It’s time to untangle those extension wires and hang those Christmas lights now that the holiday season has come. They may not appear to be much, but string lights do require power, and if you leave them up for several weeks, you may find yourself with a shockingly hefty electric bill once all the presents have been unpacked. Fortunately, solar isn’t only for your roof: it can also be used to replace traditional Christmas lights with a green alternative. Solar Christmas lights are an excellent choice for eco-friendly holiday decorators.
What Is the Process of Using Solar Christmas Lights?
Solar Christmas lights are connected to a dark panel, known as a solar cell, that transforms the sun’s rays into electricity. After that, the freshly converted electricity is stored in a battery until it is required. Solar lights are charged by the sun throughout the day. When it becomes dark outside in the evening, a photoreceptor detects it and turns on the light. Until the battery runs out or the photoreceptor detects light again, the light (typically an LED) will stay on.
Many string lights sold at your local hardware shop are powered by little batteries that only last for one night. Solar batteries last around two years before they need to be replaced.
What are the Costs of Solar Christmas Lights?
Solar Christmas lights will cost more up front than traditional plug-in lights. (However, keep in mind that you’re saving money by lowering your utility expenses!) Solar-powered lights cost around 30% to 50% more than traditional lights. Because Christmas lights aren’t particularly costly to begin with, the change in price is generally less than $10. A 100-foot strand of solar-powered lights, for example, may cost roughly $30 on Amazon, whereas an equivalent 100-foot string of regular plug-in lights might cost just over $20.
Solar Holiday Lights Come in a Variety of Styles
Instead of incandescent bulbs, most solar Christmas lights utilize LED bulbs. LED bulbs are more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs, however, they are not as bright as incandescent bulbs.
All of your favorite outdoor Christmas lights are available in solar versions! Traditional string lights, fairy lights, copper wire string lights, and icicle lights are among the options.
What are the Benefits of Using Solar Christmas Lights?
- Spending less money on electricity
Although solar Christmas lights are more expensive up front than standard string lights, you will save money on your energy bills in the long run. Solar lights should last a long time if you just use them during the holidays.
- Cutting down on your carbon footprint
In comparison to incandescent bulbs, solar lights with LED bulbs consume less energy, emit less heat, charge faster, and last longer. Solar energy is a safe, sustainable source of energy that helps to minimize carbon emissions.
Have Questions About Solar Christmas Lights?
Contact Comet Electric, we have a team of experts ready to assist you with all of your electrical needs.
