5 ways to get the most out of solar lights in winter

Brits are being told of simple tips that can help them get the most out of their solar-powered lights with limited sunlight in winter.

Outdoor lighting experts at LightingLegends.com are urging homeowners to pay attention to the placement of their solar lights and to clean them regularly to ensure optimal performance.

Solar lights are a great eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for illuminating gardens, however with shorter days and reduced sunlight intensity in winter, their performance may be affected.

In order to ensure that solar lights continue to brighten up outdoor spaces all year round, homeowners are encouraged to utilise clever strategies and choose high-quality lights.

One of the most important factors is considering the placement of the lights to ensure they receive as much sunlight as possible.

To maximise sunlight exposure, the experts recommend moving  the lights to a south-facing location and adjusting the angle of the panels to catch the low winter sun.

It’s also important to keep the lights clean as dirt, snow and ice can significantly reduce the amount of light absorbed.

Investing in high-quality lights can make a big difference as many low-cost solar lights are not suitable to withstand the UK’s harsh winter weather conditions due to their smaller panels and lower-quality batteries.

Jon Saeed, managing director of LightingLegends.com said: “Solar lights are a great way to light up outdoor spaces because they’re good for the environment and free to run, however their weather-dependent nature means that darker days, snow, fallen leaves and debris can significantly affect their performance in winter.

“In order to avoid your lights dimming or running for a shorter time during the winter months, it’s important to position them right so they get as much sunlight as possible.

“Remember that the sun sits lower in the sky in winter, so it’s best to tilt the panels to get direct sun exposure. Move the lights to a south-facing location as this area receives the most consistent sunlight throughout the day.

“Make sure the solar panels are regularly cleaned as even a thin layer of snow or dirt can affect their efficiency, and opt for high-quality lights that perform better in the cold weather.”

Here are 5 ways to maximise solar lights in winter from the team at LightingLegends.com:

1. Consider placement and adjust the angle

Position your solar lights in south-facing locations where they will receive the most sunlight during the shorter winter days, making sure there aren’t any obstructions like trees or sheds blocking the light. In order to catch the low winter sun rays, adjust the lights so they’re tipped between 45° and 60°.

2. Clean the solar panels

Ice, snow and other debris like fallen leaves and dirt can accumulate on the panels in winter, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight. Make sure to regularly clean the panels with a soft cloth to maximise their charging efficiency.

3. Place near reflective surfaces

You can also direct more light into the panels with reflective surfaces. Placing aluminium foil, mirrors or specific reflectors near the lights can help bounce light onto the panels, amplifying the sunlight they receive.

4. Choose high-quality solar lights

For your solar lights to be able to withstand the UK’s harsh weather conditions in winter, it’s important to invest in good quality lights. Look for lights with high-capacity batteries and weather-resistant features which are more durable and better at capturing sunlight in low-light conditions.

5. Replace the batteries or use Dual Powered lighting

If your solar lights are not performing well in winter, it might be because the batteries are old or worn out. Replacing them with high-quality batteries can restore their efficiency. Another option is to use Dual Powered lighting solutions which come with a detachable panel which can easily be charged externally with a micro USB cable via mains power or a power bank. This allows you to still have working solar lighting even during the winter months.