Security lights have become an integral factor if you look at the uncertain circumstances happening widely in our neighborhoods.
It provides a complete view of the area, especially in public spaces, so that you can see anyone suspicious moving around your surroundings. Moreover, it clears out any hiding spots around the routes from which pedestrians travel.
With the enhanced concern for the environment and innovation in technology, most people prefer solar security lights over traditional ones. These lights not only illuminate your desired area efficiently, but they also protect the environment by working on solar energy.
In this blog, we'll discuss more perks of solar security lights and top brands.
Why Choose Solar Security Lights?
Nowadays, the inclination towards sustainable and eco-friendly solutions is increasing daily. Solar-powered security lights have become a turning point in changing the way of lighting up public spaces.
Here are a few reasons to pick solar security lights over traditional lighting systems.
Highly Reliable with Low Maintenance
Traditional lights are difficult to maintain and can be expensive to replace, particularly in remote public areas. For this, it has been a drastic hit, having fewer moving components.
Moreover, it doesn't have any dependency on an externally powered grid that adds to its lifespan and decreases maintenance expectations.
Long-term Saving Without Energy Cost
A majority of people are attracted to solar security lights because they operate without any energy cost. Due to their solar-powered capability, these lights store solar energy and convert it into electricity to light up the surroundings after the sun sets.
High-Output LED Fixtures
They can perform better due to high-output LED fixtures. You get better brightness and a more luminous environment without consuming much energy.
Better for the Environment
These lights were designed to consider sustainable resources, making them a conscious choice for our environment. It uses clean and renewable solar energy, reduces fossil fuel dependence, and decreases carbon footprints.
Flexibility for Multiple Needs
You need security for different areas, such as streets, parks, or even outside the porch of your house. The best thing about solar security lights is that they fit every location's requirements. Every component can be adjusted based on your needs.
Ease of Installation
Traditional lighting systems need complex wiring and detailed groundwork. In contrast, these lights can be easily installed with complex trenches or wires. It minimizes any damage to public space during installation.
Top Features to Look for in Solar Security Lights
Many hardware stores and online websites offer various solar security lights with diverse components and features. But are they right for you?
The following are the key features you have to consider when installing them.
Build Quality
When buying security lights, the most critical aspect to consider is the quality, as they are meant for outdoor usage. You should check if the lights are water resistant and the waterproofing is high enough according to your budget.
Since these solar security lights will be exposed to every weather condition, ensure the lights are made of weatherproof material.
Light Intensity
The main purpose of buying a security light is to see in the dark. Most security lights have motion detectors that brighten to the max when motion is detected, and after the certain person is gone, the light returns to normal.
So, look for security lights that illuminate the environment with high intensity to scare away burglars.
Battery Life
For solar-powered security lights, the first thing to consider is that batteries should be replaceable. If the battery is irreplaceable, you'll have to dump it down every time it runs out. Moreover, you should go for the lights that demand high battery capacity as they are more durable but take longer to charge.
Design and Flexibility
Make sure to consider a flexible design structure. If the light tilts, rotates, or adjusts on its own, then it is always a plus. Most people buy panels separately from the lights so they can place panels where sunlight hits more conveniently.
Motion Detection Coverage
Another feature that is always relevant is to determine the coverage for which the motion is detected. On average, motion detection ranges up to 50 feet, but you can always find a unique one extending up to 72 feet, maximizing 120 seconds of brightness if detected illumination.
Best Solar Security Lights for 2024: Our Picks
Now that you know the primary features of top solar security lights, here are some of our best recommendations that you don't want to miss.
eufy Solar Wall Light Cam S120
eufy has introduced a built-in camera in their solar security lights featuring the S120 Solar Wall Light Cam. It is meant for people who are looking to DIY their home-related fixtures. eufy S120 features high-intensity security with 300-lumen outdoor lights and doesn't require any major modification to install.
The security lights are completely solar-powered and record the solar energy up to two hours a day. Its 2K HD camera offers 120° field of view capture, colored night vision, and two-way audio.
Pros
- High-intensity brightness up to 25 feet
- Motion detection
- IP65 waterproof
- 2K HD color night vision
- Compatible with Alexa and the Google Assistant
Cons
- Require ideal placement to work
eufy S330 Floodlight Cam
Another 2K camera by eufy, named the S330 floodlight cam, offers a live stream that captures 130° vertical and 360° horizontal views of your surroundings. These flood lights provide you with three motion detectors: small AI support for human detection, color night vision, and AI lock. eufy S330 features Wi-Fi connectivity, 100 dB siren, two-way audio, and weatherproofing.
Pros
- User-friendly installation guide
- Great picture quality
- One-time purchase
- Expandable local storage
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- Doesn't support Apple HomeKit
HMcity 120 LED Solar Lights
For those who don't like DIY projects but are still looking to add outdoor solar lighting for security, HMcity 120 LED lights are the way forward. These lights operate properly and are 6 feet long, making them the least bright on our list. It has a 270° field of view without getting into any wire complexity.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Adjustable settings
- Three-panel design
- 18-month warranty
Cons
- Motion detection is extremely sensitive
Tuffenough 3000LM LED Security Light
Offering 3000 lumens, Tuffenough has introduced a high-brightness security light with customizable settings according to your needs. It provides you with motion sensor sensitivity so you can easily adjust the gestures that trigger light and brightness. Tuffenough 3000LM offers a wireless remote control with three lighting modes.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Good value
- Durable
- Operate well in bad weather
- Battery or hardwired installation
Cons
- Batteries don't hold their charge
- Brightness level could be improved
Common Questions Answered
Do solar security lights work on cloudy days?
Yes, since solar security systems work to store solar energy that is converted into electricity. Depending on which brand you consider, it functions well in cloudy and ashen skies. eufy S120 Wall Lights offers high efficiency, quality panels and resilience.
How long do the batteries last?
Typically, solar light replaceable batteries last up to 5 years, but LED lights can work for over a decade, so you can replace the batteries when needed.
Can solar security lights replace traditional security lighting?
Yes, these lights have already replaced traditional lights as they are more efficient and eco-friendlier. It uses a clean and convertible energy source and has a rather long battery life. Solar-powered batteries have more brightness, intensity, flexibility and build quality than traditional lights.
User Guide: Maximizing the Performance of Your Solar Security Lights
If you want to get the most out of your solar security lights, then you need to understand every component and the settings to maximize the intensity.
The following are some key components of this system.
Solar Panels
Solar security light systems come with solar panels that have diverse configurations and various wattage rates that reflect how much power they can store and generate under perfect temperatures and sun exposure. It is important to have a 30% to 50% safety margin between energy needs and wattage outputs.
Battery
When the solar energy is captured by solar panels, it gets stored in the battery. It is the responsibility of the power controllers to handle the power load between the panel and battery to avoid overcharge or reverse current flow.
Solar Generators
This system features combined units of panels and batteries with solar generators that secure electricity and serve as regulators. You get the required cables and wiring for solar generators with solar setup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues in Solar Security Light System
If your solar-powered security lights suddenly stop operating, then some initial troubleshooting methods are needed to identify and resolve the issue quickly. Some of these steps are below:
Check Proper Panel Placements – Make sure the solar panels that come with your lights are getting proper sun exposure. If not properly placed under sunlight, then obstacles that may cast shadows or block charging should be removed.
Monitor Solar Panels –Regularly check and remove dirt, dust, or leaves on solar panels that may impact efficiency. Also, ensure the panels are not damaged as it stops them from working properly.
Examine Battery Performance –Keep a consistent track of the condition of your rechargeable batteries. Replace the batteries once they reach the end of their lifespan to make sure they are perfect.
Assess LED Functionality – Examine individual LED bulbs to identify if any one of them doesn't work or is damaged. Change these damaged ones to restore proper brightness.
Ensure Secured Wiring – Repair and replace any broken wiring connections and secure them to avoid corrosion and prevent disruption of the electric flow.
Confirm Proper Sensor Function – Check if the light sensors are uninterrupted and operate properly. Adjust sensitivity settings according to environmental conditions.
Reset or Reboot System – If nothing else works, simply reset the solar light system, which may restore it to its original settings. Turn the lights off, disconnect the batteries, wait for a few seconds, and then reconnect.
Seasonal Adjustments for Optimal Performance
For optimal performance of your solar security lights, it is essential to maintain them with seasonal adjustments. Here's how:
- Replace your old batteries if you detect any decrease in performance. As they work continuously, batteries tend to lose their capacity, affecting durability and intensity.
- Adjust the sensitivity setting from time to time based on environmental factors so that they maximize and minimize light levels according to your surroundings.
- Make sure to conduct maintenance to keep all the components in optimal condition.
- If your light has color temperature adjustment, match it according to the intended use. Use cozy colors for warm temperatures and vibrant colors for cool weather.
- Solar lights should be adequately sealed to prevent any water damage; weatherproof them occasionally or replace the seal frequently.
Conclusion
Solar security lights have become the new innovation in security light systems, offering sustainable and reliable lights to secure your outdoor spaces. It is a budget-friendly choice that avoids any dependence on grid power sources or complex wiring.
Moreover, they have motion sensors, longevity, remote control functions, and efficiency. They provide customized settings for improved security and various adjustments.
eufy security lighting system offers two-in-one functionality of camera options with added lights that offer affordability and reliability.