We have used solar lights as a cheap alternative to wired-in outdoor lights. On the whole, they disappoint, particularly failing within a year, unable to get parts and ending up in the rubbish (we don't have a bin service, so that means our junk pile).
Had 2 solar lights in a French lamppost (Bunnings) which cost about $80. One light globe failed, went back to Bunnings and even though we had not bought it (gift) they trashed a new one to give us the light fitting incl globe as they don't carry spares. About 3 months later the other globe went, by that time I had found the supplier and bought 2 spares. Then both solar chargers died. We can recharge the batteries ourselves, but the solar panel no longer does this. I did maintenance, regular clean of solar panel etc. Pulled apart to check - not charging.
Other mid priced $15-$30 solars have failed within a year
- 2 floating pool lights (which were disappointingly dim to start with),
- solar 100 tiny lights (used several times - then not for months - then didn't work)
- an assortment of 'garden' lights - single light, single battery - solar chargers died
Cheap $2+ usually sealed - non removable battery
All died except one $2 Cheap shop which is still going bright & strong - spike broke so it sits on a rock.
All solars died within a year (except one $2 cheap shop & one $6 floating pool light). This defeats the idea that I am saving the planet by using rechargeable batteries and renewable energy. The other is that I can't find higher wattage (higher lumens) in outdoor solar lights. The industry seems to have gone backwards.
Are there any recommendations for reliable outdoor solar lights? We don't have solar power, our SWER line give us power fluctuations that regularly blow light globes, hence the liking for stand-alone units.