How to Install a Solar-Panel Security Light
Follow our easy steps to install a solar-panel security light.
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Materials and Tools
- security light with solar panel
- drill
- small drill bit
- ladder
- compass
- hammer
Pick a Security Light
A typical solar light kit includes an installation manual, the light fixture with power cord, a solar panel with power cord and fastening hardware.
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Determine Location
Use a compass or compass app to determine where to install the solar panel. You need to install it towards the sun, typically facing south in North America. Keep the cord distance in mind when determining where to install the light and solar panel. Most fixtures allow several feet of cord between the light and the solar panel for flexibility and ease of installation.
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Drill Holes
Mark with a pencil the location where you will install the panel, using the mounting brackets on the solar panel as a guide (Image 1). Drill pilot holes at the marks (Image 2). The bit should be appropriate for the material you're drilling into (masonry, wood, etc.) and slightly smaller in diameter than your mounting hardware.
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 1
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 2
Install Panel
Secure the bracket to the wall or eave with the provided hardware and a drill (Image 1), then slide the solar panel onto the bracket (Image 2).
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 1
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 2
Run Cords
Run the cord off the panel along the eaves, or hide them inside a wall. We tucked ours underneath the roof line.
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Install Security Light
Drill pilot holes at the preferred location, using the light's mounting brackets as a guide as you did with the solar panel (Image 1). Again, the bit should be appropriate for the material and slightly smaller in diameter than your mounting hardware. Once the light is secured, make any adjustments to the fixture or bulbs, timers and motion control settings (Image 2).
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 1
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 2
Connect Cords
Plug the solar panel cord into the fixture cord, then secure the remaining cords along the trim or eaves to help conceal cords. We used cable clips and a hammer to secure the power cord along a piece of trim.
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 1
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
Image 2
Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions
