Best Batteries For Solar Lights: Types And Factors

Since its inception, solar energy has emerged as a crucial renewable energy source. Many modern technologies, including solar lights, are powered by it. Batteries for solar lights are valuable assets in many ways.

Solar lights are popular among homeowners and big businesses because they are environmentally friendly and don’t need any upkeep to run for a long time. 

Additionally, they are economical and independent from the grid. They only need strong batteries to run consistently.

Solar batteries have a limited number of charge cycles and may need replacement after a few years. 

With the market staying flooded with many options, it is essential to look for the best batteries for solar lights. Want to know how to buy the best ones? If yes, dive in for answers!

Factors To Consider Before Choosing Batteries For Solar Lights

There are plenty of batteries for solar lights on the market, each possessing different features. It is likely that you might get confused choosing among so many types. 

However, the following factors can help you differentiate the best from the rest. 

#1. The capacity of the battery 

The capacity rate for every solar battery is different. You must select the one that offers the maximum capacity to draw sufficient power during usage. 

Calculating the average output of a battery and multiplying it by the number of days you want it to work without recharging will help you determine the ideal battery capacity you need. 

#2. The durability of the battery 

The best batteries for solar lights should be able to tackle all temperatures, humidity, magnetic field, vibration, and other external factors without affecting their performance. 

If the battery you’re considering purchasing cannot handle such situations, it’s better you search for the one that does. 

#3. Shelf Life of the battery

Different brands offer solar batteries with different shelf lives. You must select the battery that provides the best shelf life to ensure long-term use. 

See the number of charge cycles each battery provides, and whichever offers the best charge cycles is the best for purchase. 

#4. Safety

Batteries must endure high pressure and temperature without exploding or causing failure. 

Generally, the best batteries for solar lights come with a safety certification. The manufacturers test these batteries and check their performance to see if they adhere to government-mandated safety requirements. 

It is advisable not to purchase any battery that does not claim safety.

#5. Chemistry

What goes behind making a battery is essential to determine the right one for purchase. Since different materials have different properties, it is necessary to understand how each material works to increase the battery’s potential and life span. 

Sufficient research on batteries is required to understand the best combination and make the right choice.

8 Best Batteries For Solar Lights

Based on the aforementioned factors, the following are the eight best batteries for solar lights. 

1. Panasonic Eneloop AA Batteries

These batteries offer a lifespan of six years and have ten years of storage life. These are one of the best batteries for solar lights available on the market. 

Although the Panasonic batteries are expensive, they are worth purchasing. They suit all weather conditions and have a robust body. They offer 2100 cycles. 

2. NiMH Rechargeable AA Battery 

This battery comes with a 1-year warranty and 1300 mAh battery capacity. It offers a decent battery life and is highly versatile. The only disadvantage of this battery is that it comes with limited charge cycles. 

3. Energizer Rechargeable AA Battery

This is another effective battery for solar light charging. It is made of durable materials and is long-lasting. 

Besides, it is resistant to cold. It has a lifespan of five years and offers 1500 recharge cycles. It is made of 4% recyclable materials and has a storage capacity of 2000mAh. 

4. EBL AA Rechargeable Battery

This battery is among the top batteries for solar lights. It has a capacity of 1100 mAh. Besides, it comes in economical pricing and has decent battery life. Apart from this, it is lightweight. 

5. Lithium Batteries

For solar LED lighting, Lithium batteries are again a good choice. They are commonly available in the market and are far more sustainable than lead-acid batteries. 

These batteries for solar lights do not require regular maintenance and provide 500 to 800 charge-discharge cycles.  

6. Nickel Cadmium Batteries (NiCd)

Nickel-cadmium batteries can last for one or two years with minimal maintenance. These batteries are best for use in solar garden lights. 

They are rated at 1.2 V / 500 to 900mA. The only drawback of these batteries is that they need careful disposal to avoid the release of harmful toxins into the environment. 

7. Lithium-Ion Phosphate Battery

The Lithium-Ion Phosphate battery provides optimum functionality and can last for 9-12 years. It is compact and comes at affordable pricing. 

The best part about these batteries is that they are safe and can withstand high temperatures without breaking or cracking. 

8. Tenergy AA Rechargeable Battery

This battery is lightweight and can resist high temperatures. It comes at a pocket-friendly price and offers a 1000 mAh battery capacity. 

Besides, it provides 500 charge cycles. It is amongst the best-selling batteries for solar lights in the market. 

Conclusion

It is crucial to use good-quality batteries for solar lights. All solar light batteries have their advantages and disadvantages. 

While some might be more efficient, others might be cheaper and safer than their peers. Therefore, evaluate these factors and select the right batteries for solar lights to make the best investment. 

FAQs

Q1. How does mAh matter in solar lights?

mAh is crucial for determining the energy a battery can supply for charging solar lights. The more the mAh, the higher the battery’s capacity will be. 

If the capacity of the battery is high, it will run for a long time. If it is low, it will require more charging time to operate. 

Q2. Are batteries important for solar lights?

Yes, batteries are quite crucial for solar lights. Without them, solar light will not function. The solar lights are off-grid, so the batteries enable them to operate for hours. 

Q3. Is it possible to use 1.2 V batteries instead of 3.2 V batteries for solar lights?

No, replacing batteries for solar lights with different energy capacities is impossible. The 1.2 V battery will not work the same in a solar light that requires a 3.2 V battery. 

It is important to get a battery that suits the energy demand of the lights to make them work efficiently in solar lights.  

If a solar light requires 3.2 V battery energy, it requires only the battery that caters to this requirement.