How to install a solar powered light

Deter intruders and light up your garden in the evenings

Solar powered floodlights can be used as a security feature but also to illuminate your garden paths, help you see who's calling at night, or to make the most of your patio on long summer evenings. The solar panel charges the internal batteries during the day, and at night the security light illuminates when it detects motion. Ideally the solar panel should be installed south facing and in the sun for as much of the day as possible.

This guide will take you through what you need to do to fit your solar powered floodlight safely and securely.

Tools for the job

How to install a solar powered light on a house wall

Before you start, have a look at the best place to install your solar-powered light. The more sunlight the panel can be exposed to, the better your light will be. Avoid places directly under the shadows of your roof or from nearby trees.

Although installation principles are similar, you should always read the fitting instructions that accompany your solar powered light. For this installation, we are fitting the Brampton solar powered security light.

Don’t forget, when fitting lights outdoors, make sure you only fit weatherproof lights that are specially designed for outdoor use.

Charge up the light

Solar powered lights can take up to 48 hours to fully charge up. So, whilst you’re getting all your tools and materials together, it’s a good idea to charge it up in the sun before you install it. Take it out of the box and leave it in a sunny place in the garden – don’t forget to read the charging instructions first as the light is usually switched off whilst it charges up for the first time.

Step 1

Remove the fixing bracket from the light with a crosshead screwdriver.

Step 2

Using the appropriate ladder for the job, mark the bracket position onto the wall and use a spirit level to check it is level.

If your wall is a brick wall, mark the fixing points on to the mortar joints rather than the brick. You can drill into the brick but mortar is softer and easier to drill into. Drilling directly into the brick can crack it, so it’s best avoided if you can.

Step 3

Mark the depth of the wall plugs onto the correct sized masonry drill bit with a piece of tape. With safety goggles on, drill the marked positions with a hammer drill and blow out the dust from the holes.

Step 4

Push a wall plug into each hole. A hammer might help to tap them ho

Step 5

Place the bracket into position and screw it flush to the wall.

Step 6

Assemble the security light as required.

Step 7

Fit the light to the bracket and screw it securely on with the fixings provided.

Step 8

With the light securely attached to the wall, read the product fitting instructions and set the light up, adjusting the timer, sensor and solar panel as required. You will need to charge the light fully before it can function correctly (this could take up to 48 hours, with the switch in the off position), but the instructions will detail exactly what to do.