As the warm weather approaches, many of us look forward to spending more time outside. Whether it’s enjoying meals on the deck, sipping coffee in the morning sun, or entertaining friends and family, having a functional outdoor space can make a big difference. And with the right lighting, the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down. Solar post cap lights can make the outdoor space appealing.
Solar lights are a great option for illuminating your outdoor space. Not only do they eliminate the need for a direct electrical connection or frequent battery changes, but they also come in a range of brightness levels and materials to suit your needs. We’ll be sharing some of the best solar post cap lights available on the market, including options for different styles and budgets.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Solar Post Cap Lights
When shopping for solar post cap lights, consider these factors to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size
The size and shape of your fence/deck post will impact the size of solar post cap lights you need. Before buying, take accurate measurements and reference the product information and manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure a proper fit. Most solar post cap lights are designed to fit over the top of a fence or deck post, but some require different mounting methods, such as attaching directly to the side of the post or using a bracket specifically made for round posts.
Material
These lights are made with different materials that offer unique appearances and protection for the electrical components. Plastic is an inexpensive and durable option that can be made to resemble metal and is resistant to water and temperature fluctuations. Aluminum and cast aluminum are commonly used for a high-quality appearance but are less resistant to rain, sleet, and snow. Glass is typically used for ornamental panes and is safe from rust and corrosion but is fragile and can easily be broken.
Weather Resistance
Solar post cap lights are designed to withstand inclement weather, but the level of resistance varies between products. Look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating to determine the level of resistance to dust, dirt, debris, rain, sleet, and snow. The rating system ranges from 0 to 6 for solids and 0 to 9 for water resistance. A water-resistance rating between 5 and 7 is suitable for solar post cap lights.
Brightness
The brightness of the light is an important factor to consider when choosing solar post cap lights. Look for lumens, which measure the brightness of the light. Solar lights can range from 5 lumens to more than 200 lumens, but the cost typically increases with the number of lumens. Consider adding multiple low-brightness lights to achieve the desired brightness.
Battery and Charging Time
Solar lights use internal batteries that impact the run time and charging time. The batteries typically take 6 to 8 hours to fully charge and provide light for 6 to 10 hours, depending on the product. Inclement weather can reduce efficiency, but solar post cap lights will still charge during the day.
Aesthetic
Consider the aesthetic appearance of solar post cap lights to match your deck and yard decor. Lantern-style lights have a classic appearance and may have plastic or glass panes. Faux weathered finishes offer a classic or antique appearance and are commonly made with cast aluminum. Honeycomb covers direct light down and out to each side and are used for lights that attach to the side of the post or fence boards. Modern solar post cap lights have a sleek appearance, while spherical lights give off light at nearly 360 degrees. Flame effects can be added for a comforting ambiance.
Our Top Picks
As I researched the best solar post cap lights, I considered several factors, including quality, price, and design. Here are my top picks:
1. CaiFang Solar Post Lights Outdoor, 2 Pack
This two-pack of water-resistant solar post cap lights comes in three different color options, including black, bronze, or silver, so users can find the ideal look for their yard, deck, or patio. These lights can be installed on 4-inch by 4-inch posts, 6-inch by 6-inch posts, and even on flat surfaces, so they can be added to the top of the railing instead of trying to slot them over a fence or deck post. These lights each output 10 lumens of light, giving the yard a comfortable look and feel as day turns to night. These lights take about 6 to 8 hours to fully charge, but once fully charged, the light can last for up to 10 hours each night.
2. OTHWAY Solar Fence Post Lights Wall Mount, 4 Packs
These affordable solar lights come in a pack of four and mount directly to the side of a post, a fence, or even to a wall. The flat back can be attached with just two screws. Each produces about 12 lumens of light, displaying it in a decorative pattern that looks appealing as the sky begins to fade to night. Using multiples of this light can create brighter lighting. Like most solar lights, these are designed with a built-in sensor that detects whether it’s day or night so that the lights don’t continue shining when they can’t be seen. The lights are made of ABS plastic and take about 6 hours to fully charge. Once charged, they work for between 4 and 8 hours on each charge.
3. Kemeco ST4311AQ LED Cast Aluminum Solar Post Light
Bringing an antique elegance to the deck or the yard, the Kemeco solar post cap light is capable of blending technology with the outdoors without detracting from the natural setting. It comes with four top-mounted solar panels that can recharge the light in 6 to 8 hours. However, upon first use, the light should be charged for a full 24 hours before selecting the “on” setting. The vintage lantern-style solar post cap light is made with cast aluminum and glass panes. This solar post cap light also comes with a 3-inch round base for circular posts or a 5.5-inch by 5.5-inch base for square posts. The bright 130 to 150 lumens make this a great choice for stand-alone light posts in the garden, at the base of the driveway, or on the steps leading up to the house.
4. FOOYANCHO Solar Post Cap Lights – Outdoor – (1 Pack)
The FOOYANCHO solar post cap light is designed with a modern appearance. This appearance resembles an upside-down pyramid with a flat, squared top to gather energy from the sun and a tapered, frosted plastic lamp that connects to the circular base. The base is made to be installed on top of the post so it can be used with posts of almost any size or shape as long as it exceeds 4.5 inches by 4.5 inches for a squared post or 4.5 inches in diameter for a round post.
These solar lights take about 6 hours to charge during the day and provide 6 to 8 hours of light when the sun has gone down. Each light is capable of producing around 100 lumens of light, and the aluminum and plastic construction has an IP65 water-resistance rating so users can be confident that the lights won’t be damaged by rain, sleet, or snow.
5. MAGGIFT 15 Lumen Solar Post Lights, 2 Pack
For those looking to illuminate the yard but don’t want the decorative shapes and sizes common with standard and lantern-style lights, this pack of two solar post cap lights is a great choice. The lights have a low profile that measures only 2.4 inches in height. Each solar post cap light provides up to 15 lumens of light without drawing attention away from the outdoor décor. These solar post cap lights are made of durable plastic that has a water-resistance rating of IP44, ensuring that they are protected against rain, though it may be a good idea to cover them during ice storms to prevent damage. The lights take 6 to 8 hours to fully charge and can then function for 8 to 10 hours before needing to be recharged. These lights can be installed on either 4×4 inch or 6×6 inch posts.
6. Siedinlar Solar Post Lights for Garden (2 Pack)
This attractive two-pack of solar post cap lights incorporates a metal woven floral design in the lamp shape that looks great in the garden and is also suitable for patios, decks, and fences. The lights are each capable of producing up to 15 lumens of light, which is about 5 lumens more than a cell phone flashlight, so these lights are well suited for outdoor decoration. With an IP65 water-resistance rating, these solar post cap lights
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for post cap lights that are both functional and water-resistant, the CaiFang Solar Post Outdoor Lights are a great option. For a vintage-style look that’s also super-bright, consider the Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Post Lights. Both options are powered by the sun, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective.
How I Selected the Top Solar Post Cap Lights
When choosing the best solar post cap lights, I considered various factors to ensure that they were both functional and durable. I evaluated the brightness of the lights, measured in lumens, to provide a range of options for users. Some users may prefer a single bright light. Others may want a set of several lights that provide enough illumination for safety while still allowing them to enjoy the night sky.
Since these lights are designed to withstand the elements, I analyzed the materials and weather resistance of each product. Additionally, I took into account the design of each light, ensuring that it would fit over a fence top or deck post with the right measurements. Finally, I included a variety of aesthetic options to match different styles, including modern, garden, and vintage.
Overall, I am confident that the solar post cap lights on this list will provide users with a reliable and visually appealing lighting solution for their outdoor spaces.
FAQs About Solar Post Cap Lights
Q. Do Solar Post Lights Work If It’s Cloudy All Day?
Solar post cap lights can still charge even on cloudy days, although it may take longer to fully charge the battery. While direct sunlight is the best way to charge the battery, indirect daylight will still charge it, just at a slower rate.
Q. Do Solar Post Lights Come With Batteries?
Yes, solar post lights come with one or more rechargeable batteries inside. You won’t have to worry about regularly replacing disposable batteries, which makes them a more eco-friendly option.
Q. How Long Does A Solar Post Cap Light Last?
The lifespan of a solar post cap light can range from 2 to 8 years depending on the frequency of use, and the replaceability of the battery. And whether it’s somewhat sheltered or completely exposed to weather conditions. It’s important to keep in mind that proper maintenance and care can also affect the lifespan of the light.
Why Trust Us
As an exterior contractor for several years, we have gathered experienced with do-it-yourself home improvement. With our expertise and accessible advice, we have served numerous people build, renovate, repair, and improve their homes and gardens. In addition, we specialized in home repairs and construction installing exterior fences that provide privacy to the homes.
