If your solar lights aren’t shining as brightly or for as long as they used to, it might be time to replace their batteries. Typically, solar light batteries last between 3 to 4 years, depending on how many times they’ve been charged and discharged. When choosing new batteries, here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Battery Type: There are various sizes and types of rechargeable batteries, such as A, AA, AAA, etc. For solar lights, AA batteries are commonly used and widely available. Select the type that’s compatible with your lights for the best performance.
- Capacity: Battery capacity, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), indicates how long a battery can power your lights on a single charge. Capacities range from 600 to 2000 mAh or more. Opt for batteries with a higher capacity for extended lighting time.
- Quantity Needed: Depending on the number of solar lights you have, you might need several batteries. Batteries typically come in packs of multiple units, from 8 to 20 batteries. Consider how many lights you need to support and their battery replacement frequency to choose the right pack size.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best solar batteries on the market, along with a comprehensive “Buying Guide” to help you select the ideal batteries for your solar lights, ensuring they light up effectively.
7 Best Batteries For Solar Lights Table
| Batteries | Capacity | No. of Batteries | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Battery for Solar Lights | 2000mAh | 8 | 1 Year | Check On Amazon |
| Brightown Battery for Solar Lights | 1300mAh | 12 | 1 Year | Check On Amazon |
| Tenergy Battery for Solar Lights | 1000mAh | 12 | --- | Check On Amazon |
| GEILIENERGY Batteries For SolarLights | 600mAh | 20 | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
| EBL Batteries for Solar Lights | 1100mAh | 20 | --- | Check On Amazon |
| HENREEPOW Battery for Solar Light | 1300mAh | 12 | --- | Check On Amazon |
| POWEROWL Batteries For Solar Lights | 2800mAh | 12 | --- | Check On Amazon |
7 Best Batteries For Solar Lights Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Battery for Solar Lights
The Amazon Basics Batteries stand out as a dependable power source for your solar lights and everyday devices. With a substantial 2000 mAh capacity, these batteries promise long-lasting performance and are designed to be recharged up to 1000 times, making them an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable batteries. The pre-charged feature ensures they’re ready to use right out of the package, saving time and enhancing convenience. Their low self-discharge rate maintains 80% capacity for up to 2 years, ensuring your solar lights remain illuminated and your devices powered without frequent replacements.
The compatibility of these NiMH batteries extends beyond solar lights to include remote controls, flashlights, clocks, and more, making them a versatile addition to your home. Their ability to withstand numerous recharge cycles without significant power loss is a testament to their durability and quality. Whether for everyday use or emergency situations, these batteries provide reliable power while contributing to a sustainable lifestyle.
Specifications:
- Battery Cell Composition: NiMH
- Unit Count: 8 Count
- Voltage: 1.2V
- Capacity: 2000mAh
- Recharge Cycles: Up to 1000 times
- Low Self-Discharge: Maintains 80% capacity for 2 years
- Shelf Life: Up to 5 years
Pros:
- High capacity ensures longer runtime for devices.
- Can be recharged up to 1000 times, offering great value.
- Low self-discharge rate means they’re ready when you need them.
- Pre-charged and ready to use for immediate convenience.
Cons:
- Charging time may be longer than expected.
2. Brightown Battery for Solar Lights
Brightown’s Batteries are a game-changer for environmentally conscious consumers looking to power their solar lights and household devices efficiently. Each battery in this pack is designed with a 1300mAh high capacity, ensuring that your devices enjoy a longer run time on a single charge compared to traditional batteries. Initially precharged with 30% of their capacity for safety during transportation, these batteries are ready to complete their charge for optimal performance. The ability to recharge these batteries up to 1200 times not only saves you money in the long run but also significantly reduces environmental waste.
Beyond solar lights, these versatile batteries are suitable for a wide range of daily uses, from powering remote controls and wireless mouses to game controllers and digital cameras. Their design for both solar and standard charging underscores their flexibility and commitment to sustainability. By opting for Brightown’s rechargeable batteries, you’re not just choosing a reliable power source for your devices; you’re also making a conscious decision to support eco-friendly energy solutions.
Specifications:
- Battery Cell Composition: NiMH
- Unit Count: 12 Count
- Voltage: 1.2V
- Capacity: 1300mAh
- Recharge Cycles: Up to 1200 times
- Pre-Charged: 30% for safety
Pros:
- High capacity of 1300mAh allows for extended device usage.
- Rechargeable up to 1200 times, offering significant savings over time.
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, enhancing usability.
- Supports both solar and standard charging, adding convenience.
Cons:
- Initial charge is only 30%, requiring immediate charging upon purchase.
3. Tenergy Battery for Solar Lights
Tenergy’s Battery pack offers a practical solution for powering your solar garden lights and other outdoor lighting fixtures. With a 1000mAh capacity, these NiCd batteries provide a reliable source of power, ensuring your garden and landscape areas remain illuminated. Designed specifically for outdoor use, these batteries are compatible with a wide range of solar light brands, making them a versatile choice for your lighting needs. The ability to be recharged up to 500 times not only extends the life of your solar lights but also represents a significant saving compared to the ongoing cost of disposable batteries.
The environmental impact of disposable batteries is a growing concern, and by opting for Tenergy’s rechargeable NiCd batteries, you’re choosing a more sustainable option. These batteries can be charged via solar cell lights or standard charging units, providing flexibility in how you maintain your outdoor lighting. Their durability is further enhanced by their ability to perform across a wide range of temperatures, from -4°F to 140°F, ensuring your garden lights function optimally throughout the seasons.
Specifications:
- Battery Cell Composition: Nickel Cadmium (NiCD)
- Unit Count: 12 Count
- Voltage: 1.2 Volts
- Capacity: 1000 mAh
- Cycle Life: Recharges up to 500 times
- Working Temperature: -4°F to 140°F degree
- Battery Size: Rechargeable AA
Pros:
- Specifically designed for outdoor solar lights, ensuring compatibility and performance.
- Rechargeable up to 500 times, offering significant long-term savings.
- Can be charged using solar power, aligning with eco-friendly energy sources.
- Performs well in a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for all seasons.
Cons:
- Requires a separate charger.
4. GEILIENERGY Batteries For Solar Light
The GEILIENERGY Solar Light AA Ni-CD 600mAh 1.2V Rechargeable Batteries offer an efficient and sustainable power solution for your solar lights and a variety of household devices. Designed for multiple uses, these batteries are perfect for powering solar powered garden lights, landscaping lights, lawn lights, as well as everyday devices such as TV remotes, wireless mice, and gaming controllers. With a higher real capacity than labeled, these AA Ni-CD batteries ensure that your devices run longer on a single charge, making the most of every charge cycle. They are an ideal replacement for standard alkaline AA batteries, offering a money-saving and eco-friendly alternative.
Not only do these batteries help in reducing waste by being rechargeable, but they also come pre-charged and are easy to install, ensuring your solar lights are powered up without delay. By using the power of sunlight to recharge, these batteries align with eco-friendly practices, further emphasizing their environmental benefits. Additionally, the recommendation to fully discharge before recharging helps in maximizing battery life and efficiency, making them a reliable choice for your solar lighting needs.
Specifications:
- Capacity: 600mAh
- Voltage: 1.2V
- Chemistry: NiCd
- Cycle Life: Up to 1500 cycles
- Working Temperature: -4°F to 122°F
- Full Charge Time: 5-6 hours on a sunny day
Pros:
- Higher actual capacity ensures longer device runtimes.
- Rechargeable up to 1500 times, providing great value over time.
- Versatile use across both solar lights and household devices.
- Eco-friendly design supports sustainable energy use.
Cons:
- May require frequent recharging depending on device usage.
5. EBL Batteries for Solar Lights
EBL’s Solar AA Batteries emerge as a stellar choice for powering outdoor solar lights and a range of household devices, thanks to their 1100mAh 1.2V capacity and durability. These NiCAD batteries are not only pre-charged for immediate use but also boast a remarkable cycle life, capable of being recharged up to 500 times. This feature not only extends the lifespan of the batteries but also represents a significant cost-saving over disposable alternatives. Furthermore, EBL batteries maintain 75% of their capacity after 3 years, courtesy of advanced low-self discharge technology, ensuring they’re always ready when you need them.
EBL’s commitment to quality is evident in the batteries’ excellent high-temperature performance, making them suitable for use in a wide range of environments, from -4℉ to 140℉. Whether it’s powering solar lights in a snowy landscape or ensuring your TV remote is always operational, these batteries are designed to charge quickly and last longer, providing reliable performance. Safety is also a priority, with anti-leakage technology and a stainless steel cell construction that effectively prevents leakage and short circuits, making them a safe choice for all your devices.
Specifications:
- Battery Cell Composition: NiCAD
- Unit Count: 20 Count
- Voltage: 1.2V
- Capacity: 1100mAh
- Charging Cycles: Up to 500 times
- High-Temperature Performance: -4℉ to 140℉
- Low Self-Discharge: Holds 75% capacity after 3 years
- Safety Features: Anti-leakage technology with stainless steel cell
Pros:
- High capacity of 1100mAh ensures extended use on a single charge.
- Capable of over 500 recharge cycles, offering significant savings over time.
- Maintains 75% capacity after 3 years, providing long-term reliability.
- Excellent performance across a wide temperature range enhances versatility.
Cons:
- May require a separate charger for optimal performance.
6. HENREEPOW Batteries For Solar Light
Henreepow’s Batteries are a solution for powering your garden landscaping lights and outdoor solar lights, offering a robust 1300mAh capacity to ensure your devices stay illuminated longer. These batteries come pre-charged to 30%, ready for immediate use after a full charge, embodying convenience and efficiency. Designed with safety, reliability, and eco-friendliness in mind, their NiMH composition is a greener choice, reducing waste and avoiding the environmental harm associated with disposable batteries. Whether for your solar string lights, patio step lights, or small electric toys, these batteries provide long-lasting power without frequent replacements.
The Henreepow AA batteries are not only suitable for a wide range of applications but also offer the advantage of being rechargeable up to 1000 times. This feature significantly lowers the cost and environmental impact over time. The ability to charge these batteries via solar lights or any standard AA battery charger adds to their versatility. Their performance is reliable across temperature extremes, from -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring your outdoor lights remain bright throughout the seasons. By choosing Henreepow, you’re opting for a sustainable power source that delivers both performance and peace of mind.
Specifications:
- Battery Cell Composition: NiMH
- Unit Count: 12 Count
- Voltage: 1.2V
- Capacity: 1300mAh
- Rechargeable: Up to 1000 times
- Pre-Charged: 30% power for immediate use
- Temperature Range: -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit
- Lifecycle: Long service time with up to 1200 recharge cycles
Pros:
- High 1300mAh capacity extends device usage time.
- Pre-charged for convenience, ready to use out of the package.
- Can be recharged up to 1000 times, offering significant savings.
- Eco-friendly NiMH composition, reducing environmental impact.
Cons:
- May require several charge cycles to reach optimal performance.
7. POWEROWLBatteries For Solar Lights
POWEROWL’s Batteries set a new standard for solar garden lights and outdoor devices with their impressive 2800mAh capacity, ensuring your devices stay powered for longer. Designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures, these NiMH batteries perform exceptionally well in both hot summers and cold winters, making them suitable for year-round use in all climates. Their high capacity not only provides extended usage times for devices but also promises a long service life, capable of being recharged over 1200 times. This translates to less waste and more savings over the lifespan of the batteries, aligning with eco-friendly practices and reducing the environmental footprint.
The 2020 version of these batteries introduces a new formula that enhances high-temperature resistance, further ensuring reliability and safety in outdoor conditions. Whether for digital cameras, toys, remote controls, or solar garden lights, POWEROWL batteries are designed to meet a variety of household needs. Note that these batteries come pre-charged to 20% for shipping safety and require full charging before first use, reaching peak performance after 3-5 full charge cycles. Their wide application and excellent performance make them a versatile choice for powering both outdoor and indoor devices.
Specifications:
- Battery Cell Composition: NiMH
- Unit Count: 12 Count
- Voltage: 1.2V
- Capacity: 2800mAh
- Recharge Cycles: Over 1200 times
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 140°F
- Pre-Charged: 20% for shipping safety
- Safety: Passed CE certification
Pros:
- High 2800mAh capacity ensures long-lasting power for devices.
- Capable of over 1200 recharge cycles, offering great savings and reduced waste.
- Wide temperature range suitable for all-season use.
- New formula enhances high-temperature resistance for outdoor reliability.
Cons:
- Initial pre-charge level requires charging before first use.
How To Choose The Best Batteries For Solar Lights
1. Types of Batteries
Why It Matters: Choosing the right type of battery for your solar lights is crucial for optimizing their performance, lifespan, and environmental impact. Each battery type offers distinct advantages and limitations, affecting how well your solar lights will function over time.
What to Look For:
- NiMH Batteries: Look for high-quality NiMH batteries with a good balance between capacity and lifespan. They are eco-friendly and offer a decent number of charge cycles. Ensure they are compatible with your solar lights and check for the highest available mAh rating within this type for longer illumination periods.
- NiCd Batteries: Although less common now due to environmental concerns, if you opt for NiCd batteries, focus on proper disposal methods to minimize their environmental impact. Consider them for applications where consistent power output until full discharge is beneficial. Be aware of the memory effect and plan for complete discharge cycles to maintain their efficiency.
- Li-ion Batteries: Ideal for those needing batteries with a high energy density and minimal self-discharge. Look for Li-ion batteries if you prioritize longer run times and faster charging, though be prepared for a higher initial cost. Compatibility with your solar lights is key, as is ensuring the battery size and voltage requirements match.
2. Battery Capacity
Why It Matters: The capacity of a battery dictates how long your solar lights can operate on a single charge. A higher capacity means longer illumination, reducing the frequency of battery replacements and ensuring your outdoor spaces remain lit for extended periods.
What to Look For: Search for batteries with the highest mAh rating that is compatible with your solar lights. Higher mAh ratings equate to longer operation times, so prioritize batteries that offer the best balance between capacity and price to maximize value and performance.
3. Size of the Battery
Why It Matters: The physical size and electrical specifications of a battery must match your solar light requirements. Choosing the incorrect size or type can lead to poor performance or incompatibility, preventing your solar lights from working.
What to Look For: Confirm the size (A, AA, AAA, etc.) and type (rechargeable NiMH, NiCd, Li-ion) required by your solar lights. AA batteries are commonly preferred due to their availability and versatility. It’s also beneficial to choose batteries that can be used across various devices to streamline replacements and reduce waste. Always opt for rechargeable options to enhance sustainability and cost-efficiency
4. Number of Batteries
Why It Matters: The number of batteries you need directly correlates with the number of solar lights you plan to install or maintain. Having an adequate supply ensures that all your lights function optimally and reduces the frequency of purchasing replacements.
What to Look For: Opt for battery packs that offer the best value in terms of quantity and price. Consider the total number of solar lights you have and their battery requirements to select the appropriate pack size. Bulk deals or larger packs can provide cost savings and convenience, especially for extensive setups.
5. Energy Efficiency
Why It Matters: Energy efficiency impacts how long your solar lights will illuminate and how frequently batteries need to be recharged. Efficient batteries maximize the use of solar energy collected, offering longer lighting periods and reduced energy waste.
What to Look For: Look for batteries that charge quickly and retain their charge well over time. Assess the self-discharge rate and opt for batteries that maintain their charge even when not in use for extended periods. This ensures your solar lights are always ready to illuminate your space, even after days of no sunlight.
6. Memory Effect
Why It Matters: The memory effect can significantly reduce the effective capacity of rechargeable batteries over time, especially in NiCd batteries. Understanding this effect is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your solar lighting system.
What to Look For: If using NiCd batteries, it’s important to manage their charging cycles carefully to minimize the memory effect. However, opting for NiMH or Li-ion batteries can be a better choice as they are less prone to this issue. Look for batteries with a low propensity for memory effect or those that can handle partial charges without losing capacity. This ensures your batteries remain efficient and your solar lights perform consistently.
7. Environmental Impact
Why It Matters: The environmental impact of batteries is significant, especially when it comes to disposal. The toxic materials in some batteries, like cadmium in NiCd batteries, can harm the environment and human health if not handled properly.
What to Look For: Opt for batteries with a lower environmental impact, such as NiMH or Li-ion, which contain less toxic materials. Ensure proper disposal by choosing batteries that are recyclable and disposing of them at designated recycling centers. Look for batteries that are labeled as environmentally friendly or have a reduced ecological footprint.
8. Effectiveness in Various Climates
Why It Matters: Solar lights are exposed to the elements, so the batteries must perform under a range of temperatures and weather conditions. Effectiveness in various climates ensures that your solar lights remain operational year-round.
What to Look For: Seek out batteries specified to withstand extreme temperatures and weather variations. Check the product specifications for temperature ranges and choose batteries known for their durability in both hot and cold climates. This ensures your solar lights are reliable, regardless of the weather.
9. Cycle Charges
Why It Matters: The number of cycle charges indicates how many times a battery can be charged and discharged before its capacity significantly decreases. A higher number of cycles means a longer lifespan for the battery, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
What to Look For: Look for batteries with a high number of charge cycles (closer to 2000 or more if possible). This information is usually provided on the battery packaging or in the product description. A higher cycle count offers better value over time and ensures that your solar lights will be supported for longer.
10. Compatibility
Why It Matters: Not all battery types and sizes are suitable for every solar light model. Incorrect batteries can lead to poor performance or even damage to the solar lights. Compatibility ensures that the batteries can effectively power the solar lights without issues.
What to Look For: Before purchasing, check the solar light’s manual or the battery compartment to determine the required battery type and size, usually AA or AAA. Ensure that the batteries you choose match these specifications. If uncertain, taking an old battery for reference when shopping can help avoid compatibility issues. This careful selection ensures your solar lights work efficiently and without interruption.
Batteries for Solar Lights – FAQs
Ans: It won’t be a better idea to use those regular AA batteries in your solar lights. Why because alkaline batteries will power the light for less time, and they die. Usually, solar lights require batteries to charge during daylight and use that power (stored energy) to illuminate the lights at night. So, rechargeable batteries are the perfect option to store the energy and use it to light those LEDs perfectly.
Ans: No, not all batteries are compatible to work properly with the solar lights. So, it is essential to check out your product’s instruction manual or battery compartment before or do some research online to find out the best compatible battery model for your solar lights.
Ans: The same process which we do to install and use those ordinary rechargeable batteries. But check out the specifications mentioned by the manufacturer. For proper installation, you can follow the instructions given on the user manual (or) on the solar lights to know how to install these replacements & rechargeable batteries.
Ans: There is no much difference between these two types of batteries. The only difference is that solar rechargeable batteries get charged by using solar energy, while ordinary batteries can’t. So, if looking for a versatile battery performance for your solar lights, then you have to select the rechargeable variants of battery rather than normal ones.
Ans: It depends completely on the rate of recharging cycle for each battery. For example, if a battery offers 2000 cycles, then it can easily last for a couple of years. Similarly, a battery with a 500 recharge cycle can last less than a year. So, choose them as per your project requirement.
Ans: The best place to buy these batteries includes home improvement stores and hardware stores. These days, you can easily purchase them through online stores like Amazon, where you can find best sellers and deals on the product.
Ans: Just like ordinary rechargeable batteries, you can take of these solar batteries as well. For this, you have to read the instruction manual thoroughly to know how to take proper care and maintenance of your solar batteries for their long-lasting performance.
Conclusion
For those needing batteries for solar lights, we’ve highlighted top picks based on value and performance.
- The Powerowl Batteries stand out with a high capacity of 2800 mAh, ensuring long-lasting power. They come with a 3-year warranty and a pack of 12, offering great reliability and value.
- For a larger quantity at a good price, consider the EBL Batteries, which come in a pack of 20 with a solid 1100 mAh capacity, balancing performance and cost-effectiveness.
- For budget-conscious buyers, the Tenergy Batteries are the most affordable choice, providing a 1000 mAh capacity in a 12-pack, making them suitable for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality.
One Response
Thankyou for giving this information to help in deciding on solar batteries l found this to be interesting & the knowledge that l needed.much appreciated Thankyou