdoor lighting.
Olympia Solar Area Lights
Solar power lights are not just a novelty to light up sidewalks and gardens. They’re capable of doing serious work for businesses and municipalities as streetlights. They offer significant advantages over traditional street lamps. The old-style lights cost more to operate, generate more heat, have greater maintenance costs, and are more toxic.
As the world goes greener, solar LED light fixtures will continue to replace the old-fashioned variety. Olympia Lighting is leading the way in solar illumination. We’ve been producing these street lamps for a while, and recently we’ve improved them aesthetically. Solar lamps used to be bulky with large solar cells, but recent models are sleek and attractive. They’re programmable, have dusk-to-dawn sensors, and come in strengths up to 8,000 Lumens.
Contact Olympia Lighting to learn what these premium quality fixtures can do for you.
