Solar lights recommendations

Prefersdirt · Jul 23, 2023

Got a shed out in middle of field w no windows. Need to put light inside it. Would like to just do solar powered (just lights so I can see) so I don’t have to worry about keeping things charged.

So many options. Ick. Anyone got experience w a kit consisting of a small panel for outside going to a scc and battery for dc lights? Yes, I can design one. But rather spend time on bigger projects.

Thanks

Cptx · Jul 23, 2023

I’m not aware of an all in one prepackaged system that includes the battery and lights.

There are those $100 prepackaged 30watt Allto panel systems that include an inline lithium or lead acid “MPPT” controller that you would then just connect to a 12volt lithium battery and connect the battery to 12volt string LED lights ($35)

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

Honestly, it might be more fun and better (higher quality and more ability to add on to it) to do the entire project DIY as you mentioned.
$50 Blemished 250watt panel from one of Will’s recommended sources
$80 20 amp Renogy or Epever MPPT
Lithium battery of your choice (with good BMS)
$35 12 volt LED string lights

$30 in hardware, wiring and fasteners.

Bluedog225 · Jul 24, 2023

There are some prepackaged solar light things on amazon. Pretty cheap and work.

My biggest gripe with mine is the photo sensor is on the panel. So they don’t light up the inside light during the daylight hours.

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

Yes, that was my concern with those…and motion sensing delays, etc.
I did consider the no windows on the shed. If there was a south facing window, it would open up some other options.

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

Suppose you could triple Gorilla tape over the photo sensor.

Prefersdirt · Jul 24, 2023

Cptx said:
Honestly, it might be more fun and better (higher quality and more ability to add on to it) to do the entire project DIY as you mentioned.
$50 Blemished 250watt panel from one of Will’s recommended sources
$80 20 amp Renogy or Epever MPPT
Lithium battery of your choice (with good BMS)
$35 12 volt LED string lights

$30 in hardware, wiring and fasteners.

I have spare panels. Rest is minor cost - so what string of lights would you recommend? Then I just need a motion sensor to put inside.

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

I suppose you have the aesthetic choice of 12volt LED hanging string lights (popular for outdoor patios) and 12volt LED strip lights (popular on boats and vehicles)

I like your idea of a motion sensing switch or just a standard regular switch by the door.

If a critter were to get in the shed, a motion sensor switch could possibly drain the battery.

Prefersdirt · Jul 24, 2023

Cptx said:
I suppose you have the aesthetic choice of 12volt LED hanging string lights (popular for outdoor patios) and 12volt LED strip lights (popular on boats and vehicles)

I like your idea of a motion sensing switch or just a standard regular switch by the door.

If a critter were to get in the shed, a motion sensor switch could possibly drain the battery.

Strip lights are preferred.

Good point on motion sensor.

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

Remote control that comes with the led strip + double sided velcro to the inside of the door = easy switch

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

12volt
The informative bloke above recommends these as one option (along with others)

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

Then if you choose the above; the BTF remote switch + double side velcro

yodie213 · Jul 24, 2023

https://www.amazon.com/Solar-Light-Bulbs-Waterproof-Rechargeable/dp/B0C5X92H9B/ref=asc_df_B083TJL766/?tag=&linkCode=df0&hvadid=416655650137&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3899044357216807695&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9014733&hvtargid=pla-884064195265&ref=&adgrpid=94181909936&th=1

iv got these and use them in a chicken coup. they have lasted awhile.

Bluedog225 · Jul 24, 2023

Cptx said:
Suppose you could triple Gorilla tape over the photo sensor.

If I could find it. Small solar panel and it’s embedded in there somewhere.

Cptx · Jul 24, 2023

If you find it, maybe ten layers of black nail polish.

Solarcabin Channel · Oct 14, 2023

Look on Amazon for chicken coop and shed lights with their own solar panels.

Lots of brands to choose from.

A 10 watt LED is what I use.

Solarcabin Channel · Oct 14, 2023

DIY MZ said:
Solar Newbie with a Bright Idea: I'm not a solar expert, but I did grab two Heazap solar lights once—it rocked my garden. Heazap might have something cool. Just make sure those panels catch plenty of rays, and you'll be golden!View attachment 172344

Installed a solar yard light last year similar to those and very happy with it.

Even on low sun winter days it always comes on and keeps my entire front yard lit up.

I also installed a solar security camera with night vision and works well as a game camera to get pics from my hummingbird feeder.

Wish · Oct 16, 2023

Cptx said:
Honestly, it might be more fun and better (higher quality and more ability to add on to it) to do the entire project DIY as you mentioned.
$50 Blemished 250watt panel from one of Will’s recommended sources
$80 20 amp Renogy or Epever MPPT
Lithium battery of your choice (with good BMS)
$35 12 volt LED string lights

$30 in hardware, wiring and fasteners.

I want to buy a solar lamp installed in the courtyard, the first try, what price would you recommend me to buy will be more durable

Wish · Oct 16, 2023

DIY MZ said:
Solar Newbie with a Bright Idea: I'm not a solar expert, but I did grab two Heazap solar lights once—it rocked my garden. Heazap might have something cool. Just make sure those panels catch plenty of rays, and you'll be golden!View attachment 172344

Your house is beautiful. I think this this light is it easy to install, do you need to connect wires? I live alone, but I'm afraid I can't install it alone

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