Here’s How to Light Up Your Yard & Garden with Solar Lights

Types of Solar Lights

Solar lights are available for virtually every area of your outdoor space. The most common options include lights for gardens, landscaping, decks and gazebos. Here are some bright ideas to consider.

Buying Considerations

Solar-powered outdoor lights are an energy efficient, useful and stylish solution for many outdoor spaces. Here are three factors to consider when shopping for this type of outdoor lighting.

Location

Solar lights have photovoltaic panels that collect solar energy, converting it to electrical energy, which is stored in a battery for later use. It takes approximately 6+ hours of daily direct sunlight for a full charge. This limits potential installation locations — shady homes may not qualify.

DIYability

Because solar lights require no electrical wiring or buried cables, installing them is typically an easy beginner-friendly DIY project. Solar lanterns and lamps can be placed where you want them, while even the most “complicated” wall mounts can be tackled with basic tools.

Cost Savings

If you’re unsure about purchasing solar versus low-voltage outdoor lights, consider that solar lights use zero electricity to operate. This will reduce your energy bill and your energy footprint. Bonus: When used properly, solar lights can last up to 15 years!

Solar Light Features

While some solar light product features are near-universal, others may be unique to specific products. When shopping, look for these useful solar light features, which can help make your outdoor space shine.

Brightness

Solar lights are measured in lumens and are usually offered in 1-30 lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the bulb. Tailor brightness to need, whether that’s illuminating a task area or creating ambience.

Waterproof Construction

All outdoor solar lights are waterproof and can be used in rain or snow. This ensures you can buy outdoor-rated solar lights with confidence, but you should never use indoor lights outdoors.

On/Off Switch

Outdoor solar lights have built-in light sensors that automatically turn the units on at dusk and off during daytime. Some models also have an on/off switch. The “on” setting defaults operation to the light sensor, while the “off” setting ensures manual control.

Multi-Direction Capability

Some solar lights can be angled to absorb shifting sunlight and direct light to specific areas. While this increases their utility, buyers should be aware that this design feature is unlikely to overcome the solar-power limitations of a shady yard.

Streamlined Design

If having a sleek, streamlined lighting system is important to you, solar lights are a better bet than hardwired lights. Because they lack cords and wires, they offer a wider variety of minimalist and compact designs.

Portability

Some solar lights are fixed in location (think fence or post cap lights), but others — such as garden stakes, lamps and lanterns — are highly moveable. This is a boon to people with part-shade yards. Move the lights into direct sun during the day, then put them into your desired spots after dark.