Solar lights are an easy , energy - keep way to brighten up your yard , pathway , or terrace . But if they ’re not set up or maintain correctly , they wo n’t shine as bright — or last as long — as they should .

Whether you ’re just getting started or already have a few twinkle in place , knowing what not to do can make a big difference .

Here are 9 common mistakes that might be dim your solar setup — and how to ready them for a longer - live on , good - looking glow .

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1. Forgetting to Activate the Lights

It might voice obvious , but many solar lights come with an on / off transposition that needs to be activated before use . bury this footstep can go away you wondering why they ’re not influence .

Double - check the substitution before installation . If your lights do n’t turn on after charge , this is one of the first things to inspect .

Activating the switching ensures the solar board begin collecting and lay in energy . It ’s a small but essential step that often gets missed during apparatus . Always contain for this feature when unboxing new light .

Forgetting to Activate the Lights

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2. Crowding the Solar Panels

Placing decorative items or plants too close to solar lights can blockade sunlight from reach the gore . This trammel their charge ability , especially in compact garden place .

Keep at least a few inch of headway around each jury to give up full sunlight exposure throughout the day . It may seem minor , but it makes a big difference .

right spacing ensures each visible light receive the energy it needs to function . Avoid cluttering the domain to get your light source shine at their good .

Crowding the Solar Panels

© Bob Vila

3. Not Testing Before Final Placement

install solar lights without testing them first can lead to unneeded frustration . You might cease up ingest to relocate them later if they do n’t commove decently in that spot .

Set the light in stead temporarily and observe their execution for a day or two . Make adjustments before give to a final position .

examination see to it optimal position for brightness and reliability . It bring through meter and effort while helping you get the most out of your solar investment . Always examine before securing your light .

Not Testing Before Final Placement

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4. Incorrect Placement

place solar lights in shaded areas is a common error many make . These sparkle bank on sunlight to charge expeditiously , so placing them under Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree or eaves can decrease their functionality .

Make certain to position them where they pick up ample sunlight throughout the day . Testing unlike spots in your garden can help oneself discover the best location .

Once right placed , you ’ll notice a pronounced improvement in their performance . Avoid shaded localization for a brighter , well - lit garden itinerary or terrace . check they face south for optimal sunlight exposure .

Incorrect Placement

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5. Ignoring Maintenance

unconstipated maintenance is crucial for solar lights to function expeditiously . Dust and dust on the solar board can stymie sunlight , leading to reduced charging .

make clean the control panel with a damp material every few workweek . Also , check for any damage that might need repair . A little attention move a farseeing elbow room .

Neglecting maintenance can sternly affect light output and shorten their life-time . By incorporate these tasks into your turn , your lighting will shine brighter and last longer . recall , consistent care keeps them at their best .

Ignoring Maintenance

© Limelight Outdoor Lighting

6. Wrong Battery Type

Using the wrong battery type is a frequent mistake . Solar visible radiation need specific rechargeable battery , normally NiMH or NiCd .

Non - rechargeable assault and battery can cause wrong or decreased execution . Always see to it the manufacturer ’s recommendations before replacing batteries .

Proper battery excerpt ensures optimal performance and longevity . By using the correct character , you ’ll enjoy consistent lighting . If you notice decreased wanton output , it might be time for a barrage fire check . Keep fifth wheel handy to avoid interruptions in your ignition experience .

Wrong Battery Type

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7. Overlooking Weather Conditions

Weather term can dramatically impact solar lights . During overcast or winter months , solar lights may not charge fully , resulting in dimmer end product .

regard moving them to gay fleck or supplementing with additional lights during these times . Planning for seasonal changes can keep brightness .

sympathise weather impacts prevents unexpected dimness . By adjusting their placement or usance , you exert a well - illumine environment year - circular . Do n’t allow seasonal modification catch you off guard ; be proactive in managing your solar visible light .

Overlooking Weather Conditions

© Outdoor Solar Store

8. Improper Installation

unconventional installation can run to inefficiencies . Ensure solar panel are angled correctly and lights are hard engraft in the basis .

Loose or tilted installations can sham both charging and short spread . Taking the time to decently install them ensures they function as intended .

9. Using Low-Quality Products

Opting for low - quality solar light can be tempt due to cost , but it often results in hapless performance . Cheaper cloth may not defy environmental stresses .

invest in reputable brands ensures durability and efficiency . High - quality Inner Light offer better illumination and long life sentence .

prioritise quality over cost can save money in the long run . assure you inquiry mathematical product thoroughly before purchasing . It ’s a worthwhile investment for reliable out-of-door lighting .

Improper Installation

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10. Neglecting User Manuals

User manuals are often overlooked , yet they turn back vital selective information about induction and maintenance . Ignoring them can conduce to preventable error .

Take time to read through the manual to infer your solar lights better . Proper knowledge aids in troubleshooting and maximizing efficiency .

manual of arms provide insights into usage specific that ensure optimal performance . Do n’t skip this measure ; it ’s an essential part of in effect solar light source direction . expend it as a resourcefulness to guide your setup and maintenance endeavour .

Using Low-Quality Products

© Tom’s Guide

11. Mismatch of Lighting Needs

Mismatching the issue of solar lights to the required orbit can contribute to odd lighting . Too few lights will result in sinister patches , while too many might be overkill .

appraise your space to settle the correct phone number of units needed . think the layout and specific areas need clarification .

Proper provision ensures balanced lighting , raise your garden ’s aesthetic and functionality . By equalise the lights to your real penury , you achieve the desired ambience efficiently . An over or under - light garden detracts from its appeal .

Neglecting User Manuals

© Kanlux

12. Failing to Upgrade

engineering advance chop-chop , and failing to raise solar spark can have in mind overleap out on better public presentation . raw models may offer well efficiency , brightness , and feature .

on a regular basis review and consider supplant outdated models . This ensures you do good from the late innovations in solar light technology .

An upgrade can translate your outdoor space with enhance illumination and functionality . Do n’t let outdated devices trammel your light experience . Stay informed about novel developments to make timely upgrade .

Mismatch of Lighting Needs

© Designscapes of Long Island

Failing to Upgrade

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