When it comes to backyard lighting, electricity is typically the go-to solution. However, now that people are asking how to light up backyard without electricity. alternative solutions are readily available!
What if you don’t have access to electricity? Do you want to go a more sustainable route?
Even without electricity, you can still light up your backyard in a variety of ways.
In this in-depth blog post, we will explore how to light up your backyard without electricity.
Running new electricity for outdoor lights and light fixtures can be expensive. Unless you’re a licensed electrician, it’s not a DIY project you should be tackling.
The good news is, you don’t have to run electricity to our outdoor spaces to illuminate them.
No matter what type of backyard you have, you can create a beautiful outdoor living space for your family and friends to enjoy.
Through a combination of the various lighting options, you can light up your outdoor space – no electricity required!
How to Get Power Without Electricity
Electrical energy from an electric power supply is not your only option for outdoor lighting.
There are plenty of options for lights with wireless functionality to create a well-lit outdoor space or the perfect outdoor ambiance with soft light.
Solar Power
Solar power is the conversion of energy from sunlight into electricity. It is a renewable energy source, meaning it can be used as long as the sun shines.
Solar power is stored in batteries for use when the sun is not shining. That’s how solar-powered lights work.
It’s used in a lot of different ways, including powering homes, businesses, and even vehicles.
Solar power has become increasingly popular for outdoor home uses like lighting, because it’s inexpensive and convenient.
Most solar-powered lights will give off more of an ambient light rather than a bright light.
Unless, of course, if meant for security, like a motion sensor light, the solar light will be bright.
If you place solar-powered lights all around your outdoor space, they will be enough of a light source to create a relaxing and beautiful atmosphere.
Battery Power
Battery-powered lighting is a type of lighting that is powered by rechargeable batteries or even disposable batteries instead of electricity.
Using battery-powered lighting is a convenient and efficient way to light up any space without the need for wires.
It is especially useful in outdoor settings since they’re easy to move and set up, and they don’t require an external power source.
Battery-powered lighting can be a great way to save energy, as it only uses electricity when it is actually in use.
These types of lights are also usually more affordable than traditional lighting solutions.
Battery-powered lighting, especially from long-lasting LED bulbs, can be much brighter than solar-powered lighting.
These light options can be the perfect way to create a well-lit outdoor area if you’re not necessarily looking for an ambient feel.
Still, you can find battery and solar lighting in a variety of intensities for use in different ways.
How to Light Up Backyard Without Electricity
Creating a beautiful backyard space doesn’t have to rely on electricity.
With a few simple strategies and a bit of creativity, you can light up your backyard without relying on electricity.
1. Solar Path Lights
Solar path lights are outdoor lighting fixtures that use the power of the sun to illuminate pathways, driveways, and other outdoor areas.
These are the ones you see lining sidewalks and they’re usually really cute and decorative.
They’re a convenient, low-cost way to add light and beauty to your outdoor space.
Solar path lights are easy to install and require minimal maintenance. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles to fit any style and budget.
You’ll find solar path lights produce a soft, warm glow that is ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere in your outdoor area.
Solar lighting is a great way to light up your backyard without having to worry about running electricity.
Solar path lights are also very easy to install. They require no wiring, and can be used to create a beautiful nighttime atmosphere in your backyard.
2. LED Candle or Real Wax Candles
Candles are a great way to bring a warm and inviting atmosphere to your backyard space.
LED candles can be used to create an intimate atmosphere or to add a bit of ambiance to the space.
You can hang candles in glass jars from trees or place them on tables and around seating areas.
Be sure to only use wax candles when you’re in the area and keep them away from any flammable material.
Battery-powered candles would be much easier and more efficient to use in your outdoor spaces. This is because they can be operated with a remote control.
Otherwise, you’ll be spending a lot of time lighting candles. Place battery-powered candles around your outdoor spaces in mason jars for a really whimsical look.
3. Solar or Battery Powered Lanterns
Lanterns are a great way to create a cozy atmosphere in your backyard.
Large lanterns can be used to hang from trees, line pathways, or be placed around seating areas.
They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors and can be really beautiful in your outdoor spaces.
You can get solar powered lanterns, battery powered lanterns, and even oil lanterns if you’re okay with a less convenient option.
4. Solar or Battery Powered String Lights
Waterproof string lights are one of the easiest ways and least expensive ways to light up your backyard without electricity.
That’s because they cover a lot of area, so you won’t need to buy any other sources of light.
Strung lights come in a variety of styles and can be hung from trees, along pathways, or around seating areas.
These lights can be used to create an inviting atmosphere in your backyard. Battery powered fairy lights are so pretty inside mason jars or wrapped around plants.
5. Fire Pit
Fire pits are a great way to light up your backyard without electricity.
They provide both warmth and light and can be used to create an intimate atmosphere in your backyard.
Fire pits come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used to cook food, provide heat, and create a beautiful setting.
Built-in fire pits are a great option but stand-alone and moveable firepits are handy too.
You can use a wood-burning firepit or choose a gas-burning option. Either way, a fire can provide a lot of lighting and keep you comfortable on a chilly night.
If interested in firepits, check out these 50 Backyard bonfire ideas.
6. Solar or Battery-Powered Outlet
A solar or battery powered outlet is a good option if you already have outdoor lighting that requires electricity.
If you moved from a home where your outdoor space had electricity, you probably don’t want to have to replace all of your outdoor lightings.
These outlets will allow you to run lights while you’re outside using an outlet.
7. Battery Powered LED Lights
These battery powered LED lights typically offer four different modes. This offers the option for bright light, more of a relaxing, softer light mode, or a couple of levels in between.
These lights are a great idea for areas where you sometimes need more light and LED lights are known for lasting a long time.
8. Tiki Torches or Solar Torches
The classic tiki torch option also comes in a solar option too. You can use these to light all areas of your outdoor spaces.
Tiki torches obviously will need to be placed more strategically for safety reasons. They will require more upkeep, because they have to be refilled with fuel for burning.
Solar torches aren’t a safety hazard but they do require some thought when it comes to placement. It’s important they get enough light to work properly.
9. Motion Sensor Lights
Maybe you’re looking at alternatives to electric-powered lights for different purposes than decorations.
If you’re more interested in security lighting than ambient lighting, a solar or battery powered motion sensor light is a perfect choice.
Outdoor Lighting Options: Things to Consider
Before you grab the first box of cute outdoor string lights you see, there are a few things you’ll want to think about first.
Solar and battery-powered lights are meant to be easy solutions, but that doesn’t mean they work for every situation.
Consider these things before you choose the best option for your outdoor use.
How much daytime light do you have in the space?
What does daytime light have to do with lighting your outdoor areas at night?
Well, if you’re using solar power, it has everything to do with it. Solar power is totally reliant on sunlight.
That means you can put the lights in shaded areas or under any sort of cover like a canopy or porch roof.
Are the exterior lights waterproof?
Most outdoor lights will be waterproof, but you will run across some cheaper options that don’t mention it.
Make sure you always choose a waterproof option for outdoor lighting.
If not waterproof, you will be moving them in and out of shelter all the time. It’s likely you will be replacing them when they malfunction because of water.
What is the installation process?
Most battery or solar powered lights will be easy to install, but some that hang may be more complicated.
Just make sure you know the installation process before you purchase the light and that you have all the tools you need to install the lighting fixture.
Also, for lights that exactly don’t require installation like string lights, you should consider ahead of time how you plan to hang them.
Make sure, again, that solar string lights will get sunlight and that you have all the brackets or other items you’ll need to execute your vision.
What is the run time of the lighting source?
Whether you purchase solar or battery powered lighting sources, you should consider the run time of each individual lighting piece.
The run time should be indicated on the packaging or online listing for the light.
LED battery powered lights will run much longer than other battery powered lights and require very little attention when it comes to power.
Solar lights come in different battery sizes. The battery is what holds the power that the light gets from the sun all day long.
The amount of time that a solar light will stay illuminated depends on the size of the battery, the amount of sunlight it is exposed to, and the type of light bulb that is used.
Generally, the larger the battery and the more sunlight it is exposed to, the longer the solar light will stay lit.
What’s the charging time of the lighting source?
Charging time is just as important as how long a lighting source will run.
You don’t want to realize you are out of power and need to recharge at an inopportune time.
This can be avoided by making sure your solar lights get enough sunlight. Also make sure you have backup batteries, or that your rechargeable batteries have been charged.
Choose a source of lighting that meets your desired level of maintenance in this category.
The charging time for battery powered lights varies depending on the size of the battery and the type of charger used.
Generally speaking, smaller batteries will take 2-4 hours to charge, while larger batteries can take 8-12 hours.
Alternatively, you can purchase disposable batteries instead of rechargeable batteries, which will eliminate charging time completely.
The charging time for solar lights can vary depending on the type and size of the solar panel and battery, but the average charging time is between 8-10 hours of direct sunlight.
How much maintenance does the light source require?
Charging time, cleaning, and moving lighting out of the weather are all types of maintenance that you might encounter with certain lights.
The most amount of maintenance with non-electrical lights will be for solar lights. That’s because they should be cleaned regularly so they can absorb sunlight properly.
Make sure you answer all of the above questions when you’re looking for outdoor lighting and weigh those against your desired outcome to find out if the lighting is right for you.
FAQ: Outdoor Lighting Without Electricity
Is it OK to leave solar lights out in the winter?
Yes, it is generally OK to leave solar lights out in the winter.
Many solar lights are designed to withstand cold temperatures, and will continue to work even in cold winter weather.
You might want to bring the solar lights inside if they might be exposed to extremely cold temperatures or snow and ice. Those kinds of conditions might damage them.
What are the disadvantages of solar lights?
Solar lights require direct sunlight for optimum performance so they might not work well in locations with limited direct sunlight. They also require regular maintenance – as they should be cleaned regularly.
You have to replace their batteries occasionally where the energy is stored, to ensure optimal performance.
Solar lights also might not provide enough lighting for some uses.
Are battery powered outdoor lights any good?
Yes, battery powered outdoor lights can be a great option for outdoor lighting.
They’re convenient, easy to install, and provide reliable lighting as long as you keep extra batteries on hand. They are also cost-effective and can be used in a variety of ways.
Battery powered lights also won’t be affected by power outages, which makes them an ideal solution to have for emergencies.
Can I leave battery operated lights on all night?
Yes, you can leave them on as long as you want to. However, you’ll want to make sure you keep extra batteries on hand.
Battery operated lights will run out faster if you use them for long periods of time.
Can you put battery operated lights outside in winter?
Yes, battery operated lights can be used outside in winter.
In really cold temperatures the batteries may drain more quickly and not hold a charge well so you’ll want to keep extras handy just in case.
How long will battery LED lights last?
Most LED lights will last between 20,000-50,000 hours. This is equivalent to between 2-5 years of continuous use.
What are the disadvantages of battery powered lights?
Batteries have limited storage capacity and need to be replaced or recharged pretty frequently.
Battery powered lights can only provide light within a limited area. They may not be strong enough to reach as far as electrically powered lights so you may need more of them to get the effect you want.
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