Solar Security Light Operates When Power Is Out

One of the advantages of a solar security light is that it will function even when the power is out. This can be plus following natural disasters when some individuals take advantage of the lack of lighting in order to break into home or businesses. The use of a solar security light will illuminate the exterior of a home or business, keeping these people away from the property.

Another advantage is that a solar security light will not increase the home's electric bill and can be left on all night if needed at no cost. After installing the light, the solar panels will charge the unit's battery, typically enough to keep the light burning throughout the night. Some systems use a hybrid system that automatically switches to conventional electricity if the battery goes dead. However, these can be more expensive and are usually not necessary except in areas where sunlight is limited.

Connecting a traditional security light will involve the installation of wiring to the light, along with a switch to turn it on and off. Many will use a photovoltaic cell to turn the light on at dusk and off ay daylight. With a solar security light the same type of cell can be used for on and off options, but there is no wiring to be installed. The unit usually has its battery installed in the light and the photocell is built into the light as well.

Remote Cells Put Light Where It Is Needed

In some installations, the solar security light may be needed in areas that receive little or no sunlight, such as under a roof or overhang. For these areas, the photovoltaic cells can be mounted nearby in direct sunlight during the day with small wires connected to the light to charge the battery during the daylight hours.

If a traditional light was installed in such areas, the photo on and off cell would not work, however with a solar security light, the on and off cell can be moved to a location near the solar panel so the light will work as designed. There are very few times when a security light will be used during the day, so a wired on and off switch will not be necessary.

With the efficiency improving and the cost of solar security lights dropping, the savings on the electric bill can pay for the light in just a short time, depending on the type and size of solar security light installed.