Why Your Solar Lights Aren’t Working (And How to Fix Them)

Why Your Solar Lights Aren’t Working (And How to Fix Them)

If you've ever stepped into your garden at dusk expecting a gentle glow from your solar lights, only to be greeted by darkness - you’re not alone.

Many of us invest in solar lighting thinking it’ll be a fuss-free way to bring a little charm and safety to our outdoor spaces. But when the lights don’t come on, or they flicker out halfway through the evening, it’s easy to assume they’re faulty or just not worth the effort.

Here’s the good news: most solar lighting issues are easy to fix - and even easier to avoid with the right product.

Whether you’ve picked up a few stake lights from the local garden centre, or bought an online bargain, here are five common reasons your solar lights might be letting you down—and how to get them glowing again.

1. They’re Not Getting Enough Sunlight

Let’s start with the obvious but often overlooked problem: placement.

Solar panels need direct sunlight to charge properly. That means at least 6-8 hours of bright daylight, ideally unshaded. If your lights are stuck under a tree, nestled behind a shed, or even shaded by a fence most of the day, they’re simply not going to get what they need.

Quick Fix: Move them to a sunnier spot, ideally facing south or west. Even a small shift can make a huge difference.

2. Batteries Have Had Their Day

Most solar lights come with rechargeable batteries inside - and like all batteries, they wear out over time (usually after 1-2 years).

If your lights worked well last summer but are now dim or completely dead, a tired battery is likely the culprit.

Quick Fix: Open the battery compartment (usually under the solar panel), and pop in fresh rechargeable batteries. Avoid regular disposable batteries - they won’t charge!

3. The Solar Panel Is Dirty

Dust, grime, and even bird droppings can block the solar panel from absorbing light - especially after a wet winter or pollen-heavy spring.

Quick Fix: Give your solar panel a gentle wipe with a damp cloth and a bit of soapy water every month or so.

4. Sensors Are Being Confused

Most solar lights come with a light sensor that tells them when to turn on. But if there’s ambient light from a porch, a streetlamp, or even another garden feature nearby, they may think it’s still daytime.

Quick Fix: Test the sensor by covering it with your hand or a tea towel. If the light comes on, it’s working - just being tricked. Try moving the unit somewhere darker at night.

The Takeaway

A lot of solar light problems are down to simple, solvable issues — not bad luck or bad weather. Before you toss them out, try these quick fixes.

And if you’re ready to replace your old unreliable ones, consider exploring our bestselling solar lights - built to last, beautifully designed, and tested for UK weather.