Solar pillar lighting is an increasingly common fixture in the landscaping industry. The concern for the environment leads more consumers to seek out alternative lighting. And that’s powered by electricity. Below, we’ve rounded up our top options for solar pillar lights. They come with information to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Top Recommendation
The Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Post Light Fixture
This is one of our favorite modern pillar lights because it provides a balance of the great design. It has efficient functionality and affordability. It’s sized well to illuminate large gardens with dimensions of 6.1 by 6.1 by 17.8 inches.
Also, this outdoor fixture includes rechargeable batteries. These batteries will work to power the LED bulb in the case of the solar power running out.
However, solar power should last for six to eight hours. It will automatically turn on at dusk and turn back off when the sun rises.
Upgrade Option
Smart Light Extra Large Solar Post Cap in Antique Brown
This pillar light has an ornate design and extra-large dimensions. It features four solar panels and the option to connect the light to electricity using wires.
LED bulbs are used to light up this lamp and the entire structure is made from metal and glass.
With its intricate, visually interesting design, this post cap is recommended for use in your entryway and other prominent areas of your garden.
Value Option
Davinci Premium Solar LED Post Cap Light
The Davinci solar post cap is small and affordable. It makes use of warm white LED bulbs in a simple, traditional design. The body is made with diecast aluminum and tempered glass encases the LED bulb.
This fixture has also earned an IP44 weatherproof distinction. It is a notable feature considering its low price.
Alternative Option
Creative Industries Solar Hand-Painted Iron Post Lantern
This outdoor lantern from Creative Industries has a singular design with antique touches. The aged-iron finish, seedy textured glass, and square structure make this lantern look vintage.
However, it features a weather-resistant construction with solar and LED technology for energy-efficient lighting. It may not coordinate with everyone’s landscaping decor, but it’s an interesting product for those seeking a unique option.
The shift to solar power has been a marked one over the past several years. Solar power is preferred by many people for its lessened impact on the environment. Especially when compared to other sources of energy, such as gas, oil, and electricity.
When you need outdoor pillar lights, it’s the perfect opportunity to go solar. These light fixtures will be installed outside. Therefore, it will receive plenty of sunlight. You can take advantage of that sunlight by harnessing it during the day. Then use it to power your garden pillar lights at night.
Learning more about solar power will help you understand its benefit in landscaping. Consider watching this video from Brown University about the functionality of solar cells.
There are key features that set apart the best solar pillar lighting options from the rest. But, the right product for you will also depend on your home’s outdoor landscaping. So, when shopping for pillar light fixtures, keep the following factors in mind.
The dimensions of pillar mount lights are a crucial feature to consider. Make sure that the light fixture will match the dimensions of your pillar. That is to ensure that the light will fit into your outdoor decor. Plus, stone pillar lights with the right size for your posts or pillars will be simple to install. Sizing issues with light fixtures may make installation tricky.
Style and Design
The style and design of landscape pillar lighting is a major factor to consider as it affects the aesthetics of your yard or garden. We all want our homes to be welcoming and beautiful. So attractive garden landscaping may help you reach that goal. So, consider the style of your outdoor pillar lamps. Do you prefer a sleek, simple design, or one that’s eye-catching and ornate?
Outdoor light fixtures are usually made in neutral tones, most commonly black. But brown or gray that may more closely coordinate with the existing decor in your garden.
A pillar mount spotlight also has a finish that may differ from product to product. Some post lights have textured finishes, while others are smooth. A textured finish provides a vintage aesthetic. Take note that a smooth finish is modern and streamlined.
Durability is crucial when shopping for outdoor pillar lights. This is because the weather can cause damage. Of course, climates can vary. Some regions receive a high volume of extreme weather, while others just have mild weather. Either way, you may want to make sure that the fixture you select is able to withstand the elements for years to come.
Not all materials are weather-proof, and certain metals are sturdier than others. Aluminum is a common metal for outdoor lighting because it’s budget-friendly and lightweight. However, over time, aluminum oxidizes and corrode from rain, snow, and other weather. So, it may be a good choice for people on a budget who are open to the idea of replacing the fixtures in the future.
Copper and brass aren’t as affordable as aluminum but are good choices for outdoor fixtures. This is because of their sturdiness. These metals are harder than aluminum and are highly resistant to all types of weather. Brass and copper solar lighting may be the right choice for long-term homeowners willing to invest in their landscaping.
Lifespan of the LED Light
Stone pillar solar lights today most commonly use LED bulbs. LED bulbs are more efficient than traditional incandescent light bulbs because they burn less energy to create the same amount of light (Source). The combination of solar power and LED bulbs maximizes the energy-efficiency of outdoor lighting.
To ensure that you get a high-quality LED bulb with your patio pillar lights, consider the bulb life. Most LED bulbs, including LED pillar lights, have a lifespan of 25,000 to 50,000 hours (to give you an idea of the energy-efficiency of regular bulbs in comparison to LED, average incandescent light bulbs have a life of about 1,000 to 2,000 hours) (Source
Gives off a warm white LED glow that won’t strain your eyes.design.
The unique antique brown finish makes it stand out.
Compatible with posts measuring four or six inches.
It has large dimensions to mark major entryways.
Shopping around for solar column pillar lights will show you that there are more options to choose from than you may have initially thought. After sifting through the available options, It’s clear that the Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Light Post Fixture is the all-around winner. It’s one of the most affordable options available in its size range, with large enough dimensions to illuminate many garden and patio sizes.
It enables you to either use a round base or a square one, opening up numerous opportunities for various landscaping setups. The solar power can last a standard 6 to 8 hours, or the majority of the night (if not all of it). Plus, the classic black style of this solar light fixture may coordinate well with many different types of decor. From style to functionality to affordability, this Kemeco solar light ticks every box.