How to Fix Outdoor Solar Lights That Stop Working

Solar lights can be fixed if they no longer work correctly.

Solar lights are a popular addition for use as garden lights that line walkways and flower beds. Not only do they provide light on dark nights, but they provide a beautiful ambiance and improve the look of your home and landscaping. They are virtually maintenance free as they use the suns light to recharge the interior battery. However, there may come a time when the solar lights no longer work effectively. They may show less and less lighting time at night, or they may suddenly no longer work at all. In many cases, you will be able to fix a solar light that stops working.

Things You'll Need

• Rechargeable Batteries
• 600 grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Change out the battery. Batteries don't last forever and if you can't remember when you last changed it, then chances are good that it's dead. Be sure to use the same type of battery that was originally installed. These batteries are available at hardware stores or home improvement stores.

2. If you replace the batteries and the solar light still does not light up, then the problem may be the connection terminal. To fix this, first remove the battery.

3. Take a small piece of 600 grit sandpaper. Polish the electrical connections for the battery terminals in the solar light. In many cases the terminals will oxidize and the battery will no longer be making a solid electrical connection. When that happens, the battery will no longer charge during the day and the light will not come on at night.