MMC Blog
Solar vs. Low Voltage Post Lights
Once you’ve selected the perfect railing for your outdoor space, you might be asking yourself, How can I illuminate my outdoor oasis, day or night? If you’re looking for outdoor lighting to boost your curbside appeal, increase home security, and generally brighten up your space, post lights could be the perfect option. While there are many different kinds of post lights available, solar and low voltage lights are two of the most common types. But what are the benefits of solar vs. low voltage post lights? Read on to find out which kind of lighting is the best option for your property.
Solar vs. Low Voltage Post Lights
What Are Post Lights?
First, what differentiates post lights from other kinds of outdoor lighting? The difference is in the name: post lights are typically mounted on surfaces like posts, railings, and stands. This stylish outdoor lighting option usually involves a light that rests on an integrated post, like a railing, or a separate post, like a standing lamplight. You can easily install post lights throughout your property; for example, along pathways and patios or decks. Post lights offer a light source that makes your property ideal for entertaining. Additionally, they help brighten up the space around your home, making your property less attractive to sneaky burglars.
Solar Post Lights
What are the benefits of solar vs. low voltage post lights? First, solar post lights are an excellent option if you’re looking for flexible outdoor lighting. These lights draw energy from the sun, meaning you can place them anywhere – even in areas without existing electrical outlets. With that in mind, solar post lights are exceedingly easy to install. As you might imagine, solar post lights also offer significant cost savings; after all, they don’t contribute to your electric bill. Finally, most solar lights use LED bulbs, which are incredibly long-lasting and will help you save on replacement costs. Unfortunately, solar post lights need direct sunlight to function at their best, so they may not function as well in cloudy areas or shady spots. Solar post lights may also not be as bright as low voltage electric lights.
Low Voltage Post Lights
Low voltage post lights offer stellar illumination throughout your outdoor space. While not as energy-efficient as solar lighting, low voltage lighting is a more eco-friendly option. It requires only 12 volts, which is significant when compared to other lighting that may run directly from a 120-volt home outlet. Instead, low voltage lights are typically powered by an external transformer that concerts high voltage to lower votage. As you might imagine, low voltage lights offer added illumination and power, although they can be more expensive to install. Low voltage lights are often a better choice for shaded areas or homes in areas with frequent cloud coverage.
Can I Install Post Lights Myself?
Once you’ve decided which type of post light makes sense for your home, you might be interested in installing the lights yourself. While solar post lights are typically an easy do-it-yourself project, some low voltage post lights may require a professional’s help since they involve an external power source. Either way, our customer service experts can walk you through the next steps as you work to illuminate your space.
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What are the benefits of solar vs. low voltage post lights? That depends largely on your home’s needs. Either way, both types of post light are an excellent investment, lighting up your outdoor space and adding an additional layer of security to your home.
Do you have more questions about post lights or railings for your outdoor space? When you need an expert who can help you select a new railing or railing accessories like post lights, MMC Fencing & Railing is here for you. In our online shop, we sell aluminum and vinyl railing in a variety of styles and colors, as well as a variety of post lighting options. So no matter what you’re looking for and no matter how large or small your budget, you’re sure to find something beautiful. Give us a call at 866-931-5002 to get started or to ask about installation options. We look forward to hearing from you!
