The main difference between solar and wired lighting is their power source – solar is from the sun, while wired lights use your home’s energy. Your choice will depend on which source is available to you, as well as your lighting needs.
It is worth knowing the difference between wired and solar lighting, because it makes a major difference in the degree of lighting in your home.
What are the differences between solar and Wired lighting?
| Solar | Wired | |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Very easy for DIY installation | They require electrical installation |
| Power source | The sun | Transformer and 120V home outlet |
| Reliability | Work optimally in sunny weather | Work in all weather conditions |
Solar vs Wired lighting – How do they compare?
- Power source – Solar relies on the sun’s energy, so the only items you require to harness it are a series of solar cells and a storage battery. Wired energy, on the other hand, relies on your home’s main power grid source.
- Installation – Solar power sources are very easy to install. The wired options will require an electrician, as they deal with higher power loads and are more dangerous to install on your own.
- Reliability – Solar energy has great reliability, as long as you live in a place with sunny weather most of the year. It will not function as optimally on cloudy days though, as opposed to wired landscape light setups that can work all-year.
Solar vs Wired lighting – A comparison review
Solar outdoor lighting
When solar energy hits solar panels, this generates heat which creates movement in the cell’s negatively charged silicone electrons. This movement is in the form of electric currents which move to a storage battery.
Pros
- It helps you save on energy bills, as it does not require electric outlets
- Environmental friendliness
- Uses various designs, depending on budget
- You can do a DIY installation
Cons
- Might not be efficient if it is cloudy
- Does not offer the same brightness as other options
- Color temperature versatility is unavailable
- Recharging batteries takes a long time
Wired outdoor lighting
Any wired system must connect to low voltage transformers that connect to the main power grid through underground cable, so you cannot do a DIY installation. However, you can rely on it to power your home’s outdoor environment regardless of weather conditions.
Pros
- They can work anywhere, as long as there is a main power source nearby
- Very reliable performance
- Endless customizations and options available
- Maintain a long lifespan with little maintenance
Cons
- Expensive to install
Verdict: So, which is better for your outdoor lighting needs? Solar or Wired?
Looking at both light sources, you may want to choose solar because of affordability – but wired lighting is a much better choice due to its reliability and convenience that fits all your preferences and needs, including security – a major consideration when deciding on outdoor landscape lights.
FAQs
Does solar light installation need wires?
No, it does not, so you can install them anywhere as long as ample sunlight is available.
How many lights will I need for my outdoor lighting?
It will depend on specific jobs, as it is a case-by-case basis.