How To Choose The Best Solar
A single doorway doesnt need 2,500 lumens, nor is a single solar-powered flood light sufficient for lighting up a driveway. Before choosing the best solar-powered flood light, consider the following factors:
- Brightness: In general, brighter is better, but if you only need to light a small area, you might not have to fork over the extra cash for a higher-output unit. If you want to cover a large area with a single bright light, go for at least 1,600 lumens. Or, install multiple lights with a smaller output.
- Features: Todays solar-powered flood lights are ripe with features. Most have multiple brightness settings and weatherproofing as standard features, but consider other important elements such as remote controls, adjustable/modular solar panels, tilt and pan adjustments for lights and sensors, and metal constructions. As always, the more features, the higher the price, but the investment will be worth it.
- Durability: All of our picks are waterproof, but you may want a light thats truly built to last. The RuoKid Solar Street Light has an all-metal design and is made to take a beating. Look for weatherproof lights that will hold up through multiple seasons.
- Ease of installation: Compared to their wired counterparts, solar-powered flood lights are a breeze to install. Some require more assembly and mounting than others, so if youre not on friendly terms with your toolbox, pick a solar flood light that requires little more than a screw to install.
Aootek Solar Security Lights
Detect motion from a considerable distance and secure your house and office with a reliable motion sensor light. Check out the spectacular features offered by the Aootek Solar Security Lights to know if theyre the right match for your requirements.
Features
Three Operational Light Modes
Much like any other quality motion sensor light, the Aootek Solar Security Lights come with three different light modes. You can choose to either have the light work when theres motion or have it stay lit at all times. You can even choose a mix of both and get the light to stay lit but get brighter when it senses motion.
Sensitive Motion Detector
Do not worry about the light missing out on minuscule movements. This light comes equipped with a sensitive PIR motion inductor that senses motion at 120o from 26-feet away. However, it will not disturb you by lighting up due to flies and insects.
Efficient Solar Panel and Battery
This solar-powered light comes with a Monocrystalline silicone panel of 1.2W with about a 20.5% conversation rate. Paired with the 2200 mAh battery, this light will hardly ever run out of juice. The solar panel even has a PET lamination that offers maximum energy saving.
Weather Resistant
This solar-powered light is made of high-quality materials and enjoys an IP65 waterproof rating. Therefore, it can stand its own in just about weather conditions be it heat or rain.
Pros:
The 6 Best Motion Solar Lights For Convenience In 2022
Graham Sawrey
We research & test to recommend the best products learn more about our review process here. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn a commission.
If theres one thing that makes you groan first thing in the morning, its finding out you left the porch light on all night.
Great. Money added to your electric bill.
Luckily, theres a solution to your outdoor light woes: motion sensors. Theyll automatically turn on your lights as you approach, so you dont have to worry about those extra few dollars on your next statement.
The best part? The lights we put to the test for this review are 100% solar-powered!
Whether youre using them for aesthetics or security reasons, lights are a very attractive feature for a home.
We did the dirty work of testing out the best motion solar lights so you dont have to do all of the hard work of scouring the web.
Don’t Miss: Is Solar Power Worth It In Michigan
Best Smart: Philips Hue Outdoor Sensor
Amazon
-
Works with existing outdoor light fixtures
-
Integrates well with other smart-home devices
-
Requires Hue bulbs
-
No built-in lighting
The Philips Hue Dusk-to-Dawn motion sensor is a smart motion detector that can turn your existing outdoor light fixtures into motion-controlled lighting. It works by replacing the bulbs in your exterior light fixtures with Hue smart bulbs and then setting up the Philips Hue Dusk-to-Dawn sensor. The smart bulbs will then turn on whenever the Hue sensor detects motion. This system allows you to connect multiple sensors to cover various parts of the exterior of your home, and you can also set the sensors to activate smart outlets and other smart devices.
The downside is that this is just a sensor, not an all-in-one motion-sensing light. This model isnt what youre looking for if you just want to attach a motion-sensing light to your wall and call it a day. However, its an excellent option if youre into smart home gear. It comes with many mounting options, so you can install it flush on a wall, a corner, or even on a freestanding pole, and it allows you to activate any compatible smart lights. With Hue, you can have more than a motion-sensing light for security. You can turn on all outdoor and indoor lights or even activate a smart speaker with a warning message.
Dimensions: 2.2 x 3 x 3 inches | Range: 39 feet | Detection Angle: 160 degrees horizontal / 80 degrees vertical | Wattage: No built-in lighting | Power Source: Battery
Do Solar Lights Work In Every Part Of The Country
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar lights work well in most parts of the United States. As long as the solar panels have access to enough sunlight, the lights will work well. Pay attention to how much sunlight your yard gets during the day, and use that to manage your expectations for how bright the lights will be and how long theyll last into the evening. Youll also want to pay attention to the manufacturers guidelines for water exposure and use in freezing temperatures you may need to bring the lights inside during inclement weather for protection.
Recommended Reading: Can You Self Install Solar Panels
Best Floodlights: Sansi 6000lm Super Bright Led Security Light
Home Depot
-
Enough light to illuminate a yard or driveway
-
Independently adjustable lights
-
Too bright for some applications
The two most important things to look for in a floodlight are brightness and the ability to direct the light exactly where you need it. The SANSI 6000LM Super Bright Security Light puts out an impressive 6,000 lumens, enough to flood your entire yard and driveway with light. It includes two arrays with three super-bright LEDs, and you can position each ray independently. You can rotate the lights up, down, in, or out to cover your property without bothering the neighbors.
This motion-sensing floodlight has a massive detection distance of up to 72 feet, and its able to sense motion in a 180-degree range. It features many adjustment options, including leaving the lights on for between 10 seconds and 10 minutes after each activation. If you need some extra security, the dusk-to-dawn mode keeps the lights on all night. The light also has an IP65 rating, which means its certified to stand up to the heaviest of rains.
Dimensions: 10.2 x 6.1 x 4.8 inches | Range: 72 feet | Detection Angle: 180 degrees | Wattage: 45 watts | Power Source: AC
Biling Solar Security Motion Sensor Lights
Large solar panels and batteries lead to longer battery longevity and security assurance on rainy days. If you live somewhere where the sun can be shy at times, do not consider anything other than the Biling Solar Security Motion Sensor Lights.
Features
Aesthetical Appeal
Sure, these lights are built like most of its competitors. However, the slight change in angle on the sides makes a huge difference. They make the light look more aesthetically pleasing and serve utility functions by increasing the light scattering distance.
Intelligent Light Modes
You can choose between the permanent on mode, motion-sensor triggered security mode or the smart light mode. The latter keeps the light on all night but makes it get brighter for 20 seconds on motion detection. You can even switch between modes according to battery consumption and charge.
Weather Resistance
With an IP65 waterproof rating and smart hear dissipation, these lights can withstand constant hear and rain with the same efficiency. The high-quality ABS plastic is completely weather-proof and will not deplete or yet yellow after months of usage.
Huge Battery
These small lights are equipped with a 2200 mAh battery and a solar panel with 25% extra energy absorption power. Paired with the supreme weather resistance, you can use the light even in places with minimal sun exposure, such as backyards and patios.
Pros:
You May Like: How Many People Have Solar Panels
What Purpose Is It Serving
Is this for style or security? General ambiance or practicality and personal safety?
Those are the types of questions you need to ask when youre deciding the purpose.
High luminous lighting is impressive engineering, sure, but is it going to blind the unsuspecting guest or pizza delivery guy?
Also, within these categories, theres nuance. Security could mean different things to different people.
You might not want a giant spotlight flooding through your window at night, but for others, that momentary stunning of an intruder or chasing away the normal garbage pest is imperative.
Also, ornamental lighting can mean different things. Some want a softer light than others or want different settings of light effect or tone.
Really look into the appearance of the light and what others are saying about it. It might not live up to the hype.
Read our related article on the Best Solar Spotlights for your landscape and home!
To Waterproof Or Not To Waterproof
This globe lamp from West Elm is perfect for your outdoor seating areas.
The biggest difference between having a lamp inside your home versus outside is finding one that can withstand the elements. Sure, if youre desperate for lighting you could bring a table lamp outside, but that could end in disaster if it starts to sprinkle outside.
Outdoor lamps are made specifically to withstand the elements and be waterproof. Some are more weather resistant than others so read their listings carefully.
Products should state if theyre waterproof, but you may also see descriptions like wet-rated, like youll find on this West Elm Outdoor Globe lamp. This means the lamp can be exposed to direct water. However, if you see an outdoor lighting fixture rated as damp-rated steer clear as this means it can only handle indirect water and wont survive getting stuck in the rain.
You May Like: Are Sole Proprietors Required To Have Workers Comp
Don’t Miss: Led String Lights Outdoor Solar
Outdoor Motion Detector Lights
Law enforcement officials agree: a well-lit property is critical in keeping would-be burglars away. Outdoor motion detector lights are triggered to turn on when they sense movement, providing illumination when you need it without wasting energy all night long. Choose energy-sipping outdoor LED flood lights for extra efficiency, or go with a solar motion sensor light and enjoy all the security benefits without the need for an external power source.
Aside from acting as a deterrent, motion sensor outdoor lights are helpful too. Place them near gates, back doors and other spaces that may need extra light when you access them after dark. To learn more about outdoor lights please visit our online resource How to Buy Outdoor Lighting Planning and Design Tips. Browse our selection for a full range of options and decorative styles and enjoy free shipping on every item.
Dont Miss: How To Create Solar Power
Features To Look For In Solar Powered Security Lights
Competing companies always create products with similar features and utilities. However, there is a reason why some products stand out. That is because they might not have fancy features, but they serve their purpose well. But how will you know that about a light?
Consider the following things in the solar-powered motion security lights you have shortlisted to make the right purchase.
Weather Resistance
What use is an outdoor light of it cannot withstand hard weather conditions? Make sure that the light you choose to buy has at least an IP65 waterproof rating. The light should also be made of heat-resistant, corrosion-resistance, and heat-dissipating materials. Choosing a light that can withstand high wind and slight impact is the best way to go.
Motion Sensor Range
Most motion sensors can detect motion at a 120o angle from a distance of about 20 feet. It is the minimum that you should opt for. The better the sensor will be, the more the light will be effective, and the further it will sense motion.
Solar Panel
The light you are considering should have an effective and powerful solar panel. Only the best light comes with monocrystalline silicon solar cells that are obviously better at absorbing solar energy. If the light has a good solar panel, it will get charged quicker and with less sunlight than others.
Battery
Brightness
Durability
Don’t Miss: How Much Does Solar Cost In Az
Top 10 Solar Powered Lights For Outdoors 2022
Our reviewers come from a variety of backgrounds including professional guides, outdoor enthusiasts, and even some former military personnel.
We provide reviews for the Solar powered lights for outdoors in 2022 that we think you might be interested in. These reviews are clear, straightforward, and focus on providing the information you want about products you’re likely to care about.
- High Efficient Solar Panel Our solar Panel is energy saving and with PET laminated solar panel and LED lights, which is up to 20. 5% Conversion Rate with 1. 2W Monocrystalline silicon .
- Three Optional Modes 1.security light mode 2.Permanent On all night mode 3.Smart brightness control mode
- High-efficient LED lights with wide-angle illumination can improve the lighting utilization.
- Rechargeable battery. No electricity cost. Provide safe lighting and elegant decoration for your stairs, deck, railing, steps, and more.
- Come with screws and sticky tapes. No wiring required. Simple installation, done in less than 1 minute.
- Each LED solar light provides 3 lumens warm white lighting. 16 Pack is enough to illuminate your deck, fence or stairs.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sunforce Triple Head Flood Light: Easy Installation
When you look at the Sunforce Flood Light, it’s obvious this security light means business. Nothing hiding in the dark stands a chance against its 150 LEDs pumping out 1,000 lumens of blinding light.
Being fully weatherproof, you can easily mount it pretty much anywhere. We like that you can tweak the angle of each panel to cover the specific area you want and that you can adjust the sensitivity of the motion sensorbut we’ve found that the motion sensor isn’t as responsive as other lights on the market.
Because the Sunforce’s light is separate from its solar panel, you can “stick it where the sun don’t shine,” like under the carport, and use the included nine-foot wire to place the solar panel on the roof. The Sunforce flood light doesn’t have many lighting settings like the Litom, but you can decide how long the light stays on after being triggered.
Read Also: What Are The Negatives Of Solar Energy
Why Does A Solar Light Have A Battery
As the light’s solar panel sucks up energy from the sun, it has to have somewhere to store it until it gets dark, so solar lights use a rechargeable battery to bank the energy.
But just like the rechargeable battery in your phone, over time the battery in your solar light will start to deteriorate and not hold a charge very well.
If you notice that your solar light isn’t staying on as long as it used to, trying putting in a fresh battery. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you get the right battery for your light.
The Best Solar Lights You Can Buy Today
Want to make your patio look like an outdoor bistro or Italian cafe? Brightechâs solar-powered string lights will do the trick. This string of LED bulbs are designed to look like retro Edison-style lights, which will cast a warm, gentle glow on your deck in the evening. The bulbs are made of shatterproof plastic, and are designed to withstand winds up to 50 miles per hour, as well as rain, snow, and temperatures up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. When put to the test, these lights delivered in every respect here enduring two severe rainstorms, one tropical storm, heavy rainfall in a shower and four hours in the freezer, with no sign of damage.
The 12 Brightech Ambience Pro lights are connected on a 27-foot cord, with 20 inches between each light. . At the end is a solar panel, which can be clipped to a railing or some other platform, or staked into the ground. Thereâs no ambient light sensor, but the lights last for up to six hours on a full charge. The lights also come with a 3-year warranty.
These small flat disks lie flush with the ground, and provide accent lighting for garden beds and walkways. Each Aogist Solar Ground Light has a small 600 mAh battery that can provide illumination for up to eight hours. When we tested these solar lights, one didnt work straight out of the box, which seems like an issue with quality control, but the other seven functioned effectively.
These lights are $30 apiece, but youâll also need the Ring Bridge to use them.
Read Also: Solar Lights 6×6 Post Caps
