I'm looking for tips on how to improve the lifespan of those little solar garden lamps. They always seem to get ruined by water and weather. I've tried sealing around the edge of the solar panel with hot glue, but that was really messy and didn't work well. I'd love a simple solution that doesn't involve getting into the wiring.
2 Answers
First off, it sounds like the batteries are the main culprit here; they often quit working before the solar cells do. Most solar garden lights use rechargeable AA batteries, so if you're able to access them without damaging the unit, you could just swap in new batteries and potentially extend the life of your lights significantly. Some folks also report that corrosion can occur from water getting into the wiring areas as well, so sealing them up properly could help too!
And yeah, if you've glued things shut, make sure you can still open them up later for maintenance! Otherwise, you might be stuck with them forever.
I've had a pretty cheap set that I got from Walmart about eight years ago, and they've been working like a charm! I think the key is in how you take care of them. I only replaced the stakes with wooden ones for stability. The solar panels themselves seem to last as long as you keep the moisture out.
Totally agree! The batteries are usually the weak link. It’s smart to check for any signs of corrosion, especially if your lights have been in the rain. Keeping them dry could really make a big difference!