-
Step 1
Check the solar radiation map on the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy website. This color-coded map shows how much daily solar radiation each part of the country gets per month. If your state is in an orange or yellow zone, you will get the greatest benefits from outdoor solar lighting. If you live in the green areas, there may not be sufficient solar energy each day to keep the batteries in your solar powered outdoor lights charged. If you live in the blue region, solar lighting probably is not a feasible option.
-
Step 2
Perform a survey to see where there are obstacles are on your property. Ensure that there are no objects that will block the solar radiation where you plan to install the solar powered outdoor lighting. If the place where you intended to install the solar lights is in shade for a significant amount of time during the day, find another spot to install them. Use small stakes to mark the places the outdoor solar lights will get the most sunlight.
-
Step 3
Determine which type of solar powered lighting you would like to buy. There are outdoor solar lights that attach to posts that you push into the ground, and there are solar lights that you attach to the eaves of your house. The post-type solar lights are easier to install, but the lights which attach to the eaves will provide better nighttime illumination and security.
-
Step 4
Use a tape measure to measure the area where you wish to install solar powered post lights along the path in front of your house. Also measure where you would like to place solar post lights along your landscaping. Move the small stakes so that they're spaced exactly the same distance from one another. For example, if your walkway is ten feet long and you have ten solar post lights, space them exactly two feet apart. Simply remove the stakes and drive the solar light posts into the ground in their place.
-
Step 5
Measure the area where you would like to install solar powered outdoor lighting on the eaves of your roof. Measure the length of the wire that goes from the solar panel to the lights if you are using the type of outdoor solar lighting that installs on the eaves. Drill pilot holes before inserting the screws. Use a power drill with a screwdriver head or an electric screwdriver to insert the screws in place. Place the solar panel where it will get direct sunlight all day long, within the limits of the wire which leads to the lights. Roll up the excess wire and fasten it with a cable fastener. Use a staple gun to staple the cable fastener underneath the eaves where the wire will not be exposed to sunlight and rain. Place the solar LED lights where they will provide the most lighting coverage for your home.
Comments
nanamusicgirl said
on 9/4/2009 This is a great article! Thank you for the information and making us remember the sun is a major source of power for us! These solar lights are also beautiful in the landscape! 5 stars.
susansboneyard said
on 8/14/2009 Well-written article on using solar powered outdoor lighting. It's the only way to go.
gahazeleyes said
on 6/19/2009 Great information. 5*s
xrayness said
on 6/18/2009 Thanks for sharing a great article, Jennifer.
magnadea said
on 6/16/2009 Thank you for reminding people that renewable energy sources, like the sun, are great ways to power up our homes. Nicely written article about how to install solar powered outdoor lighting. Thanks! 5*