How to Install a Solar-Panel Security Light

Follow our easy steps to install a solar-panel security light.

Bros or Pros 2017

Photo by: Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Related To:

Materials and Tools

  • security light with solar panel
  • drill
  • small drill bit
  • ladder
  • compass
  • hammer

Pick a Security Light

A typical solar light kit includes an installation manual, the light fixture with power cord, a solar panel with power cord and fastening hardware.

Bros or Pros 2017

Photo by: Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Determine Location

Use a compass or compass app to determine where to install the solar panel. You need to install it towards the sun, typically facing south in North America. Keep the cord distance in mind when determining where to install the light and solar panel. Most fixtures allow several feet of cord between the light and the solar panel for flexibility and ease of installation.

Bros or Pros 2017

Photo by: Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Drill Holes

Mark with a pencil the location where you will install the panel, using the mounting brackets on the solar panel as a guide (Image 1). Drill pilot holes at the marks (Image 2). The bit should be appropriate for the material you're drilling into (masonry, wood, etc.) and slightly smaller in diameter than your mounting hardware.

Install Panel

Secure the bracket to the wall or eave with the provided hardware and a drill (Image 1), then slide the solar panel onto the bracket (Image 2).

Run Cords

Run the cord off the panel along the eaves, or hide them inside a wall. We tucked ours underneath the roof line.

Bros or Pros 2017

Photo by: Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Install Security Light

Drill pilot holes at the preferred location, using the light's mounting brackets as a guide as you did with the solar panel (Image 1). Again, the bit should be appropriate for the material and slightly smaller in diameter than your mounting hardware. Once the light is secured, make any adjustments to the fixture or bulbs, timers and motion control settings (Image 2). 


Connect Cords

Plug the solar panel cord into the fixture cord, then secure the remaining cords along the trim or eaves to help conceal cords. We used cable clips and a hammer to secure the power cord along a piece of trim.

Bros or Pros 2017

Photo by: Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

Tomas Espinoza/Flynnside Out Productions

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