FAQ on Solar Lighting

Questions and Answers about the care and operation of outdoor solar lights
used in the garden or along pathways - from Segue to Solar.com

 How does a solar light work?

Solar lights have a solar cell that converts sunlight into electricity. This electricity is then used to recharge the built-in batteries each day. A photo-cell sensor automatically turns on the solar light at night.

How long will solar lights run at night?

Solar lights need direct sunlight.  The more sunlight received during each day, the longer the light will operate that night. Since solar lights are powered entirely by the sunlight they receive each day, operating times will vary by specific location, daily weather conditions, and season. Many of our solar lights can run for up to 8-10 hours. As a general rule, solar lighting performs better during the summer months mainly because the longer and sunnier days enable a full charge to be achieved.  Adverse weather and short winter days do affect performance, as charge times are reduced in relation to hours of daylight and the strength of the light.

What are the advantages of solar lighting?

Solar lighting is safe and environmentally friendly since they do not require external power supply. There is no wiring required and installation is very easy. Suitable for use in remote areas and location near water.  And they run cost free, you do not have to worry about electricity bills.

Are solar lights weather-proof?

Solar lights are designed for all weather temperature.  If you have the glass type model and you live in an area where you get rain, snow, or wind storms during fall and winter season, it is best to store your lights during these months.  When storing them, make sure that the rocker switch is in the Off position to prevent the battery from draining. If you live in an area where rain is minimal, your solar lights can be outside all year round.

What type of battery is used on Alpan solar lights?

We use AA type rechargeable Nickel Cadmium (Nicad) batteries on most of our products. These batteries can be ordered directly from us or can be purchased from any home center or local electrical store such as as Radio Shack.

How long does the battery last?

Nickel Cadmium battery should last about 2 years with proper maintenance.  To maximize the life span of the battery, it is best to recharge the battery by turning off the solar unit periodically for 3 to 4 days to deep charge.

Do I need a charger for my batteries?

No. The batteries in your solar units are charged by the sunlight through the solar panel.

The batteries must be charged properly prior to first use. Turn the switch to the Off position and place the solar light in direct sunlight for 3 to 4 consecutive sunny days.

What type of bulb does my solar light use?

We utilize the latest L.E.D. (Light Emitting Diode) on our solar lights.

How long does the L.E.D. lasts?

You  should never have to replace the LED bulb in your solar lights. LEDs will run up to 100,000 hours. LEDs are not replaceable.

How bright are the lights?

The brightness of the LED solar lights are not indicated in terms of watts. The measurement of it is mcd (millicandelas candle light). Solar lighting has become much more reliable and efficient over the years. But it is especially important to note that this product is usually used for accent or decorative lighting.

If my solar lights run automatically, why does it have an on/off switch?

Alpan solar lights are equipped with a convenient on/off Rocker Switch for manual override and to eliminate performance inhibiting memory effect from the internal batteries.

What kind of maintenance does it require?

No maintenance is required except for an occasional wiping of the solar panel to keep it free of dust, dirt, debris, or snow to allow the batteries to charge properly for optimum performance.

What are the disadvantages of solar lighting?

Because solar lights are dependent on the amount of sunlight they get each day, the run time will be reduced during non-summer months. Adverse weather and short winter days do affect performance, as charge times are reduced in relation to hours of daylight and the strength of the light.

Solar lights are usually not as bright as other forms of outdoor landscape lighting and some people see this as a disadvantage. However, others welcome the softer, more subtle light output that these fixtures are specifically designed for.

How do I store my solar lights?

Some people store their solar lights indoors during winter months. Make sure to put the switch in the off position and kept in a dark place. When positioning outdoors again, follow the start procedure in the owner's manual.

How long is the Warranty?

We provide a 1-Year Limited Warranty with most of our products.

LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING

How does low voltage light work?

Low voltage lights operate on 12-volt electrical current. The transformer reduces the 120-volt home current to a safe 12 volts.

As I connect the post with the ground stake, why do I need to twist the wire counter-clockwise eight times before connecting the two together?

Twisting the wire counter-clockwise ensures there won't be any shortage of the wiring because it will avoid stripping of the wire from the post and the ground stake.

My transformer does not have an "on/off" switch.

The transformer has a built-in photo sensor that automatically turns your lights on at dusk (night time) and turns off at day light.

Can I use an extension cord from the outlet to the transformer?

For safety reasons, we do not recommend the use of an extension cord. However, you may use a higher gauge of wire than the transformer.

How many lights can my transformer accommodate?

You may use up to nine (9) lights with 10-watt halogen bulb per light. Our transformer has a 90-watt maximum capacity.

How safe is the bare wire at the end of the cable?

The cable is safe and harmless, no threat of electric shock. You can just leave it as is or you can seal it with electrical tape.

One or two of my lights do not turn on.

Please check for the following:

a.) Check the low voltage T-Mark connector to ensure cable is properly pierced. Retighten connector.

b.) Check the halogen bulb, make sure it is properly inserted.

c.) Make sure cable/wire is properly inserted into screws of transformer for solid connection.

All of my lights do not turn on after installing them?

Check the following:

a.) Make sure transformer is plugged into 120-volt outlet.

b.) Check the thermal fuse located at the bottom of the transformer. If necessary, replace the fuse (120v / 10 amp).

c.) Check if there is any light source (wall light, street lamp, etc.) that could be hindering the photo-sensor to detect night time. Test by covering the eye of the photo-sensor to check if this light source is affecting power on/off operation.

Why does my unit remain turned 'on' during the day?

The transformer must be placed and mounted OUTDOOR for the photo-sensor to detect outside light and automatically turn 'on' at dusk and 'off' at daybreak.

Can I use other manufacturer's transformer with my  Low Voltage lights?

Yes, you can use any other transformer provided that it is the right voltage specification and can accommodate the wattage of the lights.

Can I use a different bulb wattage on the same cable run?

Yes, you can mix different wattage on the same cable provided that the total wattage of the whole run will not exceed the total wattage output of the transformer.

Questions?

Contact: Segue to Solar Online Store

Address: 4067 Hardwick St. #466

Lakewood, CA 90712

Toll-free tel. 877-467-3483

Local: (562) 421-749

Members, American Solar Energy Society

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