Q: What kind of products does Solarlight.co.za offer? A: We specialize in high-quality, high-efficiency lighting and power solutions, including AC-powered LED lights, Solar-Powered LED Lights (flood lights, street lights), and advanced MPPT Solar Charge Controllers. Our products are designed for commercial and industrial applications that require reliable, long-lasting illumination and off-grid power.
Q: How do your solar-powered LED lights work? A: Our solar lighting systems use a photovoltaic (PV) panel to absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity, which is stored in a Lithium-Ion battery during the day. An intelligent controller (often MPPT technology) manages the charging and monitors ambient light. Once the sun sets, the controller automatically draws power from the battery to illuminate the highly efficient LED light fixture.
Q: What is the benefit of choosing Solarlight.co.za’s products? A: Our products offer superior quality and innovation due to our commitment to in-house design and manufacturing. We focus on high efficiency by using components like low-voltage 3.2V Lithium-Ion cells and highly efficient power conversion topologies. This ensures longer-lasting brightness and rugged performance, especially important for commercial and security lighting.
Technical & Performance
Q: What is MPPT technology and why is it important for solar lights? A: MPPT stands for Maximum Power Point Tracking. An MPPT charge controller is an advanced system that finds the precise voltage and current at which the solar panel delivers its maximum power output at any given moment. This allows the battery to be charged up to 30% faster and more efficiently, particularly in varied weather conditions, compared to basic PWM controllers.
Q: How long will a fully charged solar light run for? A: The runtime depends on the specific product model and its battery capacity, but on a full charge after a day of optimal sun exposure, our high-efficiency units are designed to provide all-night illumination (typically 8 to 12 hours) or operate for several nights on a lower setting.
Q: Do solar lights still charge on cloudy or rainy days? A: Yes. Solar panels can still absorb and convert diffused sunlight into electricity, even on overcast days, though the charging efficiency is reduced. Our high-efficiency components and MPPT technology are designed to maximize the energy captured, ensuring the batteries remain charged for reliable nighttime operation.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of the components? A: Solar lighting components have long lifespans:
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Solar Panels: Typically last 20-25 years with minimal degradation.
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LED Fixtures: Have a lifespan of over 50,000 hours.
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Batteries (Lithium-Ion): Depending on the model and usage, they typically last between 5 and 7 years before needing replacement.
Installation & Maintenance
Q: Where should I install the solar panels for optimal performance? A: The solar panel should be placed in an area that receives direct, unobstructed sunlight for a minimum of 6 to 8 hours per day. Avoid placement under trees, overhangs, or next to other light sources that could interfere with the light sensor.
Q: Are the solar lights waterproof? A: Yes, our outdoor solar lights are built with durable, weatherproof enclosures. Most units carry an IP rating (e.g., IP65) which signifies they are protected against dust ingress and water jets (rain) from any direction.
Q: What kind of maintenance do the lights require? A: Solar lights are low-maintenance. The primary requirement is to regularly clean the surface of the solar panel using a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dirt, dust, or debris. This ensures optimal sun absorption and charging efficiency.
Load Shedding & Off-Grid Use
Q: Are Solarlight.co.za’s products suitable for mitigating load shedding? A: Absolutely. One of the key benefits of our solar-powered lights and MPPT charge controllers in South Africa is that they are completely off-grid. They charge during the day and operate at night, making them reliable for security and illumination during scheduled or unscheduled power outages (load shedding).
Q: Can your MPPT Charge Controllers power other low-voltage equipment? A: Yes. Our MPPT charge controllers are designed to efficiently provide a stable control output voltage (e.g., 12V or 24V). This makes them ideal for powering auxiliary low-voltage products such as CCTV cameras, access control systems, and alarm systems, providing essential backup during power interruptions.