How to Clean Solar Lights

Knowing how to clean and maintain your solar lights will extend the useful life of your lighting by years. Solar lights are used in lawns, backyard gardens, rooftops, streets, and many more. They are independent because they do not need a power grid and so, there will not be any complicated and ugly-looking wiring system. In short, you can use these lights anywhere.

But, this particular aspect also creates a problem. Although solar lights require low maintenance, you will have to clean the solar panel, batteries, and light cover to keep it in working condition. Cleaning is very important and if you do not know how to clean solar lights, you are in the right spot. Here, we will let you know everything regarding the solar light cleaning.

Why Do You Need To Clean Solar Lights?

Earlier, we have mentioned that solar lights can be used anywhere and it is mostly used for outdoor areas. As a result, the main elements of the solar light such as solar panels, batteries, and light cover are exposed to the natural elements. It makes those components dirty and if you do not clean those things, it can hamper the performance of the solar lights. Learn more about how solar lights work to see that it is very important that you clean those components properly in order to prolong the lifespan of the solar lights.

How to Clean Solar Panels on Garden Lights

Wipe off Debris from the Panel

The solar panel plays the most important role. As it is a flat surface and exposed to the natural elements, it becomes a favorable place for the snow, debris, dust and other elements. Now, if you do not clean this surface, the cells will not get enough sunlight and consequently, it will not be able to turn the light into a DC current. You will get a very less amount of power and so, it will affect the overall performance of the solar lights.

Gently Clean with a Mild Soap and Water

In order to clean the solar panel, you need a damp paper towel. You will have to clean the surface with it. Well, you will have to make sure the panel does not get much pressure. Otherwise, it will be damaged. If you think that using a damp paper towel will not be enough, you can also use water. Clean the panel with water and then wipe it with a clean cloth

Clean the solar panels with vinegar

More stubborn staining and clouding over the panel will require more than soap. Try a vinegar solution to shift staining or even an alcohol to restore the panel back.

Clean the Batteries

As solar lights are mostly used for outdoor areas, the batteries inside the light reside in a very humid environment. As a result, they are highly prone to oxidizing. So, if you do not remove them on time, it can damage the overall light fixture. You should open the battery compartment and check the condition of the batteries. If you notice any kind of white powder, you should clean the battery terminals and at the same time, you should clean the battery compartment with a brush. You should also replace the old batteries with new ones and ensure any alkaline batteries are replaced for rechargeable ones as they are less prone to corrosion.

Clean The Light Cover

Well, cleaning the light cover is also important. Over the course of time, it also becomes dirty and reduces the intensity of light. So, you should clean it occasionally with a clean towel to get the ultimate performance from the solar lights.

If you are looking for new solar lighting let us do some of the research for you with our reviews and buying guides to the Best Solar Lights in 2021

Andrew Orange, the owner of Orange Lighting qualified and worked as an interior designer in 1993 before specialising in lighting working on high profile projects based in London. Since starting Orange Lighting Ltd in 2003 he has been sharing his knowledge and unique teaching style mostly to his designer clients, offering practical real life advice born from running a busy consultancy and lighting supply business. Launching in 2020, his blog has evolved into Quick & Easy Lighting, curating some 25 years design experience into making the lighting choice and design process achievable and easy to understand for all.