Solar landscape lights are powered by a photovoltaic cell that is charged during the day. In addition to being self-sufficient, they don’t require any wiring, making them simple to install. All they need is six to eight hours of direct sunlight a day to fully charge.
How to Install Solar Landscape Lighting
Solar landscape lighting looks great and offers you convenient installation without having to worry about wiring. Since solar landscape lights don’t rely on an outlet for power, you can place them anywhere that gets good sunlight during the day.
A quality installation of solar lighting depends on advanced planning:
- Consult the manufacturer’s packaging or website for suggested lighting applications and spacing before you choose your lights.
- Plan your fixture layout carefully. While many solar lights don’t require constant direct sunlight, it is best to place them where they will receive at least six to eight hours per day of bright sunlight. You may also need more lights spaced closely together to illuminate a pathway.
- Be sure to edge your walkway if you are planning for pathway lights or trim back foliage in other areas where you may be planning to add solar landscape lighting. Starting with a clean canvas will ensure nothing shades your lighting plan.
Determine the Layout – Solar Landscape Lighting
- Using a tape measure, layout the lights along the pathway. Be sure your line is no more than 6-inches from the edge of the path or the light may not illuminate it properly at night.
- Temporarily place each light where it will go. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for suggested spacing.
Assemble and Install the Lights – Solar Landscape Lighting
- Remove the cover tag over the solar battery of each light, then put the top of the light back together, if necessary.
- Assemble the lights according to instructions. Usually, this requires placing the light top into the support and then attaching the light stake to the bottom of the support.
- Expose the solar lights to full sun for 12- to 14-hours before starting installation. This will allow the battery to fully charge and uncover any lights that may be defective before you install them.
- If the ground is hard or dry, lightly water the soil along the area there the lights will be installed. Allow the soil to soak for a few hours.
- Once you have the fixtures where you want them, drive their stakes into the ground. Make sure they remain plumb. The lights should install easily. Don’t force the lights into the ground as this might damage the stakes.
Tip: Most solar lights install in generally the same fashion, but you should follow all manufacturer’s instructions for your choice of solar landscape light.
