Have you ever noticed why is there an on-off switch on solar lights? No, I was also on the same track when my family installed it on the rooftop. Then I thought about extending my knowledge about the reason behind it. And then, I came across a choice of solar light with or without an on/off switch. Automatic charging of batteries and powering of solar lights depend entirely on information from an inbuilt sensor. Lights shut down when the sunlight is present, and batteries undergo charging. As soon as the sun hides, the lights are switched on.
Although not all lights come with an on/off switch. This is a choice that you may come across while buying lights. Another point to be questioned is if solar lights do not require a power switch, why do I get an option of sunshine with an on/off switch? Because The answer to the above doubt is that the switch will give me more control and flexibility to use lights per my needs and situations.
As per my experience, I found on/off switches mostly on solar-powered spotlights and security lights rather than on decorative lights.
Reasons For On-off Switch On Solar Lights
The main reason for having an on/off switch is the Resetting of the light. I could switch on or off the lights as per my need and did not have to wait for the sun to go down or set to switch on lights. Here I have sorted out some reasons to toggle the switch:-
Switch Off The Lights
- Lights must be switched off manually while transporting or moving them from place to place; if not switched off, light may get switched on while detecting darkness.
- In cases like a cloudy or no sunlight day, the batteries may not get charged easily, so preserving them for later use is better.
- While cleaning the lights, switching off the power switch is a must.
- A miniature recreation, such as while watching the stars in the sky or during a party in the backyard of a house, requires switching off the lights.
- As a traveler for an extended period, I have experienced it is better to switch off lights rather than permanently damage them by keeping them on for a long time.
Switch On The Lights
- Light needs to be switched on during the daytime during a cloudy day or for decoration of the house or as per the need.
- In situations such as trying to figure out reasons for damage to the solar light or its flickering or being unable to absorb the sun’s UV rays, I do not have to wait for a day to set and for lights to flicker or turn on.
Resetting A Solar Light
Sometimes back, I found out there was something wrong with the solar light present in the backyard of my house. Therefore, I turned it off and switched it on after 30 seconds, and guess what? It gave back its original brightness.
If the light is dull or is not giving its original brightness, then the batteries might have died down and need to be replaced. The dullness of the light may also be due to insufficient exposure of the batteries to sunlight. So concluding through it that Resetting the light helps resolve the problems in light.
Do you know how much panel required to charge 12v battery?
Is An On/off Switch Required For Charging A Solar Panel / Light?
As I said earlier, solar lights depend on the inbuilt sensor; therefore, lights work independently and do not require human intervention.
Considering technology and the advancement of recent times, Mostly all models of the batteries of solar lights are equipped with the ability to charge themselves without being affected by the position of the switch.
But the best answer can be gained by inquiring about Manufacturer’s guidelines.
Is Keeping The Switch On All The Time – Necessary?
The dial or knob of the switch must always be set to the ON position once solar lights/ panels are installed. Keeping the switch on will allow the light to remain on during the presence of sunlight for batteries to get charged, and at night, the switch will get on automatically to lighten up. If you are thinking about running out of batteries, relax and do not worry because batteries won’t run down or get damaged.
Keeping the knob at ON will also ensure consistent brightness and optimum performance. But the switch must be turned off while planning for a long-duration vacation/ trip or not to use the solar lights for an extended period.
Fixing A Solar Light That Stays On All Time
Problems and Issues are familiar with all electrical items, and so are with solar lights. Issues or faults may arise concerning switches, batteries, or other components. Sometimes solar lights undergo full power mode and stay on and on even when switched off or turned on. Some suggestions or advice can be considered before inquiring with the technical team.
The inbuilt sensor may get hindered due to dirt or unwanted substance that inhibits the proper functioning of the sensors and solar panels. Continuous use of the switch may damage the switch as the machine ages with time, or the switch may get damaged due to overusing solar lamps or overheating. Turning the switch on/off multiple times or replacing the switch may resolve the issue.
Batteries are prime components of solar panels/lights. So batteries need to be checked and, if required, need to be replaced from time to time or whenever required. Batteries, too, require sufficient charging. So testing batteries is a must.
Sometimes solar lights or panels may be unknowingly placed in the shadows of objects such as trees or buildings, hindering solar panels from absorbing sufficient sunlight. Therefore relocation if the panel is required to resolve the issue.
In improper connection or wiring cases, problems can be resolved by repairing the broken connection and securing them properly.
Is The Functioning Of Solar Lights Without Batteries Possible?
The answer to this is a straightforward NO. Solar lights cannot and will not function without batteries. As said before, batteries are essential for working for solar lights or panels. Batteries are required for storing electrical energy. Energy stored is then utilized at night, when there is no light source, or in emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions:-
- Are there any disadvantages of Solar Panels or Lights?
Yes, this energy source also has its cons, just like other sources. Initial installment of Solar panels or lights requires a lot of investment, such as purchasing the best quality batteries, switches or wiring connections, etc. Installment of Solar Panels requires a sufficient amount of space. The more necessary storage of energy, the more the number of solar panels are needed. Proper working of Solar panels or lights requires absorption of a sufficient amount of sunlight, making it a weather-dependent investment.
- Are ordinary batteries a good choice for Solar lights/panels?
The answer is an absolute NO. Regular batteries generally used in clocks or remotes are an absolute contraindication for solar lights. Regular batteries are Alkaline- based batteries that are required to be replaced when batteries run out of energy. So, it’s not possible to use AA batteries in solar lights.
- Purchasing a solar light without an on/off switch- a good option or not?
Buying a solar light without an on/off switch may be a good option, But the ones with the power switch are a better and more feasible choice as more control and customization are achieved.
Conclusion
In this continuously growing world with high energy consumption, Solar Energy is a renewable and efficient choice. Solar panels or lights provide you with a comprehensive source of light and electricity. So installing one is a better idea as well. The most important thing to remember is if your panels have a switch, where is its location? Mostly it is under the cover to avoid rain and water, etc.
Although it entirely depends upon you whether you want any switch or not, or on the intent of the Manufacturer. But there should be a switch due to safety and security concerns and many other reasons.
Ray is an avid reader and writer with over 25 years of experience serving various domestic and multinational private and public energy companies in the USA.