Solar Deck Lighting: Decorative and Fun

Solar deck lighting is an energy efficient method of providing accent and safety for any outdoor deck location. These lights rely on energy derived from sunlight to charge batteries through miniature solar photovoltaic (PV) cells located on top the lights. This eliminates the need for installing unsightly electrical wires or cables around a deck. Also, these are ideal for existing decks to keep from disturbing the deck to install electrical wiring.

Solar lights can be used in a variety of situations and locations on a deck, for example:

• Deck Lamp Posts




• Deck Post Lights




• Deck Spot Lights




• Deck Bar Lights




• Deck Steps




• Pool Deck Lighting




• Deck Lighting




• Motion Sensor Deck Lighting




• And More

Solar lights have the advantage easy installation anywhere they are needed. They can by just be attached to the deck in any desired location. An important point to remember when placing these lights in the desired location is to ensure they receive direct sunlight on the PV cell for charging the batteries.

The disadvantage with these lights is that their tops must have direct sunlight to the solar PV cells to fully recharge their batteries, because this is where the PV cell is located. Indirect sunlight will charge the nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries, however the charge will not last long. If the desired use for solar lights on decks which have trees or the home blocking direct sunlight, then traditional electrical outdoor lighting is required.

There is no cost to operate solar deck lighting. However one drawback for solar lights is that they do not produce enough light for security lighting or bright lights. They only produce enough light for someone to see steps and other features of a deck.

The rechargeable nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries will produce enough power to light solar deck lights for approximately 14 hours when full charged. Typical light times actually run 10 to 12 hours and 5 to 6 hours in the winter.

Solar deck lighting works effectively anywhere; however it is important to remember these lights require direct sunlight all or most of the day. Indirect sunlight will charge the NiCad batteries, however the charge will not last long.

Another advantage of adding solar deck lighting for safety and accent is that it can increase the value of a home. Many people deciding to purchase a home will visit in the day and night time to get a feel for the neighborhood. When they see a beautifully accented deck with solar lighting, they are more inclined to purchase the home.