What You Need to Know About Solar Lighting For Businesses

A solar light is actually very basic in design. There are no intricate components that easily break down. In fact, there are only four parts plus the actual housing for a commercial solar light. Understanding these lights does not require an understanding of confusing technical terms, but simply understanding these four basic parts:

The Solar Panel

The most integral part of the system is, of course, the solar panel. This unit uses small cells that trap the light from the sign and convert it to electricity. The current that is created by a photovoltaic cell is then run to a battery. These cells are usually large and square, giving plenty of area for light collection. It is vital that these cells are directed in a way to gain the most exposure to the sun's rays during the brightest part of the day.

The Charge

Controller and the Power Control Although it is vital the battery in a solar powered light is charged fully during the day, it is also important that it is not overcharged. An overcharged battery will have a shorter life span. Sun-powered lighting systems are equipped with a switch that helps to regulate the charge. These switches stop the current going to the battery once the charge is full. The lights are also equipped with a small light detector or photo "eye" that determines when the ambient lighting gets too dark, and the light is turned on. This helps to minimize any wasted energy and conserve it for a bright and lasting illumination during the night. Some systems also include a manual on/off switch or a motion sensor for added convenience.

The Battery

Smaller solar powered lighting systems often use a regular, rechargeable Ni-Cad battery, available at any large store. Larger models of commercial lighting depend on a sealed lead acid or gel type rechargeable battery (very similar to a vehicle battery). Although the batteries in these systems will last anywhere between five and ten years, they will from time to time need to be replaced. It will become obvious when a battery needs to be replaced as the lights will not appear as bright or strong.

The Light

Generally, the light used in a these systems is an LED (light emitting diode) that produces a cool burning, steady source of luminance. These bulbs are very long lasting (they last at least ten times longer than a standard, incandescent or fluorescent bulb) and extremely durable. LED lights can stand up to harsh environmental changes and inclement weather, making them ideal for outdoor lighting. The lights run use a very small charge, meaning that these systems are the ideal situation for their use. They can last for quite a while on a battery.