CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOLAR LIGHTS


		Lisa McCarthy Lisa's Real Estate News and Information!

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOLAR LIGHTS

Solar lights often get a bad rap, with some people experiencing products that fail quickly or don’t provide enough light. However, there are high-quality options out there - if you know what to look for. Here are eight practical tips to help you choose solar lights that will stand the test of time.

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CHECK THE IP RATING
IP ratings tell you how well a product can resist water and dust. For outdoor solar lights, look for a rating of at least IP65 to ensure they can handle rain and splashes. For even tougher conditions, IP66 or IP67 is better, and top-tier lights with an IP68 rating can even be submerged in water.

GET THE RIGHT LUMENS
Lumens measure brightness, so knowing how many you need is key. For decorative lighting, 10-50 lumens is enough. Pathway lights should be around 100-200 lumens, while garden features or patios need 100-300 lumens. For security lights, aim for 700 lumens or more.

CONSIDER KELVIN
Kelvin (K) measures the color temperature of light, influencing its warmth or coolness. The lower the Kelvin, the warmer the light. For a cozy, inviting glow, choose lights in the 2700K-3000K range. Neutral white light (3500K-4500K) is good for practicality, while cool white (5000K-6500K) is ideal for security lighting.

EVALUATE BATTERY CAPACITY
Solar lights vary in how long they run, depending on battery capacity. Higher ampere-hours (Ah) typically mean longer run times, especially in locations with less sun or during the winter months. Look for this rating to ensure your lights stay on as long as you need them.

OPT FOR REPLACEABLE BATTERIES
Many solar lights fail because their batteries wear out. Choosing lights with replaceable batteries can save you money over time and avoid unnecessary waste. It’s a simple way to keep your lights shining longer.

EXPLORE LIGHTING MODES AND COLORS
Lights with different modes and colors offer more flexibility. Whether you want a soft glow for relaxing or vibrant colors for a party, having options makes your lighting more versatile. For security, lights with dim modes that brighten with motion are especially useful.

SEEK OUT GOOD WARRANTIES
Warranties are important, especially with solar lights that can sometimes be hit or miss. Look for lights from sellers that offer at least a one-year warranty. This gives you peace of mind and support if something goes wrong.

READ REVIEWS FOR LONGEVITY
When shopping online, search reviews for mentions of "years" to find out how long the lights last. This quick tip can help you avoid products that fail quickly and find those that are built to last.