Do Solar Lights Work All Year?
Written by: Alex Levett
A garden staple, solar lights are a convenient, cost-effective, and sustainable lighting solution. Known for their reliance on sunlight, however, many question solar lights’ year-round capabilities, wondering whether they can survive the torrential rain and shine on those duller winter days.
In this guide, Lights4fun will break down whether solar lights can work all year, answering all of the questions surrounding their year-round performance.
The Quick Answer: Yes
Most solar lights are designed with the elements in mind. They’re created for their functionality, practicality, and convenience, so it’s important that they’re long lasting and capable of performing throughout the year. Let’s discuss the different things worth looking out for when shopping for high-quality, durable solar lights.
What is an IP Rating?
An IP rating indicates whether an electrical enclosure can resist intrusion from both solid objects and liquids. It is made up of a two-digit code that is defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
What Else Makes a Solar Light Durable?
In addition to a solar light’s IP rating, there are a number of other things that make a solar light durable:
- Solar panel quality: High-efficiency monocrystalline panels are far more durable than thin-film panels.
- Casing materials: Materials like powder-coated aluminium, stainless steel, or UV-stabilised plastics prevent rusting, warping, and cracking caused by frost or sunlight.
Can Solar Lights Survive Rain?
So, are outdoor solar lights waterproof? Absolutely. Solar lights are designed to be water-resistant, with an IP44 rating or higher. It’s important to note, however, that water-resistant is different from waterproof. Solar lights with an IP 44 rating are not submersible. So, if you’re looking for solar lights that can survive in ponds or puddles, you’ll need lights with an IP67 or IP68 rating.
Can Solar Lights Be Left Out in Winter?
Yes, most outdoor solar lights are designed to survive outside year-round. Typically with an IP44, 65, or 67 rating, they are built to survive frost, ice, and sub-zero temperatures without damage.
While solar lights are functional during the darker periods of the year, their performance may be somewhat reduced. Given the lack of sunlight, lower sun angles, and cloud cover, they may not shine for quite as long or quite as bright into the nighttime.
Snow can also affect solar light performance. If you’ve noticed that your solar lights’ performance is reduced, we recommend checking whether snow is covering up your solar panels and limiting their ability to absorb the light.
Can Solar Lights Survive Rain?
So, are outdoor solar lights waterproof? Absolutely. Solar lights are designed to be water-resistant, with an IP44 rating or higher. It’s important to note, however, that water-resistant is different from waterproof. Solar lights with an IP 44 rating are not submersible. So, if you’re looking for solar lights that can survive in ponds or puddles, you’ll need lights with an IP67 or IP68 rating.
Can Solar Lights Be Left Out in Winter?
Yes, most outdoor solar lights are designed to survive outside year-round. Typically with an IP44, 65, or 67 rating, they are built to survive frost, ice, and sub-zero temperatures without damage.
While solar lights are functional during the darker periods of the year, their performance may be somewhat reduced. Given the lack of sunlight, lower sun angles, and cloud cover, they may not shine for quite as long or quite as bright into the nighttime.
Snow can also affect solar light performance. If you’ve noticed that your solar lights’ performance is reduced, we recommend checking whether snow is covering up your solar panels and limiting their ability to absorb the light.
What Solar Lights Should You Buy for Your Garden?
Lights4fun’s collection boasts a glowing range of solar lights, each in their own unique styles. We strive to offer designs that complement every home’s aesthetic, so consider some of the following styles:
Shop Lights4fun’s Solar Lights
Illuminate your outside space with Lights4fun’s glowing solar lights. Our collection is made up of a variety of stylish and functional outdoor lights, so discover the perfect, durable lights for your garden online today. Browse the collection and get ready to enjoy later nights on the patio beneath the glow of your lights.
