Solar-powered security lights are an eco-friendly way to keep your garage, home and garden well-lit. Some solar-powered security lights are designed to illuminate at dusk and remain on till dawn. But often, the light isn’t needed until people are in the area. With motion detector solar security lights, you don’t waste the valuable built-up charge by having them on constantly. A motion detector means the light remains off until someone is in the area.
Suppose it’s you, family or friends entering or leaving your property. In that case, the way will be safely illuminated, but should it turn out to be someone who shouldn’t be there, the sudden withdrawal of the cover of darkness created by the solar-powered security light should discourage them from pursuing any nefarious tasks they may have had on their mind.
Besides helping you feel safe, solar-powered security lights can be installed quickly and easily without any need for wiring. They won’t raise your monthly electric bill, making it ideal for the budget-conscious DIYer. To help you narrow your choices, we’ve rounded up some solar power lights to see which products outshine the competition (ahem). With a range of different designs, you’re sure to find something to keep your home, garage, garden, driveway or path safe.
The best solar security lights at a glance:
Editor’s Choice: Luceco Solar Guardian – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best solar security light for directional illumination: Bell and Howell Bionic Spotlight – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best solar security light for contemporary design: SolarCentre® Grantham – Buy now from Amazon UK
The best solar security lights in detail
Editor’s choice
It’s rated at a decent 800 lumens, which is more than adequate for security and safety purposes. Water resistance is rated at IP44, so it is adequately protected from rain, just don’t spray it with your pressure washer.
Pros
- Good light output
- Straightforward installation
Cons
- No control over the PIR detection area
Best solar security light for directional illumination
Any movement detected by the motion detectors will trigger the light, which will remain on for 30 seconds after the motion has stopped. When the light is off, a flashing red LED lets you know it’s charged and working but can give the impression that it’s a security camera.
Pros
- Light and solar panel positions are adjustable
- Flashing red LED for added security
Cons
- Can take a few days of daylight to build up to optimum charge
Best solar-powered security light multipack
These heavy-duty lights come in a set of four and operate in three modes: security, which utilizes the automatic motion sensor to activate the light; smart brightness control, which keeps the light on all night but increases the brightness when motion is detected, and an all-night option which automatically turns on at dusk and off at dawn.
An IP rating of 65 means these lights will withstand the heaviest rain showers and even direct water jets.
Pros
- Set of four for versatile illumination
- Good weatherproofing
Cons
- The brighter, security illumination period could be extended
Best solar-powered security light for flexible installation
The main unit has an impressive 1000 lumens light that can be dimmed or brightened. The sensitivity of the PIR and the light timing can be user-controlled, and the PIR detector itself can be moved independently to give optimum coverage.
Pros
- Solar panel, light and PIR detector can all be positioned and adjusted independently
- Sensitivity, time and brightness are adjustable
Cons
- Getting the ideal sensitivity can be tricky
Best solar-powered security light for contemporary design
Rrp: £32.99
Rrp: £32.99
It’s not the brightest light on our list but can provide a more subtle form of illumination and works well when installed in two or more sets.
Pros
- Stylish look
- Up and down light
Cons
- Not as bright as others on the list
What should I look for when buying solar security lights?
When choosing solar security lights, there are several key things to look for:
Brightness: Look for lights with a high lumen output to ensure sufficient lighting for the area you wish to cover.
Motion sensor range: Ensure that the motion sensor range covers the area you want to protect. A wider range will give you greater coverage.
Weather resistance: The lights should be weather-resistant, with an IP rating of at least IP44.
Installation: Consider how easy the lights are to install. Some models are designed to be easily mounted with screws or adhesive, while others may require more complex installation.
Design: Choose a design that won’t compromise your home’s exterior appearance. There are many styles to choose from, so you can find one that fits your aesthetic preferences.
Price: Consider your budget and look for lights that offer the features you need at a price you can afford.
Alex Boyd is a Commercial Content Writer at Bauer Media writing for Parker’s and CAR, and loves travel, gardening, DIY and music.
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