Warning to homeowners over solar lights in garden

SOLAR-POWERED GARDEN LIGHTS ARE A CONVENIENT WAY TO ILLUMINATE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE WITHOUT INCREASING YOUR ENERGY BILLS, BUT THEY CAN HAVE A MAJOR DOWNSIDE THAT YOU NEED TO BE AWARE OF.

08:56, 21 May 2025 Should you be embellishing your garden with solar-powered lights this summer, Garden Lighting London suggests keeping one key factor in mind. The company points out that

although these beauteous luminaries enhance your garden, their longevity is not guaranteed. According to the specialists, the battery life of these solar-powered beacons may fall short of

expectations for some users. While they are an attractive, eco-friendly option requiring minimal upkeep, the rechargeable batteries sealed within them aren't immortal and will at some

point need replacement. These batteries are crucial for retaining the energy harnessed by the solar panels in daylight hours. However, over time, their capacity to store energy fades,

leading either to dimmer lights or complete non-function. The lifespan of the lights' batteries varies; subject to their quality and the quantity of sunlight they receive, they could

commence degradation after only two to three years, which can prove exasperating, reports the Express. Once a battery's efficacy declines, you might observe that the night time

endurance of the solar lights wanes or that they do not power on at all. For those in pursuit of more reliable solar lights, wisdom is shared on Reddit, with one individual noting: "I

have bought many disappointing brands over the years that put out a pitiful amount of lighting, but I have recently been impressed with a few solar LED stakes that have a long, filament-type

of LED/bulb casing. "They seem to give off a lot more light than the ones with a tiny nub of an LED." Despite the significant drawback of battery degradation, solar lights still

boast numerous advantages and are a popular choice for garden lovers wanting to brighten up their outdoor space. They are energy-efficient and help to keep electricity bills low as they

harness sunlight instead of drawing power from the grid. Moreover, their installation is straightforward with no need for wiring or electrical work, making them a fuss-free choice for

homeowners. These lights also offer a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for illuminating your garden, enhancing your outdoor space for any summer gatherings. However, there are a few

other factors to bear in mind such as their potentially inconsistent performance, particularly in areas with scarce sunlight. There's also an upfront cost associated with high-quality

solar lights that can exceed that of traditional lighting options, and budget models may not last as long or provide sufficient brightness. To prolong the lifespan of your solar lights,

it's advisable to invest in top-notch batteries and regularly inspect the solar panels for dirt or debris. When it's time to change the battery, choose the best possible

replacement to ensure your lights continue to glow brightly for years to come. Article continues below While solar-powered lights are a fantastic addition to any outdoor area, monitoring

battery life is key to maintaining their long-term performance.