Others have the lights separate from a solar cell panel, in which case only the panel needs to be placed in a sunny location. Some solar lighting systems are self-contained units: You only need to place the lights in a sunny location. Insufficient battery charging will not only affect performance, it also may reduce the life of the battery.

If the solar cells are shaded by landscape features (such as trees and buildings), battery charging and performance will also be affected. Operating times in the winter months may vary as much as 30%–50% unless the solar lighting system has been sized specifically for winter operation. Nightly run times may also vary depending on how clear the sky is on any given day. Outdoor solar lights located in places that receive less sunlight than the solar cells need will operate for fewer hours per night than expected. The 'nightly run time' listings on most outdoor solar lighting systems are based on specific sunlight conditions. A solar lighting system will work well only as long as the solar cells receive the manufacturer's recommended hours of sunlight. However, it is important to consider geographic and site-specific variables when choosing a product. Outdoor solar lighting systems work well in most areas of the United States. Manufacturers most commonly use nickel cadmium, sealed lead acid, and lead acid batteries. The electricity is stored in batteries for use at night. Outdoor solar lighting systems use solar cells, which convert sunlight into electricity.

Do solar lights work in the winter