How to charge solar batteries without the sun: five useful tips for autumn and winter

Solar panels serve a good purpose a source of energy, but with the onset of cold weather, their efficiency decreases due to lack of light.

Due to real and possible power outages, as well as rising tariffs, Ukrainians are actively switching to alternative energy sources, for example, using lamps with built-in solar panels. They not only provide free lighting, but also add comfort to the home or yard. For optimal operation, such lamps need direct sunlight, so in the fall and winter, when the weather is often cloudy, it rains or snows, problems arise. Tom's Guide found out what to do if the Sun does not shine.

1. Window and cold

If the lamps are outside, then in cloudy weather it is worth bringing them into the house to charge and placing them near the window, it is better if the sun's rays fall there. LED solar lanterns can be charged through glass, since photovoltaic cells are sensitive enough to capture light waves of the right length.

Experts advise choosing cold weather for this, because solar lanterns charge better at low temperatures. This is due to the fact that the electrons inside the solar panels will not make excessive movements. As a result, there is a larger voltage difference and more energy is produced.

This solution will only help for a while. It is important to remember that solar lanterns work much more effectively outdoors in natural daylight.

2. Cleanliness — the key to success

Over time, lamps become covered with dust and dirt, especially outdoors. All this prevents sunlight from reaching the photocells, and the battery charges less well.

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You can gently wipe the panel with a clean, damp microfiber cloth, without using soap or any detergents, as they can leave traces. Clean elements will convert energy well even in cloudy weather.

3. Deception with artificial lighting

Solar lights can be charged without the sun using artificial light from room bulbs, LED lights, incandescent bulbs, or even bright flashlights that can provide enough light for the panels.

Typically, solar cells respond to any strong light, because they operate on similar wavelengths. It is necessary to place the lamps at a distance of several centimeters from the surface of the panels in order for charging to take place. It is worth noting that this way the process takes much more time — up to 12 hours, depending on the power of the bulb. 40-100 W is best.

Charging a solar battery with artificial light

4 . Temporary rest

Sometimes you should turn off the solar lights for 72 hours to improve the charging efficiency. Experts recommend this procedure once or twice a month to extend the life of the battery.

This is called “deep charging”. Even when turned off, the batteries will still charge and store energy for best performance. It is best to leave the device outside where it will receive as much sunlight as possible.

5. External battery

Many lamps today have a USB connector. Thanks to this, they can be charged via a cable from a wall outlet or, if there is no electricity, from a power bank or other device with an already charged battery. Although this option requires an electricity source, it is useful to have such an alternative to the sun.