How Do Solar-Powered LED Lights Work?

Solar LED Lighting Explained

Lighting fixtures, including LEDs that run on solar power, utilise the photovoltaic effect to produce light. They are equipped with photovoltaic (PV) cells or panels, which absorb and convert sunlight into direct electric current.

A solar panel or PV cell comprises several layers of crystalline silicon and chemicals that produce positively charged spaces and negatively charged electrons. When the sun’s rays pass through a PV cell, they “excite” the negatively charged electrons, causing them to move into the positively charged spaces. The electrons are then converted into electricity, which passes through wires connecting the solar panels to a battery and is stored there until needed.

As the sun shines, the PV cells continue to convert solar power into electricity and store it in the battery. When evening approaches, a photoreceptor attached to the lighting fixture senses darkness and automatically switches on the LED light bulbs. The battery will supply the necessary power throughout the night until the sun rises or the electrical charge runs out.

Why Are LEDs the Best Solar-Powered Lighting Fixtures?

Lighting products that utilise LED technology are ideal for solar-powered lighting systems. LED light bulbs produce light up to 90% more efficiently than traditional lighting fixtures, such as incandescent and fluorescent lamps. Furthermore, they have a longer lifespan and can last tens of thousands of hours.

In comparison, incandescent light bulbs have a lifespan of about 1,000 hours, while halogen lights can last up to 3,000 hours. In addition, LEDs don’t burn out. They dim over time, making it easy to determine when they need to be replaced.

Why Are Solar-Powered LEDs So Popular?

Solar-powered LED lighting fixtures are versatile, reliable, and energy-efficient. They can be used in various settings and installed in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Although they work best outdoors, specific solar-powered LEDs, such as table lamps and “flameless” candles, can now be used indoors.

Nevertheless, solar-powered LEDS perform best when fully exposed to the sun’s rays outside. The most popular types include:

• Garden lights
• Wall lights
• House number lights

Due to innovations in lighting technology, there are many solar lighting options to choose from. For instance, at EGLO, we offer a wide range of solar-powered LED lights at affordable prices. As one of the world’s leading outdoor lighting manufacturers, we are confident that we can supply energy-efficient and environmentally friendly lighting products that will fulfil any specific requirements.

Why Switch to Solar-Powered LEDs?

Now that you know the answer to the question “How do solar-powered LED lights work?” it’s time to discuss the benefits. If you are considering upgrading your home or commercial lighting, here are some reasons to switch to solar LED lights.

1. Renewable and Sustainable

Solar power is a renewable form of energy. With the sun as your primary power source, there will be no need to worry about running out of energy. By switching to solar-powered LED lighting, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home or business will always be well-illuminated.

2. Easy Installation

Solar-powered LED lights are easy to install. All you need to do is decide where to put the lights, attach them, and then you’re good to go. Because these lighting products rely on the sun’s rays for electricity, there’s no need to run wires all over your property to ensure they are connected to a reliable power source.

3. Environmentally Friendly

As mentioned earlier, installing solar-powered LED lights is an effective way of reducing your daily carbon footprint. As these lighting fixtures don’t rely on fossil fuels, they are much friendlier to the environment. Furthermore, unlike fluorescent lights, LEDs don’t contain any harsh chemicals.

4. Bigger Savings

While it is true that solar LEDs are initially more expensive than traditional lighting products, the long-term savings will be well worth the investment. They can help reduce your daily energy consumption and eliminate the need for frequent replacements due to their longer lifespan.

5. Safe and Reliable

Compared to their traditional counterparts, solar-powered LED lights are generally safer. Because they have no external wiring, there is little to no risk of your children or pets being electrocuted or tripping on exposed wires

How to Successfully Install Solar Wall Lights

Installing solar wall lights is perhaps one of the easiest DIY projects. Unlike ordinary outdoor lighting, you won't have to deal with cables or intricate wiring. All you need to do is decide where you want to put the lights, attach them and then you're good to go.

However, consider the following factors to make the most of your solar outdoor wall lights.

1. The Lights Need as Much Sun Exposure as Possible

You must install the wall lights in a location exposed to the sun. The majority of solar-powered lights, including wall lights, require about six hours of direct sunlight to provide at least eight to ten hours of full illumination at night.

Keep in mind, the sun's position can change throughout the day. Therefore, before you start the installation, it's essential to check for potential shadows from nearby trees or buildings. This caution will ensure you find the best spots for your lights.

2. Go High

If you're familiar with solar-powered LED lights, you should try installing the lighting fixtures as high on the wall as possible. This will help maximise their ability to harvest energy from the sun. However, you also need to ensure that the LED lights are easily accessible so you can carry out essential maintenance.

3. Secure The Wall Lights

The solar-powered outdoor lights must be attached securely to the wall so strong winds won't blow them down. Most outdoor lighting products, including those on offer here at EGLO, come with screws and fastenings to ensure a secure and perfect installation. Always use the accessories with your solar wall lights to prevent damage to the fixtures or any unexpected problems.

4. Choose LEDs

Solar lights are more efficient if fitted with LEDs (light-emitting diodes) than ordinary light bulbs. LED technology is highly suitable for illuminating poorly lit areas, mainly with no access to electricity. Furthermore, LEDs offer exceptional longevity and lower electricity consumption, ensuring that your outdoor wall lights will last longer on a single charge.

At EGLO, our solar-powered wall lights are all equipped with LEDs. As a result, you can rest assured that your outdoor lights will have maximum energy efficiency and a longer lifespan.

5. Charge Your Solar Wall Lights

Don't forget to charge your solar-powered outdoor wall lights before installing them fully. Each panel needs to be exposed to direct sunlight for between 12 and 14 hours to charge the batteries. While this can take about two days to complete, it will help guarantee superior performance from your wall lights.

Also, remember to clean the solar panels before attaching the lights to the wall. This will make it easier for them to absorb solar power.

6. Seek Expert Assistance

Although installing solar wall lights is usually straightforward, you may still encounter a few problems. If you're not proficient at DIY, we recommend getting some expert advice. Better still, you may consider leaving the installation work to a professional.