Life Span of Solar Lights

by Preetham Karat

Solar lights life span depends upon three major components used in it. Namely solar panel, battery and LED. On an average solar light lasts anywhere between 2 to 8 years. This means it can work efficiently ( above 80%) for these many years. Over a period of time efficiency is reduced below 80%, (it doesn't mean it stops working) which is consider as end of Life Span of Solar Lights. Solar Lights Life Span Dependency factors :

The efficiency of a solar light is reduced below 80% over a period of time which is considered the end of lifespan although the light does not stop working at this phase. Typically, an overall warranty of 2 to 8 years is promised by the solar light manufacturers. The performance and lifespan of solar lights depend on the quality of the parts used in the light system such as light source, battery, controller, solar panels and other components connecting all these together.

Tapetum India Solar was launched with the idea of promoting renewable energy and delivering quality solar lighting solutions at affordable rates.  With ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 10002:2004 certifications, Tapetum is now a leading distributor of modern solar street lights, solar garden light, solar gate light, emergency lights and flash lights.  Team Tapetum offers assistance in helping you choose the right product as per your needs and ongoing support is guaranteed even after the purchase of your solar product.

Light source: All the modern solar lights, especially solar street lights, use LED as their light source because LED lights are able to produce higher luminosity with lower energy consumption. Life of LED lights depend on their runtime and on an average, they can deliver 50,000 to 75,000 working hours and are less prone to failure with zero ultraviolet emissions.

Solar Panels: Solar panels are the most important and most expensive component of a solar lighting system. Monocrystalline or polycrystalline panels are used in solar lights. Solar panel life expectancy is anywhere around 25 years to 30 years and life of solar panel can be increased if they are well maintained.

Batteries: Lead acid batteries have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years but lithium ion or LiFePO4 batteries are widely used in solar lights due to their multiple benefits. Lithium ion battery can last for about 2 to 3 years and the typical estimated life of LiFePO4 batteries is approximately 5 to 6 years and the fact that they recharge faster can influence the total lifetime of the solar light system.

Solar Controller: PWM or MPPT controllers are used to protect the battery and regulate the voltage. Charge controllers typically have a lifespan of around 15 years and they decide when to switch on and switch off charging and lighting. Overcharging and undercharging of battery is also prevented with the help of controllers.

Solar light lifespan also depends on the exterior design of the unit. Solar lights are usually housed inside a casing made out of ABS plastic or metal alloy material. Since solar street lights and garden lights are used for outdoor lighting, waterproofing of the lighting units help the lights survive tough weather conditions. Solar street lights are often mounted on poles and thermally galvanized steel poles can last up to 40 years without rusting.

How long solar lights last is one of the most common questions asked by those who want to invest in solar lights. Solar light reliability and life also depend on how they are maintained. Although solar lights do not demand any maintenance as such routinely, occasional inspection and cleaning can help the performance of the lights and their overall life.