Solar Outdoor Garden Lights

Solar outdoor garden lights can be the perfect solution for many outdoor lighting needs. These are perhaps the most commonly purchased and widely developed type of solar technology today. Over the years the technology has improved and the prices have come down dramatically.

Historically the most common look for this type of garden light was a pagoda lantern style, constructed from hard black plastic, and was a fixed atop a 2 foot pole that could be inserted into the ground. The lantern would have 2 small solar panels on the top that would draw energy to a battery. These lights tended to give off a dull yellow glow. These lights were decidedly unattractive. Thankfully, times have changed. In fact, the variety of options for solar outdoor garden lights currently available can be quite overwhelming. You can find all sorts of colors and styles ranging from brushed nickel to hammered copper. There are some very beautiful lights available at very reasonable prices. Add in the fact, that this type of outdoor lighting doesn't add a nickel to you electricity bill the argument for solar garden lights is compelling.

Despite the wide array of lights on the market, there are some similarities that cross all styles. Here are a few things to consider when selecting solar garden lights:

1. Brightness. Solar lights are not very bright. Often solar outdoor lights are best used as accent lights. If you require a certain minimal level of brightness, look for solar lights that use fluorescent bulbs (which require a lot more energy) or at least two LED bulbs. If possible, do some research about the intensity of the light prior to purchase. You can look for reviews online. Many stores will allow you to return the lights within 14 days if you find the intensity is not suitable.

2. Placement. The lights may be placed anywhere in your garden, as long as there is adequate sunlight for the solar panel to properly charge the battery. These outdoor lights do not need to be placed near an outside power source.

3. Installation. This is the easy part. For the majority of solar garden lights, the installation process is as simple as sticking it into the ground. Other lights will need to be affixed to a post or the side of a building. Most lights have no wiring so there is no need for an electrician or for digging trenches.

4. Solar panels. Solar garden lights are fairly compact units and are generally sold in groups of 2, 4, 6, or 8. Each individual light comes complete with a solar panel, light sensor mechanism, rechargeable battery, and LED light source. You can also find the less common solar lights that come as sets where each light is wired to a single larger solar panel. The advantage of this type of light is that it can be placed in the shade as long as the solar panel is placed in the sunlight.

5. Light sensors. Most solar garden lights come with automatic light sensors that detect the onset of dusk and the breaking of dawn. The lights are then automatically switched on or off accordingly to the need for the light. There is no point in draining the battery during the day light hours. To have the ability to control when the lights are activated, look for solar lights with a manual override capacity.

For your outdoor lighting needs, it makes sense to make use of the resources that are present. The sun is an obvious resource. After investing in the lights, there are no further costs. You can find this type of outdoor lighting at any hardware or renovation store including the big box stores such as Home Depot or Lowes. Solar lighting at Home Depot comes with the great Home Depot warranty and exchange policies. Outdoor solar garden lights are a reasonably priced and environmentally sensitive way to meet you outdoor lighting needs.