Isn’t it frustrating when electronics, especially lights, don’t work quite as well as they used to when you first bought them? And while we agree that most times it’s the quality of the lights, sometimes a little maintenance can reverse the slow deterioration you’ve been experiencing.
Fortunately, with our simple tips, you can maintain the brightness of your LED solar lights for signs and keep them shining brightly for years to come.
How Solar Lights For Signs Work (And What Can Go Wrong)
Solar lights use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity, which is stored in a battery. When it gets dark, a photoresistor tells the light to turn on, and the electricity from the battery powers an LED bulb. This system is energy-efficient and convenient because it only turns on when needed. Solar lights for signs are also safe and weatherproof, making them an excellent choice for outdoor lighting.
However, like any other electronic device, solar lights can experience problems or failures over time.
Common Issues That May Result In Dimmer LED Lights
Battery Problems: Solar lights rely on rechargeable batteries to store the energy collected during the day. If the battery is old or faulty, it may not hold a charge, resulting in dimmer light output or the light not turning on at all.
Panel Obstructions: Solar panels can get dirty over time, reducing their ability to collect sunlight and generate electricity. Obstructions can include dirt, dust, leaves, snow, or even bird droppings.
Wiring Issues: Solar lights are often exposed to harsh outdoor conditions and may experience wiring problems over time. Loose or corroded connections, frayed wires, or damaged cabling can prevent the light from functioning correctly.
LED Problems: Although LED bulbs are long-lasting and durable, they can still burn out or malfunction.
Water Damage: Solar road markers and signs are designed to be weather-resistant, but exposure to heavy rain or flooding can damage the internal components and prevent the light from functioning correctly.
Tips To Maintain LED Brightness In Solar Lights For Signs
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your solar lights remain bright and functional, providing efficient and sustainable lighting for your outdoor space.
Clean the Solar Panels: To ensure your solar panels collect as much sunlight as possible, clean them regularly with a damp cloth or sponge. A mild detergent solution to remove dirt and grime is advised if the panels are very dirty. Avoid using abrasive materials or chemicals that could scratch or damage the solar panel’s surface.
Adjust the Angle: Depending on your solar lights’ design, you may be able to adjust the solar panel’s angle to optimise the sunlight it receives. Positioning the solar panel facing south in the correct direction can maximise exposure to sunlight.
Replace Batteries: If your solar lighting system is old, the batteries will probably not hold a charge. If they can’t provide enough power to the LED bulb, you’ll experience reduced brightness. Replace the batteries every two to three years (if you haven’t already) to maintain optimal performance.
Closing Thoughts
Maintaining the brightness of your LED solar lights for signs requires some effort and attention to detail. Still, it is worth it as you can save a significant sum on electricity bills, among other benefits. By following our suggestions outlined above, you can ensure that your LED solar lights remain bright, efficient, and effective for years to c