What are Solar Deck Lights?
The solar-powered deck lights are becoming a popular option for adding lighting to a typical deck. They can be used as ground or in-ground path lights to garden or patio lights and as post caps. Solar deck lights are the cheaper alternative to conventional path lights, especially nowadays when energy costs have drastically increased and the need for cost-effective outdoor lighting is indispensable. These ground lights are more than just decorative; they are a more environmentally friendly solution for outdoor illumination as well.
Why Solar Deck Lighting is a great choice
Easy installation
You won’t have to worry about wiring or having electrical knowledge because solar deck lights are wireless, self-contained units. That makes it super easy to add some light to your old deck or any other outdoor space. If you’re into DIY, LED lighting is a popular choice and the installation process is really simple. You can even install deck post solar light caps without any special tools.
Less maintenance
Another great thing about solar deck lights is that it requires less maintenance than other types of lighting. You probably won’t have to touch your lights unless you need to replace a battery. That means more time enjoying your deck and less time fixing it up.
More safety
Safety is key when it comes to deck lighting, and solar railing lights can help create a visual boundary for the edge of your deck. Lights placed near steps can also help prevent tripping.
Extend the use of decks
With solar deck lighting, you can expand the use of your deck into the night, which is super useful for outdoor gatherings or just relaxing in the evening.
Increase property value
All homes have the potential to have solar deck lights installed to add even more value. If you sell your property, the outdoor lighting installed will make it more attractive to potential buyers with higher value.
Variety of options
Don’t forget about the variety of brightnesses available. You can choose from different brightness levels, from bright solar deck in-ground lights to more subdued railing lights, creating depth in your lighting design.
Factors to consider when buying Solar Lights
Light Exposure
These types of lights need sunlight to function, which means you might experience some dimming if you live in a cloudy or overcast region. But no worries, properly placed solar panels can still give you plenty of light to enjoy. You'll want to make sure to install solar deck rail lights in a way that maximizes their exposure to the sun, like placing them recessed under the rail.
Cost or budget
You might notice that solar lights are a bit more expensive than other lighting options. But don't let that discourage you. Think about the money you'll save in the long run by not having to pay for higher electricity. Many homeowners who switch to solar lighting systems see significant savings on their monthly bills. So, while the initial investment might be a bit more, it can definitely pay off in the end.
But in case you're on a budget, you don't have to go all out with solar deck lighting right away. You can start small and gradually switch to solar lighting over time by replacing old lights already installed on your deck. This way, you can add a little bit of solar lighting at a time, without breaking the bank.
Areas to illuminate
Before you start shopping, it's important to come up with a plan for what kind of lighting you need. The first thing you need to do is to figure out where you need lighting. Walk around your deck at dusk or nighttime to see where you need lights. Maybe you want to light up your seating area, the BBQ grill, or a hot tub. Or perhaps you want to highlight some cool outdoor features like plants or art.
Make sure to mark down where your deck posts are located and their size. This will help you buy the right size when you're shopping for solar light deck post caps.
Things to remember after getting solar deck lights
Charge before using
After purchasing your solar deck lights, you may be eager to install them. But remember to charge them and do not use them right away. Allow the lights to be exposed to direct sunlight for about 5-10 cycles (charging during the day and discharging at night) to fully charge the battery. After that, you'll discover that the lights can last at least 8 hours in the dark, nearly from dusk to dawn.
Maintenance
Solar deck lights easily accumulate dirt and moisture since they are intended for outdoor use. It is important to keep dirt and debris away from the solar panel as possible. A dirty solar panel will not fully charge the battery and will reduce your deck light’s battery life. Operating solar lights that are covered in dirt and debris may cause the light to fail. To maintain peak performance, clean the panel on a regular basis with a dry cloth and warm soapy water without any chemicals. Also, keep snow off the panel in the winter.
Replacing of batteries
In general, the rechargeable battery should be replaced every two years to maintain maximum capacity. But it is best to replace the battery once a year if you live in an area with a long winter or extreme weather conditions.
Enhance your outdoor lighting and add a layer of safety with our Solar Deck Lights. These outdoor LED lights are specifically designed for steps and decks, and they are powered by solar energy, making them environmentally friendly and easy to install. Enjoy stylish and practical lighting solutions that help you navigate your garden steps and decks with ease, while also being energy-efficient and low-maintenance.
Contact Zest Lighting today to know more about these products.
