Start by testing the light, just to be sure that it is indeed broken by covering the solar panel, making the unit think it is night time and, if the solar light is in good working order, it'll work.

Sometimes the problem could be something quite simple, such as another source of light hitting the solar panel, giving the impression that there is still daylight. A quick remedy for this situation is to place the panel somewhere where this particular light source can’t get to it. If, however, the answer isn't so straight forward here are some potential solutions:

• Battery Replacement - Some outdoor solar lights come with rechargeable batteries which charge when it's light and then use the stored energy at night. Rechargeable batteries do, unfortunately though, lose their charging ability so if you notice that the light stays lit for shorter periods of time, even after being fully charged, it’s a safe assumption that this is the issue. The lifespan of a good quality battery is approximately two years.

  • The Battery Strip - If the battery isn’t touching the terminal contacts it won’t charge. If you find that your battery isn't connected to the strip then recharge it for a few days before turning your solar light back on.

• Beware Of Shadows - Shadowed areas over the lights’ solar panel is a big no-no, particularly in and around midday when the sun is at its highest. Check the solar panel every couple of months to see that it isn’t affected by too much shade at this time of day. If you’ve fitted your solar panel in the middle of summer, this is when the shadows will be at their shortest but as seasons change and the sun gets lower in the sky, shadows get longer.

• The Angling of Your Solar Panel - The angle of the solar panel is a key element in the length of time your light will burn. This is particularly true during the winter months when the sun is at its lowest. The optimal angle for your panel is 45°.

• Is It Facing South? - Just like satellite dishes, solar panels work best when pointed in the right direction. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west so having your panel south-facing will allow it to get sunlight from the morning right through to evening time. Your solar light will work even if not facing south but it won’t be at full capacity.

• Water Ingress/Intrusion - A Solar light can have issues with water ingress but a well designed solar light shouldn't suffer these problems. Check the IP rating before buying, look for the rating which will provide the best protection

  • If you do end up with a moisture problem here are some things you can do:

    • Take off the light covering and check for moisture buildup, then put the solar light in your airing cupboard for a day or two to help it to dry out. When putting it back together check that the batteries are in place and charge it for a few days before using again.

    • Keep to the manufacturer's instructions. If your unit has been correctly installed and includes a warranty with a water ingress stipulation, getting in contact with the manufacturer with photographic evidence of the problem so they can replace your light shouldn't be an issue.

    • On/Off - Does this one seem really obvious? Some solar lights have power switches, so, for these models, make sure it is in the ‘on’ position.

    • Is It Plugged In? - Again, seemingly obvious but people still make this basic mistake. Some outdoor solar lights have the batteries in the solar panel and some have them in the head of the light but essentially it boils down to the same thing - if a battery can’t charge or there’s not enough charge getting from the battery to the lamp then it won’t work to its maximum capacity.

  • Using mains power - using a mains charger or taking the batteries out to charge them by the mains is only a good idea as long as you use the one that came with the light. Solar panels have a very specific voltage, compatible with the circuitry and voltage of the battery. The wrong mains charger could damage the circuits or charge the batteries too much, irreparably damaging your light.

• Passive (PIR or infra-red) Solar Lights - Some of the more advanced solar lights have finely tuned sensitive motion detectors which can be programmed so that your pet or other small animals won't set it off. Factors to consider when installing a solar light:

  • The height at which you are planning to install the unit

  • Its’ proximity to the movements you’re aiming to have it detect

  • Whether the motion moves across the field of view of the PIR

If your solar light doesn't work when needed, start a test run, beginning with the highest level of sensitivity and reducing the strength bit by bit until the light is working at the level you want.

• Charging behind a window - Although we could easily sit at a window and get benefits from the sun, the same can't be said of solar panels. More often than not, modern homes have double and even sometimes triple glazed windows, so the rays of the sun hitting the solar panel are completely useless. Outside is always the best place to position the panel, with adequate access to sunlight.

• Grubby solar panel - You might sometimes find the performance of your solar panel dipping over time due to a buildup of dirt and dust. A quick clean using a damp cloth every now and then will remedy that.

• Cleaning the lights’ cover - Clean the see-through casing both inside and out with soapy water, get rid of any bugs, and dry it off.

If, after following these steps,  your unit still isn’t working it may be time to get in touch with the company.  Your warranty is still valid you should be given a replacement without any issues.

A Step Further:

Before taking any further action you first need to be aware that interfering with the internal workings of your solar light and panel will invalidate your warranty but if you’re confident enough that you can deal with the problem and none of the above fixes have worked then here’s what to do:

Take The Light Fitting Apart - The majority of lights are held together with screws fitted around the edges which will need to be removed. The covering of the light which is usually glass or plastic may twist apart so don’t forget to check for that.

Once opened, take away any large removable parts, making sure you take note of how to reassemble them for when you’re finished. If the unit has rechargeable batteries then remove these also (recharge the batteries once removed). If they are soldered into place then leave them where they are.

The circuitry - Check the circuit for any damage. Look for something that could be preventing the circuit from working such as broken wires or rust. If you can, try and replace the damaged parts. If you don’t have a soldering iron and spare wires then, using wire cutters, strip the wires back and twist the ends together. If you have a broken switch, cut it out and again twist the wires together. If the LED is dull, consider removing it and replacing it with a like for like LED.

Re-assembly - Put the now repaired and cleaned parts together again, as well as the batteries which, at this point, should be at least partially charged. Put your finger over the resistor which is usually found next to the panel, then switch it on. If the LED lights up then you have successfully fixed your solar light.