Solar lights have a solar cell that converts sunlight into electricity. This electricity is then used to recharge the batteries each day. A photo-cell sensor automatically turns the solar light on at night. The photo-cell sensor will not turn the light on if there is an additional light source reflecting on it within 12 feet.
Solar lighting is safe and environmentally friendly since they do not require an external power supply. Wiring is not required, so there is no cost to run the solar cap and installation is very easy. Solar lighting is very suitable for remote areas and location near water, such as pools or docks.
Run time is based on the season and location. Northern climates will have a run time during the summer months of 8-12 hours, and 4-6 hours during the winter months. Southern climates will have a run time during summer months of 8-12 hours and 6-8 hours during winter months. The solar post lights need direct sunlight to charge the battery/ batteries. Mounting under trees, under eves, etc., will inhibit the ability to charge the unit.
The most common issue is the battery. It could take up to two weeks for a new solar unit to cycle to full capacity. Winter months will effect this cycle time as well, if installed in the middle of winter. To test a solar unit remove the Ni-MH batteries, and install two size AA alkaline batteries. Cover the entire solar collector to test the unit. If the unit lights up, replace the Ni-MH batteries. Do not leave alkaline batteries in the unit.
The solar post cap light provides an ambient, non-task-oriented light. The brightness of the LED solar lights are not indicated in terms of watts. The measurement of it is mcd (millicandelas candle light). Solar lighting has become much more reliable and efficient over the years. But it is especially important to note that this product is usually used for accent or decorative lighting.
The LED bulbs are part of the whole solar cell component and are not designed to be replaced. The LED bulbs have an average life of 15 years, with a normal usage of 6-8 hours per day.
The rechargeable batteries should last approximately one year.
Rechargeable batteries have been supplied with our Solar Lighting.Occasionally the batteries will drain prior to initial use. If this occurs, the Solar Light should be placed in direct sunlight for a minimum of 8-16 hours to fully charge the batteries.
If the rechargeable batteries provided will no longer recharge, they can be replaced with any AA rechargeable batteries. The life depends on the quality of the batteries purchased.
No, the solar post cap light is designed to be used with rechargeable batteries. If regular batteries are used in the sun, they will destroy the solar collector.
To attach the solar post cap light to a post, two stainless steel mounting screws are supplied. You may also apply an exterior-grade construction adhesive to the inside edge of the molding at the bottom of the light, and then place the light firmly onto the post. Some of our solar post lights are designed using a compression fit so mounting screws are not necessary. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.
Your solar post cap light will need a full 8 hours of sunlight. If your solar light has an auto/off switch it is quickest to fully charge the light in the OFF position. Once the batteries are fully charged, you can leave the switch in the ON position. The solar collector will charge the batteries during the daylight hours, and the batteries will power the light during darkness. If your light dims, try recharging the batteries again by giving the light 8-16 hours of sunlight with the switch in the OFF position.
Periodically clean the light fixture with a soft cloth and warm soapy water, wiping the solar panel to keep it free of dust, dirt, debris, or snow to allow the batteries to charge properly for optimum performance.
