Do solar string lights really work?

Solar string lights have become increasingly popular in recent years as an eco-friendly outdoor lighting option. These lights consist of mini solar panels connected to LED bulbs on a wire. The solar panels charge during the day, storing energy to illuminate the LED lights at night. But do solar string lights actually work well enough to provide sufficient outdoor lighting? Here we’ll examine how solar string lights function, their pros and cons, and what to look for when purchasing solar powered string lights.

How do solar string lights work?

Solar string lights work by converting solar energy from the sun into electricity that is stored in built-in lithium batteries located in the solar panel enclosure. Inside each solar panel are several silicon photovoltaic cells that generate a flow of electrons when exposed to sunlight. The electrical current is conducted through the connecting wire to power each of the LED bulbs spaced along the string light wire. During the day, the solar cells charge the batteries so the lights can shine at night. Once the sun goes down, the LED bulbs automatically turn on via a built-in photosensor that detects when it’s dark. They’ll continue to illuminate for 6-12 hours, depending on the battery capacity.

Key components of solar string lights:

Solar panel – Contains the photovoltaic silicon cells that absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. Larger solar panels with more silicon cells can produce more power.

Rechargeable lithium battery – Stores the generated electricity so the lights can operate at night. Higher capacity batteries last longer per charge.
LED bulbs – Illuminate along the string light wire. LEDs use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Photosensor – Detects when it’s dark and automatically turns the lights on.

Controller box – Regulates the flow of electricity between the solar panel, batteries, and LED bulbs.

During the day, the solar cells actively convert sunlight into electricity to charge the batteries. At night, the batteries discharge power to illuminate the LEDs along the string light wire. Once the batteries deplete fully, the lights will turn off until they recharge again the next day.

The pros and cons of solar string lights

Here are some key benefits and drawbacks to consider with solar powered string lights:

Pros:

Eco-friendly – They use renewable solar energy instead of electricity from the grid.
Energy efficient – LED bulbs consume very little power compared to incandescent.
Cost effective – No wiring or electricity costs after the initial purchase.

Convenient – Easy installation without connecting to an electrical outlet.
Portable – Can be used in remote outdoor locations thanks to self-contained solar power.
Weatherproof – Durable for outdoor use.

Independent operation – Automatically turn on and off each day/night.

Cons:

Limited brightness – The LEDs may not be bright enough to thoroughly light up a large area.
Weather dependent – Cloudy weather can limit solar charging capabilities.

Nighttime duration – Most can only run 6-12 hours per night before needing to recharge.
Bulb burnout – Difficult to replace burnt out bulbs along a sealed string light.
Batteries wear out – Lithium batteries capacity diminishes over time.

What to look for when buying solar string lights

Here are the key factors to consider when selecting solar string lights:

Solar panel size

The larger the solar panel, the more sunlight it can absorb and convert into electricity. Lights with smaller 1.5-2 inch solar panels will not produce as much charge as larger 4-5 inch panels. Make sure the panel is efficient, well-made, and weatherproof.

LED bulb brightness

Check the lumen output of the LED bulbs. Most solar string lights range from 20-60 lumens per bulb. More lumens equals greater brightness.

LED bulb quantity

The number of LED bulbs on a string will determine the length of lights and overall illumination. Strings range from 25 to over 100 LED bulbs in length.

Battery capacity

Higher mAh (milliampere hour) rating on the built-in lithium battery indicates longer runtime at night. Typical batteries range from 500mAh to 1200mAh. Bigger capacity lasts longer.

Durability

Ensure the lights have thick protective casing and weatherproofing for outdoor use. Look for quality materials resistant to humidity and temperature extremes.

Timer and modes

Many solar string lights include settings like auto on/off timers and decorative lighting modes like flashing, fading, and color changing effects.

Warranty

A 1+ year warranty provides assurance of quality and coverage in case of premature failure.

Reputation

Buy from a reputable brand known for durable outdoor solar lighting products.

Price

Solar string lights range widely in price from $10 to $50 or more depending on features, length, and quality. In general, you get what you pay for.

How bright are solar string lights?

One common concern with solar string lights is whether they produce enough illumination to actually light up an outdoor space at night. The short answer – it depends!

There are many variables that determine the brightness of solar string lights:

Individual LED bulb brightness – Measured in lumens. Typically 20-60 lumens per bulb.
Total number of bulbs – More bulbs equals more overall brightness.
Solar charging time – Full sunlight all day will produce the maximum illumination at night.

Battery capacity – Higher mAh batteries can power LEDs at full brightness longer.
Proximity to the lights – Brightness diminishes with distance due to light spread.

For frame of reference, a 40W incandescent bulb equals about 450 lumens. So 50 solar-powered LEDs at 30 lumens per bulb would produce about the same 1,500 lumen brightness. Solar string lights are better for accenting trees, pathways, and decorations rather than fully lighting up a large garden or patio. Strategic placement is key.

Tips for maximizing solar string light brightness:

Buy lights with the highest lumen LEDs in your budget.
Get a string light with at least 50+ LED bulbs.
Ensure the solar panels get full, unobstructed sun during the day.

Install the lights as close as possible where you need the illumination.
Replace lights that are a few years old where battery capacity has declined.

Where to install solar string lights

Here are some ideal places to install solar string lights:

Trees

Wrapping string lights around tree branches creates a beautiful glow in your yard. Just ensure the solar panels get sunlight penetration during the day.

Patios

Line your patio cover or pergola with string lights to provide light for evening meals and social gatherings.

Garden paths

Border pathways and sidewalks to serve as luminous guidance and decoration at night.

Flower beds

Outline flower beds and landscaping with string lights for dramatic nighttime illumination.

Decks

Accent the railings of ground level and elevated decks with solar lights.

Porches

Brighten up and decorate covered porches without needing to connect to electrical outlets.

Steps

Line steps and staircases to improve night visibility and prevent slips and falls.

Driveways

Run string lights along driveways to help guide the path in darkness.

Campsites

Illuminate campsites and temporary outdoor living spaces off the grid.

Special events

Decorate for garden parties, weddings, birthdays, and holidays without electrical cords.

How to install solar string lights

Installing solar string lights is relatively straightforward. Here are some tips for getting them properly set up:

Select the ideal location with maximum sun exposure for the solar panels during the day.

Plan the light layout. Measure the string length to determine spacing.
Clean installation surfaces thoroughly removing dirt, grease, etc.
For trees – carefully wind lights around branches without damaging the bark.

For structures – mount solar panel to a vertical surface oriented south if possible.
Use plastic quick-clip fasteners, loops, hooks, zip ties, or small nails to affix lights in place.
Make sure wiring is kept neat and secure. Do not wrap lights too tight around tree trunks.

Position solar panel(s) optimally angled pointing south to receive peak sun exposure.
Consider elevating panels on mounts for improved sun absorption if needed.
Keep lights switched on during the day for 2 bright nights as initial full charge cycle.

Take care not to excessively bend or twist the light wiring which could damage circuits. Extend lights to their full measured length to prevent undue strain. Adjust lighting extensions and solar panel positions over time as needed to account for tree/plant growth or other environmental factors impacting charging efficiency.

How to use solar string lights effectively

Here are some tips for using solar string lights effectively:

Fully charge lights in direct sun for 1-2 days upon first installation.

Switch lights on during the day to charge. Turn off at night to conserve battery.
Supplement with occasional indoor USB charging if sun exposure is poor.
Wipe off solar panels periodically to clear dust buildup blocking sun absorption.

Prune leaves, branches, or obstructions limiting solar panel sunlight.
Angle panels properly pointing south. Adjust seasonally as sun position shifts.
Take lights indoors during extreme weather or winter months if needed.

Replace rechargeable batteries every 2-3 years when capacity diminishes.
Swap out individual LED bulbs as they burn out to maintain lighting integrity.
Consider timers or photosensors to automatically control when lights turn on/off.

Following these solar string light best practices will help maximize their effectiveness and lifespan. Proper charging, positioning, maintenance, and component replacement as needed are key.

Conclusion

Solar string lights provide a versatile, eco-friendly outdoor lighting solution. While they may not illuminate as brightly as hardwired electrical lights, they produce a charming glow perfect for accenting gardens, patios, walkways, and decorations when thoughtfully installed and cared for. Factors like solar panel efficiency, battery capacity, and LED bulb brightness determine how well they will light up at night. Follow the charging, placement, and usage recommendations outlined here to get the most out of your solar powered string lights for years to come.