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Focus on solar lights: Sustainable light for your garden

Solarleuchten im Fokus: Nachhaltiges Licht für Deinen Garten

Sophie E.

"Imagine how you not only illuminate your garden or home with solar lighting, but also make a positive contribution to environmental protection. With every solar light you choose, you use the power of the sun - a clean, renewable energy source that never Drained.

Artful accents with solar lights



You are little works of art that yours Outside or interior give a very special note. Imagine how your friends and family at your next garden festival Warm, inviting atmosphere Admire yours Solar lights create.


Or how you come home after a long day and from gentle, soothing light You will be received that automatically switches on as soon as the sun goes down. We have something for every taste.


Regardless of whether you like it classic, modern or maybe even a little playful - there is something for every taste. And the best thing about it? You can set up these lights anywhere terrace , at the garage or as Lamp To the front door without having to worry about power connections.


They are easy to install and enjoy even easier. With everyone Solar light that you buy, you make a conscious decision for one more environmentally friendly lifestyle. You bring light into your life and at the same time do something good for our planet. Let us shape the world a little brighter and green together.


"For uniform and effective lighting, pay attention to strategic placement when installing solar lamps to avoid shadow areas and use reflective surfaces nearby to optimally capture the sunlight."

Employees

Expert tip by Roland H.

Light planner at Skapetze

Solar lights and their IP classification



When buying solar lights for the Outdoor area Is it important to the IP classification (Ingress Protection). This classification indicates how well the lamp is protected against the penetration of solid objects (such as dust) and water. The IP classification consists of two digits:


  1. The first number stands for the Level of protection Against the penetration of solid foreign bodies (including dust). This digit ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dustproof).
  2. The second digit gives the Protection degree against water to. This digit ranges from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protection against strong jet water and longer immersion).

For the outdoor area Solar lights With at least one IP44 classification usually suitable. These offer protection against the penetration of solid objects larger than 1 mm (like small wires) and against splash water from all directions.

If the solar lights are to be set up in an area in which they are exposed to stronger water (for example near one Garden pond Or in very rainy areas), is a higher protection class like IP65 or IP67 recommended. These offer more comprehensive protection against water.


It is also important to note that not all solar lights are automatically suitable for the outdoor area. So always check the Product description And specifications to ensure that the lamp is suitable for your specific needs and environmental conditions.


This is how solar lights work



A solar lamp works in a simple and efficient way by using solar energy to create light. The process can be divided into several key steps:


Solar module: There is a small solar module on the top of the solar light, often referred to as solar cell. This cell consists of photovoltaic elements that can convert sunlight into electrical energy. When the sunlight hits the solar cell, it creates an electrical current due to the photovoltaic effect.


Energy storage: The electrical energy generated is saved in a rechargeable battery within the solar light. This Battery Uses during the day when there is sufficient sunlight.


Light sensor (Twilight sensor): Solar lights are usually equipped with a light sensor. This sensor Recognizes when the ambient brightness decreases (for example at sunset). At this moment, the sensor automatically activates the lamp.


LED lighting: As soon as the light sensor is triggered, the solar lamp uses the energy stored in the battery to operate the LEDs (luminos). LEDs are known for their energy efficiency and durability, which makes them ideal for use in solar lights.


Automatic shutdown: Many solar lights are programmed in such a way that they automatically switch off at dawn or if the Battery is almost unloaded.


Solar lights can also work in winter, but there are some restrictions to consider:


Reduced loading time: The days are shorter in winter and the sunlight is often a lot weaker, which means that the solar cells have less time and less intense light to charge. This can cause the battery not be fully charged.


Lower light duration: Due to the shorter and less efficient loading times, the luminaire of the solar lights can be very much decreased in winter. Instead of shining all night, you may only work for a few hours after it gets dark.


Weather conditions: Snow, ice and dense clouds can be the efficiency of Solar lights further reduce.


Snow or ice that accumulates on the solar cells blocks the sunlight and prevents the battery from charging. It is therefore important to keep the solar cells clean regularly in winter.


Cold resistance: Modern solar lights are usually designed in such a way that they work well even at cold temperatures. The cold itself does not significantly affect the function of the solar cells, but as mentioned, it is above all the reduced solar radiation and the shorter days that affect performance.


In order to maximize the efficiency of solar lights in winter, it is advisable to place it in a place that receives maximum sunlight during the day.


Easy installation of solar lights



The installation of solar lights is usually an uncomplicated undertaking, which does not require any special tools or profound specialist knowledge. The process begins with the careful selection of the location, which is of crucial importance for the efficiency of the solar cells. It is important to choose a place where the solar lights are exposed to direct sunlight to ensure a complete charge of the batteries during the day.


Places that are shaded by buildings, trees or other objects should be avoided. Before the actual installation of the lights, it is advisable to loosen up the soil in which the lights are to be plugged in a little, especially with garden path or lawn lights. This makes it easier to insert the earth's skewers. The assembly of the solar lights themselves is usually uncomplicated because many models are supplied with skewers or assembly brackets. These should be stuck in the floor or attached to the desired location to ensure a stable and straight positioning of the lights.


An important step in the commissioning of the solar lights is activation, which is often carried out by fitting a on/off switch or removing a protective tap. It is essential to ensure that the lights are switched on so that you can start collecting solar energy. Furthermore, it should be checked whether the solar cells are optimally aligned with the sun in order to achieve a maximum load. Before the first use, it is often recommended to leave the solar lights in direct sunlight for a whole day so that the batteries can be completely charged.


A subsequent test run overnight helps to check the proper function and sufficient lighting of the installed lights. If necessary, adjustments to the position of the lights can be made after this test run in order to achieve optimal lighting conditions. In summary, it can be said that the installation of solar lights is a simple task that does not require cabling or complex configuration. By observing some basic steps - from the selection of the location to the first load - an optimal function of the solar lights can be ensured.



Important factors and care tips for solar lights



The lifespan of Solar lights is influenced by a variety of factors. This includes the quality of the built -in components, the weather conditions that they are exposed to, as well as the care with which they are serviced. An essential aspect is that Longevity of the LEDsthat are used in solar lights. These usually have a very high lifespan and can be between 25,000 and 50,000 hours Donate light. This means that the LEDs themselves are usually not the reason for replacing the solar light.


Another important factor is that Battery . Those used in solar lights Battery Usually have a lifespan of about 2 to 3 years, before your performance subsides and you have to be replaced. However, this lifespan can be affected by different conditions, such as with extreme temperature fluctuations or inadequate sunlight for charging.


The Solar cellsthat form the heart of every solar lamp, can be up to adequate care and under normal conditions up to 15 to 20 years work effectively. However, it should be noted that your efficiency can gradually decrease over the years. The durability of the housing and other physical components of the solar light depends heavily on the material used and the general construction quality.


Solar lights specially for use in Outdoor area Designed and made of robust materials such as stainless steel or weatherproof plastic, can last many years. In order to maximize the lifespan of your solar lights, it is advisable to clean them regularly.


This ensures that the solar cells are not covered by dirt or deposits and can therefore work efficiently. It is also advisable to protect the lights from extremely bad weather conditions and replace the batteries if necessary to ensure a constant performance.


Why solar lights are the better choice



For several reasons, solar lights are than more environmentally friendly alternative To conventional Outer lights viewed. One of the main reasons is their use of Sunlight as an energy source. In contrast to conventional outer lights, which are often dependent on electricity from the power grid - which are often obtained from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas - use solar lights a renewable source.


This reduces the dependence on fossil fuels, the combustion of which contributes to the release of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, which in turn have harmful effects on the climate and the environment. Another important aspect is to reduce CO2 footprint. Solar lights Do not produce direct greenhouse gas emissions during their operation because they are completely dependent on solar energy.


In contrast, conventional lights contribute to the overall burden on the environment due to their energy consumption and the associated CO2 emissions. In addition, there is the energy efficiency of the solar lights. They usually use LED technology that consumes much less energy than traditional Light bulb or Halogen lamps . This leads to one lower energy consumption And makes solar lights an efficient lighting solution.


Another advantage is yours Independence from the power grid. This independence reduces the load on the energy infrastructure and reduces the associated environmental impact. The longevity and maintenance -friendliness of solar lights also contribute to their environmental friendliness. The LEDs in solar lights have a longer lifespan than conventional Illuminant , which means that they have to be replaced less often and therefore less waste arises.


Also in terms of Security and health offer solar lights advantages. They do without cables, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. In addition, in contrast to some traditional lamps, they do not generate any heat, which reduces the risk of fire. However, it is important to consider that solar lights also have environmental impacts, especially with regard to their manufacture and disposal.


However, these effects are more conventional compared to the effects Outer lighting Usually less, which makes solar lights an overall more environmentally friendly lighting option.


Our tips for solar lamps



In order to get the best out of your solar lights and maximize their efficiency and service life, there are some essential aspects to take into account. An optimal placement of your solar lights is crucial; They should be positioned in areas that receive direct sunlight. This means that shadows through trees, buildings or other obstacles should be avoided because they can affect the charging efficiency of the solar cells. Regular cleaning of the solar cells is another important point. Disposal such as dust, dirt or bird droppings can significantly reduce the efficiency of the solar cells.


Gentle cleaning with a soft, damp cloth can improve the light absorption and thus increase the performance of the solar lights. The battery care also plays a major role. Before the first use, you should make sure that the batteries of the solar lights are fully charged. It can be advantageous to leave the lights switched off in direct sunlight for one to two days so that the batteries can be completely charged. If the solar lights seem less bright over time or reduces their luminaire, this could be an indication that it is time to change the battery.


In winter, the challenges for solar lights can increase because the sun's rays are weaker and the days are shorter. The efficiency of your solar lights can be improved by the solar cells by regularly removing snow and ice. When inserting the lights into the ground, caution is advised to avoid damage. If the soil is hard or stony, the use of a tool for preparing ground can be useful. It is also important to check the light sensor regularly, which is responsible for the fact that the solar lights automatically switch on when the dawn is collapsed. Make sure that this sensor is not covered by dirt.


Consider seasonal changes in the sun's rays and adapt the position of your solar lights if necessary to ensure an optimal load. When installing the solar lights, make sure that they are securely anchored in the ground and that they are not a stumbling block. After all, the environmentally conscious disposal of defective solar lights is an important aspect. Batteries and electronic parts should be disposed of professionally to avoid damage to the environment. By following these tips, you can not only optimize the performance of your solar lights and extend their lifespan, but also make a valuable contribution to environmental protection.


Conclusion - that's how you do everything!



Solar lamps offer an environmentally friendly and efficient lighting solution that uses the power of the sun to illuminate outside areas. They are low in maintenance, easy to install and regardless of the power grid, which makes it an ideal choice for garden, paths and other outdoor areas.


Despite some restrictions on loading time and light intensity under less ideal conditions, they contribute significantly to environmental protection due to their low energy consumption and the reduction of the CO2 footprint.


If you are still undecided how you want to implement the lighting, please make an appointment with the light planners of Skapetze, To a personal advice and the development of a individual lighting concept to take advantage of.


You are also welcome to us on site in Simbach am Inn Light studio visit come.


If you already have a concrete idea what the lights should look like in your home, we can help you to implement this idea into reality - ours in -house workshop makes it possible.