Solar landscape lights are a beautiful and eco-friendly addition to any outdoor space. Not only do they provide ambiance, but they also serve as security features around your home or business. However, over time, dirt, grime, and environmental elements can accumulate on the solar panels, dimming the lights and reducing their efficiency. Learning how to clean solar landscape lights effectively is essential for maintaining their brightness and extending their lifespan. If you’re looking for professional landscape lighting in Philadelphia, our team is here to help!
In this guide, we’ll cover the importance of regular cleaning and provide step-by-step instructions on how to properly clean your solar lights. With just a few simple tools and techniques, you can keep your solar lights shining brightly year-round.
Why Cleaning Your Solar Landscape Lights Matters
Dust, pollen, bird droppings, and even leaves will build up on your solar landscape lights over time. The buildup on the panels prevents them from collecting sunlight as efficiently as they once did, which in turn reduces their capacity to charge. Thus, your solar lights may become dimmer and not last as long at night.
Having a routine of regular cleaning is vital for your lights to be effective in absorbing sunlight and staying efficient. Cleaning your lights also helps extend the lifespan of the solar batteries, as well as the lights themselves by preventing the battery from draining too quickly. Your solar lights may not reach their full potential without maintenance, and your yard or garden becomes less secure and less well-lit.
How to Clean Solar Landscape Lights: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning your solar landscape lights is a simple process that doesn’t require a lot of time or special tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your solar lights looking like new:
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before starting, make sure you have the following items:
- A bucket of warm, soapy water (using mild dish soap).
- A soft-bristled brush or soft scrub brush.
- A soft cloth, microfiber cloth, or sponge.
- A garden hose with a spray nozzle (optional).
Step 2: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Start by swabbing the surface of the solar panel clear of loose grime or dust. A damp cloth or soft-bristled brush without liquid can be applied for this job. Gently wipe the panel to avoid scratching it. Should stuck dirt become necessary, apply a soft sponge. For larger stains on the solar panel, a vinegar water solution will soften the grime without damaging the surface.
Step 3: Clean with Soapy Water
Next, mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap. Dip your soft-bristled brush or sponge into soapy water and wipe gently over the panels. Don’t miss the edges and corners as dirt accumulates there. If you are scrubbing out dirty areas, vinegar water in a spray bottle is magic. Be careful to use circular motions lest you scratch.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the panels with clean water after brushing to remove the soap. Be careful not to allow water into the battery compartment or other parts that are supposed to be dry. Rinsing with a sponge or cloth does the job well without spilling water all over. Dry all the parts thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth to avoid scratches or water spots.
Step 5: Tackle Tougher Stains
For hard stains, such as bird droppings or any stubborn spots, create a paste using baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste on the stained area and scrub. Carefully rinse off the paste after the stain has been removed to avoid any potential damage. Vinegar and water solution can also be applied for hard marks that do not shift.
Step 6: Dry Completely
Following washing, ensure that your solar lights are fully dried up before rebuilding. Gently clean the solar panels and any metal components with a soft, dry cloth. This prevents any moisture from causing damage to the inside parts and helps prepare the lights to shine intensely once more.
Conclusion
The secret to the proper functioning of your solar landscape lights is maintaining and cleaning them well. Regular cleaning keeps them efficient, brighter, and more durable. Be it regular cleaning or scrubbing of heavy stains, the above steps will make your solar lights look bright throughout the year.
If you’re in need of professional installation of outdoor lighting in Lancaster, trust the experts at GB Electric. We specialize in high-quality lighting solutions for homes and businesses in the area. Contact us today to schedule your lighting installation or get more information!