About the Author
Kate Neville
If you're looking for an efficient but easy way to light a deck, garden, or just the back yard, solar lights might be the right choice. They're getting a lot more effective and popular. Lots of people have turned to outside solar light to decorate their outdoor areas and provide illumination for entertaining after dark. These lights are easy to set up, and add an elegant feel to many outdoor locations. Since they're so simple to install, almost anyone can have lighting around their home without having to call a professional. Solar lights don't require wiring, making them safe and inexpensive to put in, and they also help you avoid running up a high energy bill.
Solar outdoor lights are each equipped with a solar panel to collect energy from light that falls on the fixture. This light is converted to electricity, which can be used by the light to illuminate your property after dark. Of course, the more sun that falls on the panel, the longer your lights will run and the brighter they'll be. That means that positioning is an important part of using solar outdoor lights.
Ideally, each light should receive between six and eight hours or direct sunlight exposure. This level of light will give you eight to twelve hours of illumination - enough to last pretty much the entire night. Remember that this amount of sunlight is only possible if you place your outside solar lights in a location where they won't be shaded.
Many solar light fixtures aren't as bright as conventional wired ones. That means that you won't be able to get a floodlight effect from this type of fixture. However, for decorative or ambient lighting purposes, these lights are ideal. They can help illuminate a path at night to prevent falls, provide lighting for parties and gatherings, or just provide an attractive glow once the sun's gone down.
Modern solar outdoor lights are much higher quality than previous models, including high efficiency batteries and bulbs that don't use a lot of power. While they're not as bright as a conventional light, the current line of solar lighting options are a lot brighter, whiter, and more reliable than older types. So, if you've heard that solar lights just aren't any good, don't feel like they're not an option. New outdoor solar lights can measure up.
You can find these lights at most home and garden stores. If there aren't any in your area, consider looking online. Many websites have a wider selection and lower prices than a local store. Just factor shipping in when you decide whether a given set of lights fits your budget.
Published by Kate Neville on July 5, 2008 10:01 PM