The Correct Way To Use Solar Lights
Bryan Wong
If you need outdoor lighting in places where there is no regular power
source or the power source is difficult to reach than solar power
lights can be the answer. The solar power lights can be used to provide
accent lightning. There types of solar power lights that light up
brightly but others don't. Although the lights are getting better you
must not think of these lights to be as bright as regular powered
light.
To make the solar powered light shine brightly you need sunshine of
course. More sunshine is better, when it is cloudy, rainy, or during
winter they perform less. At least 8 hours of sunshine and fully
charged batteries will make solar powered lights powerful enough.
Most solar powered lighting kits are not as bright as low voltage,
electric powered lights. But new models can adequately highlight
plants, mark a path, or provide simple security. Solar powered lights
need no wires, what is a big advantage. Everybody who has placed
traditional lightning themselves will see advantage. Just put them on
the ground, and move them anytime you wish. Solar powered lights also
use renewable energy and are non-pollutants. Solar powered lights have
built-in light sensors that automatically turn off during the day and
turn on at night.
In the past, solar cells were (and many still are) very weak and could
not hold a consistent charge for more than a few hours. Now, solar
lighting designers and engineers have been able to use advanced light
emitting diode lamps that draw minimal current yet provide intense
light output. LED lamps are so efficient that one lamp can last for
several years before being replaced.
In the new solar power lights the NiCAD (Nickel Cadmium) or NiMH
(Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries are used to power solar
batteries. Under normal conditions these batteries can last for one
year. After that year you can replace them when needed.
The three most common uses of solar lights are:
1) Outdoor Lights
This is the simplest and safest way to light landscape environments.
Compared to conventional 12V and 120V outdoor lights, solar powered
outdoor lights have great electric consumption cost savings! Solar
cells collect light during the day and recharge its lithium batteries.
With light sensors, these lights automatically turn on at dusk. Normal
operating time is 8-10 hours when fully charged. Lights automatically
recharge during the next day. Types of outdoor lights may include
hanging lights, wall mounted lamps, or even low post lamps.
2) Garden Lights
Solar powered garden lights emit a light that is luminous enough to
accent plants. The designs of these lights are also good enough to
complement the plant designs. These can be wonderful garden
decorations. Some lights have been designed to look like mushrooms,
dwarves, birds, flowers, and other natural elements of the garden.
Other lights are designed to be nice complements to a garden. Most
garden lights are low lights that are usually on the ground.
3) These lights use a small, photovoltaic (PV) cell to charge a battery
that is integrated into the lighting fixture itself. After being
charged by the sun all day, the battery provides power to the lamp to
illuminate the landscapes during nightfall. These lights often provide
the most powerful illumination of the three types.
Landscape lights come in various styles. Some have decorative designs
that are made of die case metal for durability and styling detail. Some
may even resemble lamppost lighting fixtures that make some large
landscapes look great!
Always consider the surrounding geography of your home before planning
where to put your landscape lights. The most critical is the placement
of the PV panel since any interference to the cell will affect the
performance of the landscape lights. Make sure that the PV panel will
be placed in a spot where virtually nothing will cover it so it can
absorb the maximum amount of sunlight. If your area is full of trees
and surrounding buildings, solar powered landscape lights may not be
for you.
Bryan Wong is the owner of the solar information website
http://www.GetEasyInfo.com/solarpower - A great website that shares
quality Info, News and TIPS on solar energy.
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