Solar lights in focus: sustainable light for your garden

Artful accents with solar lights

They are small works of art that add outdoor or indoor area a very special touch. Imagine how your friends and family will enjoy them at your next garden party. warm, inviting atmosphere that your solar lights create.

Or how you come home after a long day and are greeted by soft, calming light that switches on automatically as soon as the sun goes down. We have something for every taste.

Whether you like it classic, modern or maybe even a little playful - there's something for everyone. And the best thing about it? You can place these lights anywhere, on the terrace by the garage or as path lighting to the front door without having to worry about power connections.

They are easy to install and even easier to enjoy. With every solar lightthat you buy, you are making a conscious decision in favor of a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. You bring light into your life and do something good for our planet at the same time. Let's make the world a little brighter and greener together.

"For even and effective lighting, ensure strategic placement when installing solar lamps to avoid shaded areas and use reflective surfaces nearby to capture the sunlight optimally."

Solar lights and their IP classification

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

1. The first digit stands for the degree of protection against the penetration of solid foreign bodies (including dust). This number ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dust-tight).
2. The second digit indicates the degree of protection against water against water. This number ranges from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protection against strong water jets and prolonged immersion).

For outdoor use, solar lights with at least one IP44 classification are generally suitable. These offer protection against the ingress of solid objects larger than 1 mm (such as small wires) and against splashing water from all directions.

If the solar lights are to be installed in an area where they are exposed to heavy water (for example near a garden pond or in very rainy areas), a higher protection class such as 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 outdoor use. Therefore, always check the product description and specifications to ensure that the light is suitable for your specific needs and environmental conditions.

How solar lights work

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

Solar moduleAt the top of the solar light is a small solar module, often referred to as a solar cell. This cell consists of photovoltaic elements that can convert sunlight into electrical energy. When the sunlight hits the solar cell, it generates an electric current through the photovoltaic effect.

Energy storageThe electrical energy generated is stored in a rechargeable battery inside the solar light. This battery recharges during the day when sufficient sunlight is available.

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 activates the light automatically.

LED lightingAs soon as the light sensor is triggered, the solar light uses the energy stored in the battery to operate the LEDs (light-emitting diodes). LEDs are known for their energy efficiency and longevity, which makes them ideal for use in solar lights.

Automatic switch-off: Many solar lights are programmed to switch off automatically at dusk or when the sun goes down. battery is almost discharged. Solar lights can also work in winter, but there are a few restrictions to bear in mind:

Reduced charging time: In winter, the days are shorter 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 lead to the battery not being fully charged.

Less light durationDue to the shorter and less efficient charging times, the light duration of the solar lights can decrease significantly in winter. Instead of shining all night, they may only work for a few hours after it gets dark.

Weather conditions: Snow, ice and dense cloud cover can reduce the efficiency of solar lights further reduced. 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 resistanceModern solar lights are generally designed to work well even in cold temperatures. The cold itself does not significantly affect the function of the solar cells, but as mentioned, it is mainly the reduced sunlight and shorter days that affect performance.

To maximize the efficiency of solar lights in winter, it is advisable to place them in a location that receives maximum sunlight during daylight hours.

Easy installation of solar lights

Installing solar lights is usually a straightforward process that requires neither special tools nor in-depth expertise. The process begins with the careful selection of the location, which is crucial 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 that the batteries are fully charged during the day.

Locations that are shaded by buildings, trees or other objects should be avoided. Before actually installing the lights, it is advisable to slightly loosen the ground into which the lights are to be inserted, especially in the case of garden path or lawn lights. 

This makes it easier to insert the ground spikes. Installing the solar lights themselves is usually straightforward, as many models are supplied with ground spikes or mounting brackets. These should be firmly inserted into the ground or attached in the desired location to ensure the lights are positioned stably and straight.

An important step in commissioning the solar lights is activation, which is often done by flipping an on/off switch or removing a protective tab. It is essential to ensure that the lights are switched on so that they can start collecting solar energy.

It should also be checked that the solar cells are optimally aligned with the sun in order to achieve maximum charge. Before first use, it is often recommended to leave the solar lights in direct sunlight for a whole day to allow the batteries to fully charge.

A subsequent overnight test run helps to check that the installed lights are working properly and providing sufficient illumination. If necessary, adjustments can be made to the position of the lights after this test run in order to achieve optimum lighting conditions. 

To summarize, installing solar lights is a simple task that requires no wiring or complex configuration. By following a few basic steps - from the choice of location to the first charge - you can ensure that the solar lights function optimally.

Important factors and care tips for solar lights

The service life of solar lights is influenced by a number of factors. These include the quality of the components used, the weather conditions to which they are exposed and the care with which they are maintained. One important aspect is the Longevity of the LEDsthat are used in solar lights. These generally have a very long service life and can last between 25,000 and 50,000 hours hours of light. This means that the LEDs themselves are not usually the reason for replacing the solar light.

Another important factor is the rechargeable battery . The batteries used in solar lights rechargeable batteries normally have a service life of about 2 to 3 yearsbefore their performance deteriorates and they need to be replaced. However, this lifespan can be affected by various conditions, such as extreme temperature fluctuations or insufficient sunlight for charging.

The solar cellswhich form the heart of every solar light, can last up to 15 to 20 years work effectively. However, it should be noted that their 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 overall build quality.

Solar lights that are specifically designed for use in outdoor use and made from robust materials such as stainless steel or weatherproof plastic can last for many years. To maximize the lifespan of your solar lights, it is advisable to clean them regularly.

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

Why solar lights are the better choice

Solar lights are used for several reasons more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional outdoor lights are considered to be the best. One of the main reasons is their use of sunlight as an energy source. Unlike conventional outdoor lights, which often rely on electricity from the grid - which is often derived from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas - solar lights use a renewable source.

This reduces reliance on fossil fuels, the burning of which contributes to the release of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, which in turn have a harmful impact on the climate and environment. Another important aspect is the reduction of the CO2 footprint. Solar lights produce no direct greenhouse gas emissions during their operation, as they rely entirely on solar energy.

In contrast, conventional lights contribute to the overall environmental impact through their energy consumption and the associated CO2 emissions. Added to this is the energy efficiency of solar lights. As a rule, they use LED technology technology, which consumes considerably less energy than traditional light bulbs or halogen lamps . This leads to a lower overall energy consumption and makes solar lights an efficient lighting solution.

Another advantage is their Independence from the power grid. This independence reduces the burden on the energy infrastructure and reduces the associated environmental impact. The longevity and ease of maintenance of solar lights also contribute to their environmental friendliness. The LEDs in solar lights have a longer service life than conventional light sources which means that they need to be replaced less often, resulting in less waste.

Also in terms of health and safety solar lights offer advantages. They do not require a cable, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. In addition, unlike some traditional light sources, they do not generate heat, which reduces the risk of fire. 

However, it is important to remember that solar lights also have an environmental impact, particularly in terms of their manufacture and disposal. However, these impacts are minor compared to the impacts of traditional outdoor lighting which makes solar lights a more environmentally friendly lighting option overall.

Our tips for solar lamps

To get the most out of your solar lights and maximize their efficiency and lifespan, there are a few key aspects to consider. Optimal placement of your solar lights is crucial; they should be positioned in areas that receive direct sunlight. 

This means that shadows from trees, buildings or other obstructions should be avoided as they can affect the charging efficiency of the solar cells. Regular cleaning of the solar cells is another important point. Deposits 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 light absorption and thus increase the performance of the solar lights. Battery care also plays an important role. Before using the solar lights for the first time, you should make sure that the batteries are fully charged. 

It can be beneficial to leave the lights switched off in direct sunlight for one to two days to allow the batteries to fully charge. If the solar lights shine less brightly over time or their light duration decreases, this could be an indication that it is time to replace the battery.

In winter, the challenges for solar lights can increase as the sunlight is weaker and the days are shorter. The efficiency of your solar lights can be improved by regularly removing snow and ice from the solar cells. 

Care must be taken when inserting the lights into the ground to avoid damage. If the ground is hard or stony, the use of a ground preparation tool may be useful. It is also important to regularly check the light sensor, which is responsible for automatically switching on the solar lights at dusk. Make sure that this sensor is not covered by dirt.

Also take into account seasonal changes in sunlight and adjust the position of your solar lights if necessary to ensure optimal charging. When installing the solar lights, make sure that they are securely anchored in the ground and do not pose a tripping hazard. 

Finally, the environmentally conscious disposal of defective solar lights is an important aspect. Batteries and electronic parts should be disposed of properly to prevent damage to the environment. By following these tips, you can not only optimize the performance of your solar lights and extend their service life, but also make a valuable contribution to protecting the environment.

Conclusion - How to do everything right!

Solar lamps offer an environmentally friendly and efficient lighting solution that uses the power of the sun to illuminate outdoor areas. They are low-maintenance, easy to install and independent of the power grid, making them an ideal choice for gardens, paths and other outdoor areas.

Despite some limitations in terms of charging time and light intensity in less than ideal conditions, they contribute significantly to environmental protection through their low energy consumption and reduced carbon footprint.

If you are still undecided about how you want to implement the lighting, please make an appointment with the lighting designers from skapetze®to discuss a personal consultation and the development of a individual lighting concept and the development of an individual lighting concept.

You are also welcome to visit us on site in Simbach am Inn at our light studio come and visit us.

If you already have a concrete idea of how the lights should look in your home, we can help you turn this idea into reality - our in-house workshop makes it possible.