SOLAR DECK LIGHTING

One option consumers have in creating beautiful nightscapes

Many homes are fitted with an outdoor deck and this area is usually in heavy use for outdoor entertaining or relaxation. There are many options available when considering the need to provide light to a deck area for nighttime use and one that is becoming more popular is solar deck lighting.

Decorative outdoor lighting has traditionally been a wired, low voltage landscape lighting solution but more and more, consumers are choosing solar powered light products. This may or may not be the appropriate choice for deck lighting, depending on priorities.

Solar lights are probably the best bet in areas removed from an electrical source. However, decks are normally right next to a house and so have a convenient source of electricity. Strong, bright light may also be desired for this area and this would more easily be provided by traditional electric lights. But there are some solar products designed specifically for deck lighting that should be considered.

Solar products have advantages and disadvantages in deck lighting applications

There is a convenience in not having to worry about wiring up lights around the deck. Solar lights are stand alone and don't need to be connected to anything. They come as solar lamp post lights, or lanterns, or post lights or anything you might want. The recessed styles fit on stairs or can be mounted flush with the deck itself and throw an accent light, creating a soft scene and providing discreet lighting for safety. (This style is also good for docks!)

The disadvantage to solar lights is that they need sunlight to charge during the day. The good news is that photovoltaic technology has improved enough that good quality lights will happily charge to full capacity even on cloudy days and LED bulb technology means you can purchase soft discreet light or solar deck lights bright enough for security reasons or any other leisure activity.

Many people prefer wired lighting solutions for a deck application because the light available is brighter and plugging them in to a ready electrical source is not a problem. But many also prefer solar lighting solutions, attracted by the beauty they provide, the flexibility they offer and the zero operating and maintenance costs. Consumers can shop around online for both types of lighting solution.

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