Choose a position where the panel receives direct sunlight for the product's charging requirements. Trees, walls and roof overhangs can reduce the available light.
Browse solar outdoor lightsAre solar lights easy to install?
Installing solar lights is a simple DIY project that enhances your outdoor spaces without electrical wiring. This guide walks you through each step to ensure your lights are correctly placed, fully charged, and performing their best for any season or setting.
Before you place the light
Start with sun, surface and purpose
Solar fittings are simple to place, but the installation still needs a little planning. The panel needs useful daylight, the light needs a stable mounting point and the product type must match the area you want to illuminate.
Use stakes in suitable soil, or fix wall and floodlight products to a stable surface with the correct hardware. Do not rely on a loose or vibrating mount.
See solar wall lightsPath markers, entrance lighting and driveway coverage need different shapes and light distribution. Pick the fitting for the area, not only for its appearance.
Compare garden spike lightsChoose by application
Which solar light suits the space?
| Area | Useful starting point | What to check | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrance or front door | Solar wall light | Mounting surface, sensor behaviour, light direction and the product's outdoor rating. | Shop solar wall lights |
| Driveway or dark corner | Solar floodlight | Panel position, coverage, aiming, cable route if the panel is separate, and charging conditions. | Compare solar floodlights |
| Path, border or planting bed | Solar spike or bollard | Ground stability, spacing, shade from planting and whether the light is intended for guidance or accent. | Browse spike lights |
Technical note: IP ratings, run time, charging time, sensor behaviour and light output vary by product. Use the individual listing as the authority before installation.
Verified starting points
Three ways to add light without trenching
These live products cover different outdoor jobs. Each card links to the matching listing so you can check the current specifications before ordering.
For driveways and entrances
This 16W solar LED floodlight is listed at 1,600 lumens with a motion sensor and IP65 rating. Its separate panel gives you more flexibility when the best daylight falls away from the wall or gate.
View the solar floodlight
For doors and steps
This outdoor solar LED sensor wall lamp is listed with 3.3W output, 400 lumens, a 3000K warm-white setting and IP44 protection. Check the mounting position and the product's stated modes for the entrance.
View the solar wall lamp
For paths and garden edges
This outdoor solar bollard is listed at 3.3W, 400 lumens and IP44, with an 840mm height. It is suited to marking a route or boundary where the ground can hold the fitting securely.
View the solar bollardInstallation checklist
Six checks before the first night
Check the panel position
Confirm that the panel receives the daylight the product needs. Test the proposed location at the time of day when nearby shade is most likely.
Keep the fitting stable
Push spikes into firm ground and use a suitable fixing method for walls. The light should not move in wind or when someone brushes past it.
Turn the switch on
Many solar lights need the switch set to ON before they can charge and activate automatically. Follow the product instructions rather than assuming the control layout.
Allow the first charge
Give the battery time to charge in daylight before judging the night-time result. A cloudy day or newly unpacked battery can affect the first cycle.
Keep the panel clear
Dust, leaves and overgrown planting reduce the light reaching the panel. Wipe it gently and keep the surface exposed during the season.
Use an electrician for mains work
Solar products avoid a mains connection at the fitting, but any separate electrical work on the property should be handled by a qualified electrician.
Need a second opinion?
Send us the area before you choose
Share a photo of the mounting point, the approximate area to cover and how much direct sun it receives. We can help narrow the product type and point you towards the relevant specifications.