You may have noticed that your solar garden lights are not performing as well as they used to. It could be that they are not as bright, they don’t stay on as long, or they don’t turn on at all. Many people throw these solar lights away when they stop working and buy new ones. However, you can save some money and salvage your solar lights with a few DIY repairs.
Understanding Solar Garden Lights
Solar garden lights comprise four main parts: the photovoltaic (PV) cell or solar cell, NiCad (nickel-cadmium) or NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) batteries, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and the controller board. A solar cell absorbs sunlight, converting it into electrical energy, which charges the battery during the day. The controller board regulates this process and triggers the LED to turn on at night or when the light is insufficient.
Common Reasons for Malfunctioning Solar Garden Lights
Before diving into fixes, it’s important to understand the common issues that can plague solar garden lights:
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Dirty Solar Panels: Solar panels are highly prone to getting covered with dirt, dust, and debris. Mud splatter during rains, falling leaves, and bird droppings can all obstruct sunlight reaching the solar cells.
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Drained Battery: A common reason for solar lights to stop working is that their batteries are worn out. NiMh and NiCad batteries in solar lights typically last for about two years.
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Damaged Solar Cells: Solar cells can get damaged due to various reasons, including severe weather conditions or physical abuse.
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Failing LED Bulbs: LEDs can burn out or fail over time, which is another common reason for solar lights not working.
Now that we understand the common reasons let’s dig into the solutions.
Cleaning Solar Panels
Start by cleaning the solar panels. Using a soft, damp cloth, gently wipe away any residue or particle on the panel’s surface. For stubborn dirt, use mild soap and lukewarm water. After cleaning, dry the panels using a dry soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials or cleaners to prevent damaging the solar cells.
Replacing the Battery
If a thorough cleaning doesn’t fix the issue, consider changing the batteries. To replace the battery, first, open the battery compartment, which is typically located at the bottom or back of the light. If the compartment is sealed, you’ll need to unscrew it. Once opened, remove the old batteries.
Before buying replacements, identify the type and voltage of the original batteries. These details should be imprinted on the battery’s side. After you’ve inserted the new batteries, ensure to dispose of the used ones properly, since both NiMh and NiCad are considered hazardous waste.
Checking the Solar Cells and LEDs
If the lights still don’t work, there might be an issue with the solar cells or LEDs. Check the solar cells for any physical damage. If you find cracks or any visible damage, it might be necessary to replace the whole unit.
Similarly, for LEDs, look for any signs of burnout or damage. Replace the damaged LED bulb with a new one of the same specifications.
Repairing the Controller Board
The controller board may need to be repaired or replaced if the lights are still not working. This often requires a level of proficiency in electronics. The circuit board condition can be checked visually for any broken connections or components. If you notice that components such as capacitors or transistors are burnt or damaged, they will need to be replaced. It’s advisable to take the help of a professional for repairing the controller board as some level of electrical experience and skill is required.
Reassembling the Solar Lights
Once the relevant components have been cleaned, replaced, or repaired, it’s time to put the solar light back together. Ensure you reassemble it in the same order as it was disassembled. Put back the LED light and panel if they were removed, insert the new batteries, and reconnect the controller board.
After reassembling, place the solar light out in the sun for a day so the panel can charge the battery. If everything has been done correctly, the light should start working when it gets dark.
Through these simple steps, you can breathe new life into your solar garden lights and continue enjoying their glow. Proper maintenance, such as regularly cleaning the solar panel and replacing the batteries every two years, will further extend their lifespan and ensure they function optimally.
Remember, whenever you are working with electronics, take precautions to prevent shocks or short circuits. If you have little experience in electronics, it might be better to seek assistance rather than risking damage to the device or personal injury. By respecting these precautions, you can ensure that your solar lights continue to brighten your garden for many years.
