How to repair solar lights

Every outdoor solar light you buy is made with a small photovoltaic panel. This is what will absorb the sun’s rays and generate them into electricity. All the energy that is collected is stored within a small battery bank. Over time we can notice that the light has stopped working. There are ways you can check what the problem could be and how to fix it.

Remove the screws that are under the sunlight. Also remove the screws and glass surrounding the light. This would be a good time for you to clean the glass with some type of glass cleaner or warm soapy water.

Find the batteries under the panel at the top of the unit. You may have to unscrew the cap to access it. Clean the battery ends and terminals. If there is corrosion or rust, you can remove it with sandpaper. Also clean any dirt or bugs inside of it.

Use a battery tester to make sure the batteries are still working. You can also use a voltmeter on the lowest DC setting. If the batteries are fine, you know this is not the problem. The next place to look is the photocell that controls the on/off switch for the light.

Remove pre-existing batteries and replace them with new ones if they are almost depleted. Place the solar light in an area that receives sunlight all day. Leave it there for two or three days to charge the batteries.

Place masking tape or electrical tape over the photocell overnight. If the light still comes on, it may be because you are too close to another light source. Remove that light source and partially remove the tape.

Solar lights should work for many years if you keep them clean and in good repair. This makes solar lights a great option for any outdoor lighting need. Solar lights are not only an inexpensive way to add outdoor lighting, but they are also easy to install and much safer than traditional options. Solar LED options emit much less heat, so they are not likely to cause any fire hazards. Not only that, but since they don’t require electricity, they can be placed in areas where lighting is needed, but an electrical outlet is not available.