At face value, solar lights sound like they may be a good idea. They are relatively inexpensive and as long as the sun shines, they may work. But that is where it ends.

Solar Lights May Have Some Advantages, But There Are Many Downsides To Consider As Well

Solar lights are dependent on sunlight to charge their battery power cells. When it’s cloudy or raining, they don’t get the power they need to perform. Because solar lights are used outdoors here in the Carolinas, they will not work up to their potential in shaded areas, so there are limitations on where they can be placed outdoors.

The Problems With Solar Light Batteries And Evening Illumination Performance

The rechargeable batteries in solar lights have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced, which can be costly and inconvenient. More significantly, as solar lights age, so do their batteries, resulting in the performance of the solar lights declining, resulting in shorter illumination times and compromised light levels.

Compared to professionally designed and installed outdoor lighting systems and landscape lighting systems, well, there just isn’t any true comparison. It’s like asking a bicycle reflector to light up your home. Good luck with that.

Solar Lights Have Lower Light Output And Highly Inconsistent Performance

Solar lights produce significantly less brightness compared to traditional LED wired outdoor lighting. They most likely will not be suitable for areas requiring strong illumination for highlighting, safety and security. Solar lights output will vary depending on the amount of sunlight its solar panel receives during the day.

Furthermore, there are weather considerations when using solar lights. Extremely hot or cold temperatures often affect the performance and lifespan of solar lights – and solar lights are less durable compared to wired lights, especially in areas prone to severe weather conditions, such as in the Carolinas.

Are Solar Lights Worth It?

That’s a great question.

Solar outdoor lights might not be worth it if you need consistently high brightness for security, highlighting exterior pathways and other purposes. Also, be cautioned that if you live in an area with frequent cloudy or rainy weather, you will most likely have areas where solar lights won’t perform as you wish they would.

How Long Do Solar Yard Lights Last?

Solar yard lights need to have their rechargeable batteries replaced 1 to 3 years on average. However, in some cases, solar lights will not last the season. We have heard of instances where the homeowner buys them in spring and by late summer the solar lights are no longer working properly.

By comparison, the LED outdoor lights installed by Carolina Landscape Lighting have an illumination lifespan of 15 years or more.

What Is The Downside Of Solar Lights?

Here are the four biggest considerations:

• Solar lights might not be ideal if you require consistent and high-intensity lighting.
• Your area frequently experiences cloudy or rainy weather.
• You have significant shaded areas where solar lights would be placed.
• You need lights that are extremely durable in severe weather conditions, or that can withstand coastal conditions.

Why Don’t My Solar Lights Stay On All Night?

Your solar lights  may be negatively impacted by several issues:

1. Insufficient sunlight
2. Dirty solar panels
3. Old batteries
4. Shorter daylight hours
5. Faulty solar lights circuitry
6. Obstructed solar lights panels
7. Spotty coverage (one light may work, while the others are not).
8. Some solar lights rechargeable batteries like Nickel Cadmium can develop a memory inconsistency, reducing their capacity over time
9. Improper installation where they are not angled correctly and facing the direction that receives the most sunlight
10. Fluctuations in temperature extremes

Which Are Better, LED Or Solar Lights?

If your goal is to have durable, highly dependable outdoor lighting that is automatically controlled every day of the year, your smartest investment will be LED outdoor lights.

The more concise answer is to choose LED outdoor and landscape lights when:

• You need consistent, bright lighting
• You want advanced control options and features
• You have access to an electrical source and can have Carolina Landscape Lighting handle the installation requirements
• You require reliable performance regardless of weather conditions

Will Solar Lights Withstand Our Carolina Coastal Conditions?

That’s another huge issue with solar lights here in the Carolinas.

For starters, salt in the air near the Carolina coast can cause corrosion to solar lights metal parts, including solar panels and light casings. Our professionally handcrafted LED outdoor light fixtures in copper and brass are not similarly impacted and will stand the test of time.

Also, high humidity levels and frequent exposure to moisture can affect the performance and lifespan of solar lights.

In summation, some solar lights can withstand Carolina coastal conditions if you select the right products and take appropriate measures to protect them. If you decide to go that route, start by choosing high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring proper waterproof ratings, and securing the lights against wind and weather.

However, in all honestly, your best purchasing decision is to start with Carolina Landscape Lighting near you for a comprehensive complimentary design consultation for superior nighttime illumination using our state-of-the-art LED lighting.

Here is how to easily connect with us instantly by Phone:

Asheville: 828-333-9772

Charleston: 843-817-9797

Charlotte: 704-877-6911

Columbia: 803-470-1911

Greenville: 864-214-4555

Here is how to easily connect to us by Email:

 

Asheville: asheville@carolina-light.com

Charleston: charleston@carolina-light.com

Charlotte: charlotte@carolina-light.com

Columbia: columbia@carolina-light.com

Greenville: greenville@carolina-light.com