Solar-powered lighting is a popular choice for illuminating outdoor spaces. Not only are solar deck lights easier to install than hard-wired low-voltage lights, but they also help reduce operating costs by not using household electricity. Whether you want to add ambiance or improve safety, solar deck lights are a DIY-friendly and versatile option.
Why Choose Solar Deck Lighting?
The beauty of solar deck lighting lies in its simplicity. Unlike wired lights, solar lighting is untethered by wires, transformers, or electrical outlets. This means you can install them quickly and easily, even in the most remote locations. It's a cost-effective solution for areas where wiring is expensive or impractical. With just a few screws, you can instantly improve safety and enjoy your deck for longer. Additionally, many homeowners prefer solar lights for their ecological benefits.
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Factors to Consider
Before installing solar deck lighting, there are a few factors to consider.
Sun Exposure
Solar lights work best when they receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight for battery charging. If your deck is shaded or doesn't receive enough sunlight, low-voltage or conventional lighting might be a better option. It's also important to consider the seasonality of sunlight, especially in northern climates where winter days are shorter and less intense. In such cases, the batteries in solar fixtures might not recharge enough to keep the lights bright throughout the night.
Brightness
While solar technology has come a long way, it's important to note that solar fixtures won't glow as brightly or reliably as hard-wired ones. Solar lights are typically used for accent lighting rather than fully illuminating the entire deck. To achieve the desired effect, it's recommended to combine bright post-cap lights (15-20 lumens) with dimmer rail-mounted lights (5-10 lumens).
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Cost and Maintenance
Solar light fixtures have become more affordable and are often less expensive to purchase and install than traditional low-voltage lighting. If you assume a 10-year service life for solar-powered lights, the operating costs are also competitive with electrical lights. To get the best value, look for solar deck lights with replaceable batteries. This way, you can simply replace the batteries every two to three years instead of disposing of the entire fixture. Solar deck lights require minimal maintenance, with occasional cleaning of the solar panels using mild soap and water. Trimming back overgrown plants to ensure adequate sunlight is also necessary.
Installing Different Types of Solar Deck Lighting
Once you've determined the location, installing solar deck lights is a straightforward process.
Installing Solar Deck Post Cap Lights
For post cap lights, ensure the caps fit over the posts, which are typically 4x4 or 6x6 inches. If there's too much space, use an adaptor as needed. Remove the top of the fixture and attach the base to the post using screws or adhesive. Install the battery, turn the light's switch to "on," give the battery a full charge, reassemble the fixture, and snap it into the base.
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Installing Solar Deck Railing Lights
Unlike wired lights, solar deck railing lights cannot be hidden under the railing since they need sun exposure. These wedge- or L-shaped fixtures are typically mounted on the top or side of the railing, with the solar panel facing upward and the light shining down. Some designs utilize clips to attach the light fixture to the vertical balusters.
Installing Solar Lights on Deck Stairs
Similar to railing lights, solar lights for deck stairs need to shine down while the photocell points skyward. Install these fixtures on the stair risers if your deck has them or to the bottom section of the handrail. Stair-mounted light fixtures resemble wedge-style railing lights but are usually smaller in size.
To find solar deck lighting, use the Decks.com Find a Retailer tool to locate nearby retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are solar deck lights as bright as wired lights?
A: Solar lights are typically used for accent lighting and won't glow as brightly or reliably as hard-wired lights. However, by combining different fixture types with varying levels of brightness, you can achieve the desired effect on your deck.
Q: How long do the batteries in solar deck lights last?
A: Expect to replace the batteries in solar deck lights every two to three years. To get the best value, look for lights with replaceable batteries.
Q: How do I maintain solar deck lights?
A: Solar deck lights require minimal maintenance. Clean the solar panels occasionally with mild soap and water. Trim back overgrown plants that might obstruct sunlight from reaching the panels.
Q: Can I install solar deck lights in shady areas?
A: Solar lights work best when they receive direct sunlight for at least six to eight hours a day. If your deck is predominantly shaded, low-voltage or conventional lighting might be a more suitable choice.
Q: Are solar deck lights cost-effective?
A: Solar deck lights have become more affordable and are often less expensive to purchase and install than traditional low-voltage lighting. Additionally, the operating costs are competitive if you assume a 10-year service life for the solar-powered lights.