- 1). Plan where you want, or need, light. Draw a quick sketch of your property on paper; then identify areas that need light (such as a walkway), and areas that would look good with light (such as plants or trees).
- 2). Choose the correct light. Because exterior solar powered lights come in so many sizes and shapes, you will want to settle on a style first. For instance, if you like the "hanging lantern" style, you will want to make sure there is enough of this style for your project. Also, research to see if they come in different sizes or different colors. Make sure all your lights are the same. You may be able to use smaller lights along a walkway and larger ones to illuminate a plant feature.
- 3). Determine the placement. Place lights so the solar panel is not obscured by low branches, shrubbery leaves or any part of your house. If the solar panel doesn't get daylight, it will not charge the battery and the light will not work.
- 4). Take all of your solar lights into a dark room or garage and test them. Most solar lights have an on/off switch so test the switch and make sure the battery works by shining a flashlight on it to charge it. Some lights will also have a tab that you should remove; this tab is used to protect the light and the battery. Make sure all packing tape and wrapping is removed.
- 5). Install the mounting spikes to the bottom of your lights, if so equipped. Usually, this requires a slight push on the spike.
- 6). Push the light in the ground and turn it on. If it is daylight, the light will be off; but once darkness falls the lights will come.
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