Are you considering using solar power for your exterior lights? Solar lighting for outdoors can be an excellent option for homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint. In the US there are more than 2 million solar PV installations.
Now you have found the perfect solar lighting system but you are unsure how to install it. Solar lights are easy to install. Read on to learn how to install solar lighting for outdoors.
What Are Solar Garden Lights?
Solar garden lights are powered by the sun using small photovoltaic cells on solar panels. The sun charges the solar panels and the energy is stored in a battery. When the sun goes down, a photoresistor registers the darkness and turns the light on.
Garden lights are perfect for highlighting landscaping features or illuminating walkways. You can choose from a variety of garden lights that provide a decorative accent, security, and more.
Choose a Location
Before you start setting up your solar lighting system, you should choose a location. The location should get full sun exposure throughout the entire day. Make sure you avoid areas that are overshadowed by trees or buildings.
You can consult a solar installation website for more information about choosing the perfect location.
Garden lights that are lighting a path or walkway should be placed close together. This will ensure the path is illuminated and create a beautiful garden feature. Avoid placing your garden lights anywhere that could obstruct cars, mowers, or pedestrians.
Prepare the Soil and Lights
Sometimes the soil can be hard and compacted where you want to insert your garden lights. Soften the soil by watering it. You can then loosen the ground with a shovel or garden fork.
Preparing the soil in advance will prevent any damage to your solar lights. Each solar panel will need at least 12 hours of sunlight before you install them. Charge them in direct sunlight before you install them.
Installing Your Solar Lighting System
Once you have found a location for your solar lights you can install them. If your garden lights have a stake then you can push them straight into the ground. Push them into the soil gently to avoid breaking the stake.
Make sure that wall-mounted exterior lights will receive maximum sunlight by choosing the optimum solar panel orientation. You may need to dig a trench for your cables if your solar lights are attached this way. Design a placement plan for your solar lights before you start digging.
Install Solar Lighting for Outdoors
Installing solar lighting for outdoors doesn’t have to give you a headache. With the right preparation, you can enjoy solar garden lights that are inexpensive and convenient. Transform your outdoor space with a solar lighting system that will save you money and light up your yard.
Did you find this article useful? Read more like this on our blog!