Choosing solar lighting for your outdoor space

Start with the part of the space you want to light.

For an entrance, you may want a visible, welcoming point of light on each side. For a path, think about the route people actually follow. For a larger open area, consider where supports can be positioned and which parts need useful illumination.

A wall-top light and a street-light fitting are different starting points. Their proportions, mounting arrangements and light distribution are not interchangeable. Sketch the area and mark entrances, steps, planting, seating and proposed mounting points. This is more useful than choosing the product with the largest wattage in its name.

Find the sunlight, as well as the right view.

A solar light’s panel needs access to daylight to replenish its battery. Check the proposed position at different times of day. A spot that looks bright at lunchtime may sit behind a tree, wall or roof overhang for much of the day.

Available solar energy changes with the season, weather, location and surrounding landscape. Winter performance can therefore differ from summer performance. Where a model has a separate panel, check its permitted positioning and cable arrangement; where the panel is integrated, the whole fitting must suit the sunlit position.

Keep photographs of the intended location and note when it is shaded. If several lights are planned, check every position separately.

Decide how it should behave after dark.

Do you want a decorative evening glow, motion-triggered light at an entrance, or illumination for a larger area? Compare the listed modes, sensor function and controls. Being solar-powered does not automatically mean a product has a sensor, a remote control or selectable brightness.

Treat any stated operating time as a figure to read alongside its charging and test conditions. Battery size, the selected mode and the charge available at sunset all matter. If dependable lighting throughout a particular period is essential, discuss the site and expected use before choosing the model.

Two different starting points from the collection.

KBA781 — wall-top lighting. A compact, architectural shape for a wall-top setting. The listed dimensions are 150 × 150 × 190 mm. Its product information specifies solar operation and remote control; compare the available light settings with the atmosphere you want at the entrance.

KST233 — solar street lighting. A different scale and purpose, with a black housing, radar sensing and remote control listed for the model. Its stated dimensions are 342 × 760 mm. Use the mounting and technical details to assess the proposed support; dimensions or a catalogue power label alone do not establish the area it will illuminate.

Check the setting, mounting and maintenance.

Both examples list IP65, but the protection rating is only one part of choosing an outdoor fitting. Follow the model’s instructions for installation and exposure, and check the condition of the mounting surface. Do not assume that an outdoor rating permits submersion or every cleaning method.

• Location: useful sunlight, the area to illuminate and nearby windows.
• Mounting: compatible support, suitable fixings and access for installation.
• Operation: the required light colour, controls and sensor behaviour.
• Upkeep: access to inspect and clean the panel as the manufacturer directs.

For a multi-light project, send our team the site dimensions, photographs and intended operating hours. Explore solar lighting, or contact us with your shortlist.

Further reading

For background on location, season and the solar resource, see the US Department of Energy’s Solar Radiation Basics. Product features and installation requirements should always be checked against the specific model.