Categories: Blog

Your Guide to Outdoor Solar Light Strings

There’s something magical about gentle, glowing light that hangs across a backyard patio or flows through a garden. If you are looking for a simple way to create that atmosphere with no need to run extension wires and no increase in your utility bill, solar light strings are your best choice. 

String solar lights charge during the day, powered solely by the sun, then turn on automatically as dusk approaches. Solar-powered string lights are one of the simplest modifications you can make to your space, whether you’re creating a warm ambiance for summer nights, illuminating a fence line for security, or decorating for a party.

How Solar String Lights Work

When one thinks of outdoor lighting, it often conjures images of tangled cords, outdoor outlets, and timers. However, today’s modern solar light technology has revolutionized the landscape, allowing us to eliminate the need for outdoor wiring or extension cords for cozy outdoor lighting.

The operation of solar lights is rather simple. There’s a small solar panel that absorbs sunlight throughout the day and stores energy in a built-in battery. At dusk, special sensors automatically activate the lights. As a result, warm light with no switches, no wiring, and no fuss.

The main bonus of solar light strings is the minimal spending requirement. First, you don’t pay for electricity as the lights work on free green energy. Additionally, most outdoor solar string lights require minimal maintenance, as they often use energy-efficient LEDs. The LEDs ensure long-lasting brightness, so the system requires minimal maintenance, with the only task being to clean the panel periodically.

Source: QVC.com

 

It’s no surprise that, due to their convenience, solar light strings have become increasingly popular among homeowners in recent years. This solution can be not just decorative but also rather practical. 

Depending on your request, choose from tiny fairy lights for a small balcony to solar post lights that line walkways and enjoy with no extra spending.

Benefits You Get With Solar Light Strings

1. Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly 

By using solar energy, you can save money on your electricity bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

2. Various Designs

Depending on your requirement, you can choose from solar post lights for pathways, solar fence lights for added safety, or solar-powered string lights to create a cozy outdoor ambiance.

3. Easy Installation

There’s no easier installation than this one. No need for wiring or outlets—simply place the solar panel in a sunny spot and arrange the string lights wherever you’d like.

4. Weatherproof Durability

This point is rather important, and mainly the lights are used outdoors. Mind it when choosing the model. Many are designed to be outdoor waterproof, meaning they can withstand rain, snow, and other adverse weather conditions.

5. Automatic Operation

Built-in light sensors make the solar lights very convenient for any household. They ensure your lights turn on at dusk and off at dawn, so you don’t have to worry about manually switching them on or off.

When Solar Lights Work Best

Solar-powered outdoor lights are rather versatile and can be used in almost any outdoor area. It’s not just a decoration from Pinterest pictures; they can work for different purposes. Let’s discuss how string solar lights can be used:

  • Brightness: Measured in lumens; brighter lights work best for pathways, while soft, warm lights create ambiance.
  • Battery Capacity: Solar light strings include a rechargeable battery that stores energy during the daytime. Think of how sunny your area is and how long you need the lighting to last. Obviously, higher capacity batteries ensure your solar lights last longer.
  • Panel Efficiency: Likewise, consider the required capacity and local weather conditions when making your decision. Note that high-quality solar panels charge faster, even in cloudy conditions.
  • Weather Resistance: If you know that your solar lights will be used outdoors, look for IP65-rated solar light strings that are specifically designed for outdoor use. You can keep them on your balcony or in the garden during rainy or snowy weather.
  • Style and Length: Lastly, the design. You can choose between classic Edison bulbs, fairy lights, lantern-style lights, or globe lights, depending on your aesthetic.

Source: Homes & Gardens

 

Solar Light Installation Tips

Keep in mind that a little preparation can guarantee long-lasting and effective operation for solar string lights outdoors. Analyze your area and position the solar panel to receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. It’s wise to experiment with different angles. If you’re hanging large strands, use outside clips or hooks to keep the lights from tangling and arrange anchor points so the lights have a natural curve.

Pro tip: Purchase a set with a detachable solar panel on a stake if you live in a region with frequent fog or high humidity. This way, you can place the lights wherever you like and the panel in the most sunny location.

Are Solar String Lights Worth It?

Solar light strings are an excellent option if you’re looking for a simple and reasonably priced way to enhance your outdoor space, decorate and illuminate your outdoor area for a special event, or add some light for safety. 

Solar lights come in multiple designs to suit your style, are easy to set up, and require no electricity to operate. One of the easiest home improvement projects is adding solar fence lights to make your property safer at night or stringing fairy lights through a tree for a backyard dinner.

  • Lining garden pathways or fences for safety and style.
  • Lighting Remote properties where there’s no access to power.
  • Adding light and cozy vibes for camping or glamping trips. Light your outdoor space without a generator.

Source: Gardeningetc

 

  • Creating a romantic glow at parties, weddings, or special events without a huge electric bill.
  • Lighting small yards and balconies where wiring or electric cords are not practical.
  • Working as a test lighting design before committing to permanent wiring.

Looking for the best solar system? Don’t hesitate to get a free solar quote!

GET SOLAR QUOTE

Choosing the Best Outdoor Solar Lights

At first, one might think that the main factors in selecting good outdoor solar lights are the bulb shape and length. However, in reality, to choose the best solar string light, you need to consider several key points. Depending on the purpose and the location where you plan to use the lights, you should think of the following:

  • Brightness: Measured in lumens; brighter lights work best for pathways, while soft, warm lights create ambiance.
  • Battery Capacity: Solar light strings include a rechargeable battery that stores energy during the daytime. Think of how sunny your area is and how long you need the lighting to last. Obviously, higher capacity batteries ensure your solar lights last longer.
  • Panel Efficiency: Likewise, consider the required capacity and local weather conditions when making your decision. Note that high-quality solar panels charge faster, even in cloudy conditions.
  • Weather Resistance: If you know that your solar lights will be used outdoors, look for IP65-rated solar light strings that are specifically designed for outdoor use. You can keep them on your balcony or in the garden during rainy or snowy weather.
  • Style and Length: Lastly, the design. You can choose between classic Edison bulbs, fairy lights, lantern-style lights, or globe lights, depending on your aesthetic.

Source: Homes & Gardens

 

Solar Light Installation Tips

Keep in mind that a little preparation can guarantee long-lasting and effective operation for solar string lights outdoors. Analyze your area and position the solar panel to receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. It’s wise to experiment with different angles. If you’re hanging large strands, use outside clips or hooks to keep the lights from tangling and arrange anchor points so the lights have a natural curve.

Pro tip: Purchase a set with a detachable solar panel on a stake if you live in a region with frequent fog or high humidity. This way, you can place the lights wherever you like and the panel in the most sunny location.

Are Solar String Lights Worth It?

Solar light strings are an excellent option if you’re looking for a simple and reasonably priced way to enhance your outdoor space, decorate and illuminate your outdoor area for a special event, or add some light for safety. 

Solar lights come in multiple designs to suit your style, are easy to set up, and require no electricity to operate. One of the easiest home improvement projects is adding solar fence lights to make your property safer at night or stringing fairy lights through a tree for a backyard dinner.