How to Purchase Solar Christmas Lights

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By Tidbits .
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Christmas Tree

This holiday season; why not try purchasing a set of outdoor solar Christmas lights to illuminate your home. The outdoor solar lights save money and are environmentally friendly. Before you go out to buy the first see of solar lights you find, take your time to compare the features of each to ensure you’re buying the best set for your needs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Compare the average illumination time. On average the outdoor solar lights will illuminate for about 7 to 8 hours while a few brands tout 12 to 15 hours of illumination time. Keep in mind that illumination time is affected by how fully the solar panel is recharged during the day. An exceptionally cloudy, dark day will reduce the nightly illumination time.
Step 2

Decide whether to purchase steady on or blinking lights. As with traditional Christmas lights, exterior solar lights can blink or remain on. Some offer the ability to switch the lights from steady on to flashing or blink by turning a switch. Before selecting the lights, check to see if the switch is located in a convenient place on the string of lights. Some manufacturers place the switch on the underside of the solar panel.
Step 3

Check the blink rate or twinkle speed. Although this may sound minor, some outdoor Christmas lighting displays synchronize or coordinate the speed at which the lights blink or twinkle. If the rate of blink speed is important, it’s best to “try before you buy.” If you cannot try them first, make sure you are fully aware of the return policy for the exterior solar lights.
Step 4

Evaluate the battery requirements. While you won’t have to use electricity, many of the exterior solar lights require batteries. Christmas lights are no different. Determine what type of batteries the lights use. Some use permanent non-rechargeable lithium batteries, while others use replaceable, rechargeable batteries (usually AA). If you live in an area where the sun isn’t strong year-round, replaceable, rechargeable batteries may work best.
Step 5

Review the strand length. Solar Christmas lights, just like traditional lights come in varying strand length. Compare the strand length, number of lights to ensure it is adequate for your needs.
Step 6

Compare the cost. Outdoor solar lights costs more than the traditional electric powered Christmas lights because of their self-contained energy efficient nature. However, they do pay for themselves in the long run