Solar Garden Lights: How to Choose Them and Where to Put Them

Solar garden lights need no wiring and cost nothing to run, which makes them one of the easiest ways to light a garden, patio or balcony. This guide covers how to choose them and how to get the most light from them.

How solar garden lights work

Each light has a small solar panel, a rechargeable battery and LEDs. The panel charges the battery in daylight. A sensor switches the LEDs on at dusk and off at dawn. How long they stay lit depends on how much light the panel received that day.

Choosing the right type

• Stake lights push into soil and suit borders, flower beds and paths. Firework and dandelion styles have bendable wires you can shape.
• String lights suit fences, pergolas, railings and balconies.
• Hanging lights, such as wind chimes, suit trees, porches and hooks.

Check the number of LEDs, the light colour (warm white, white or multicolour) and the number of lighting modes before you choose.

Where to place them

• Put the solar panel where it gets direct sun for as much of the day as possible. In the UK, a south-facing spot is best.
• Keep panels out of the shade of walls, fences and overhanging plants.
• Keep them away from street lamps and porch lights, which can stop the dusk sensor switching the light on.

Getting more light from them

• Switch the light on and give it a full day in the sun before first use.
• Wipe the panel with a damp cloth every few weeks. Dust and leaves reduce charging.
• Expect shorter running times in winter, when days are short and the sun is low.
• Choose a steady mode over a flashing one if you want the charge to last longer.

A note on weather ratings

Look for the IP rating in the product details. A light rated IP65 is protected against rain and water jets, but it should not be left sitting in standing water or submerged.

Browse our Garden & Outdoor collection for solar stake lights, string lights and outdoor lighting, including the Solar Dandelion Garden Light and Solar Crystal Globe String Lights.