There are many myths and misunderstandings about solar and solar powered lighting that we hear about when speaking with our customers. Some are due to bad experiences with poor quality products; some are based on outdated misconceptions.
We are here to set the record straight, and settle some of these myths.
Myth 1 - Solar lights are unreliable
Some are, ours are not! Solar Illuminations prides itself in offering a selection of reliable commercial grade solar lighting systems, and solar lights. Our systems are supplied with appropriately sized solar panels and batteries to match the weather conditions and night lengths in your location. We also supply our systems with at least 3 nights of battery back up to accommodate for weather conditions that are worse than the average winter conditions in your location.
Another factor is the importance of properly installing your solar light. We’ve come across many situations where a light isn’t performing properly due to the fact that the solar light or solar panel is installed in a shaded location. A solar light or solar panel needs to be installed in direct sunlight for it to function properly. So make sure they’re not installed under a tree, in the shadow of a tall building, wall, or anything else that can cast a shadow on to the panel.
Myth 2 - Solar lights are not bright
No way! With the help from energy efficient LEDs, lights are getting brighter and using less power. We offer lights that range anywhere from 3 Watts (300 lumens) to 135 Watts (14,000 lumens). And of course, we match the lights with the appropriate sized batteries and solar panel so that the light will perform as expected year round.
Myth 3 - Solar doesn’t work in the winter or where I live
If you get the right product, that’s not the case! If you want a reliable system that works year-round, even in the winter, even if you’re in a Northern location, it can be done. We use sun level data from stations located across the world to make sure your system will work. We’ll pick the worst time of the year and the longest night, then size your system based on those worst case scenario conditions.
Myth 4 - Solar panels are big and ugly
How could you think such a thing? We understand that not everyone loves to see a solar panel as much as we do, and we can help with that. If you want to keep the solar panel as small as possible, we’ll design a system with that in mind. Also, think about how others will think when they see the solar panel. If you’re a business or organization, people will appreciate your efforts toward going green and becoming more environmentally conscious.
Myth 5 - Solar lights are expensive
We offer high quality products while keeping costs as low as possible. We offer a wide variety of products that can accommodate most budgets. Compared to trenching cables out to remote sites, installing a solar lighting system is often a more cost effective solution. Then take in to consideration a monthly electric and meter bill. The cost of just having a meter alone can be around $30 a month or $360 a year, plus local and state taxes. There’s none of those associated costs with a solar system. In fact, there are several financial incentives to install a solar system.
Myth 6 - Solar lights don’t last long
Many people have purchased solar lights from big online or brick and mortar stores, for them to last a few months and then quit. We don’t sell those types of lights. We sell many commercial grade products and systems that we stand behind. Our systems are supplied with a 5 year warranty, with most other products backed with a 2 year limited warranty. We’ve been in business since 2003, and are not going anywhere. Unlike some big online stores where the seller of a product can disappear after a few months, we’re here to support you.
These are the most common misconceptions we hear, but if you have any other questions about solar, solar lights, or solar systems, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We love to hear from you, and are happy to help!