Solar lighting is gaining in popularity. As we all consider the effects of climate change, the idea of using the sun to power our life becomes more attractive, with no emissions and no ongoing costs, solar energy is looking good. We harness the suns energy using solar panels which convert the sun into electricity which are stored in batteries called photovoltaic cells. The battery can then be used to power whatever item it is attached to. This means of powering devices is very suited to use in the garden or yard. The ideas of being able to get power around the yard without running cables everywhere is appealing. Outdoor solar lights can be used pretty much anywhere that gets sun. The lights can be placed all around, as long as the solar detectors are placed in full sun. So where could you use solar lights?

There are many uses for solar powered outdoor lights and more being thought of every day. Here are some of the more common uses-Christmas lights, garden lights, deck lights, security lights, camping lights, fountain lights. All these lights are for outside, although solar panels can be outside and the lights  inside it is more common to have the panel attached to a single light and placed near it outdoors.

Solar Christmas Lights

We all enjoy Christmas lighting, but the effort that goes into wiring everything up can be off putting to some people. Using solar Christmas lighting can make this a lot easier. There will be no need for timers, no increase in the electricity bill. There is an array of solar lights for Christmas use around, some of the more common lights effects are rope lights, net lights, solar mini lights, fairy lights and solar string lights. Solar Lights usually use LED bulbs rather than incandescent bulbs, as LED use a lot less power and can run of a solar battery. The only thing to remember with solar Christmas lights is that there is less sunlight around Christmastime, so it is important to put the solar detector in full sun, so it can get as much as possible to light the lights up at night.

Solar Deck Lights

Deck lights allow you to make you outdoor areas bright and safe at night. Using solar lights will mean that you never need to remember to turn the lights on again. The solar lights will come on automatically as it gets dark and provide safe walkways for family and friends. Solar deck lights come in all varieties from pots top lights to lanterns to hang around the porch. With solar lighting you can choose to be one color or many, it is even possible to have subtle color changing lights to keep your lighting ever changing.

Solar Security Lights

These lights can improve your home security. They are easy to install, require little maintenance and if you are using LED bulbs they will last a very long time. There are two type of security lighting that is solar powered.-halogen or LED. The halogen units usually have a larger lead acid battery to power the lights. The LED versions require less power and have smaller and cheaper batteries. The detector is usually on a very long lead to enable it to be placed in a good position for the sun. These lights are so easy to install as there is no connection to the household power supply.

Solar Camping Lights

Solar is so versatile for camping. You can set your camp up anywhere, set up the solar panel, go and enjoy your and when you come back you have power available for you fridge or tent lights. There are small portable units that you attach to your pack with the detector facing upwards, whilst you are walking or hiking the detector catches the sun and charges the battery. This type of portable light is useful for emergency situations as a torch it can be used during the night and charged up during the day.

Solar Fountain Lights

Using solar power to pump the water for the fountain is not new and it is a great advantage in enabling you to put your fountain wherever it suits and not having to worry about power running through the garden. But you can also use the solar power to run lights to illuminate your fountain at night. It adds to the effect of the water when there are lights in the fountain.

There are many uses for outdoor solar lights in and around your home and garden. Most can be easily installed without the need for a professional to connect the electricity. Solar powered outdoor lights can make your home safer on those evening when you arrive home late and the lights are already on. Solar deck lights that come on gradually as it gets dark can add to the mood of an evening entertaining on the patio. There is a place for outdoor solar lights in your home.