Illuminate Your Outdoor Space With Eco-Friendly and Long-Lasting Solar Lights

Outdoor solar lighting is an excellent way to illuminate your garden, patio, or walkways without running electrical wires or paying for ongoing electricity usage. Solar lights absorb sunlight during the day to power the LED lights at night. They are an easy, eco-friendly lighting solution that adds beauty and visibility to your outdoor space.

One of the most reputable brands for high-quality solar lighting is Smith and Hawken. Their solar lights are known for attractive designs, durable construction, and bright, long-lasting LED bulbs. This buying guide will cover everything you need to know about Smith and Hawken solar lights to help you choose the perfect models for your needs.

Overview of Smith and Hawken Solar Light Features

Smith and Hawken solar lights stand out for their distinctive styling and sturdy builds meant to withstand weather exposure. Here are some key features found across their solar light models:

• Attractive natural-inspired designs – Smith and Hawken solar lights feature natural wood, rattan, and other organic accents that seamlessly blend into outdoor environments. The lantern shapes and materials complement patio furniture and garden décor.
• Durable, weather-resistant materials – Housing and fixtures are made from UV-resistant, waterproof plastics and powder-coated metals that can tolerate sun exposure, rain, snow, and temperature extremes.
• Bright LED bulbs – The LEDs produce bright, warm light equivalent to that of a 20-60W incandescent bulb while using a fraction of the energy. Light output ranges from 200 to over 600 lumens depending on the model.
• Long battery life – Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries can store enough solar energy to keep the lights shining for 6-12 hours at night. Batteries are designed to last for years of use.
• Automatic on/off – Photocells turn the lights on at dusk and off at dawn automatically without needing switches or timers.
• Stake or hang installation – Most models come with ground stakes for placing into soil and some also include hooks for hanging. Installation is quick and easy.

How Smith and Hawken Solar Lights Compare to Other Brands

Smith and Hawken solar lights are comparable in performance and quality to premium brands like Brinkman and Sunforce, while being more competitively priced against designers like Signature Garden Collection. Here is how they stack up:

• Similar or better durability than Brinkman models, with weather-resistant plastics and metals. Brinkman uses more plastic components while Smith and Hawken adds wood and metal accents.
• Comparable or higher light output versus Sunforce lights. Smith and Hawken small path lights produce 200 lumens, while large area lights emit up to 600+ lumens.
• More stylish natural wood and rattan designs than utilitarian looks from Malibu or Innoo Tech models. Better complements outdoor decor.
• Much more affordable than designer brand Signature Garden Collection. Smith and Hawken pricing is closer to budget Fieldpiece and HomeBrite models but with better quality components.
• Lengthier battery performance than decorative Clairefont solar stakes. Smith and Hawken claims 6-12 hours on a charge while Clairefont estimates 4-6 hours.

Overall, Smith and Hawken solar lights offer a top-notch combination of attractive styling, proven performance, and reasonable pricing. Their excellent weather resistance and durable builds make them a long-lasting investment for your outdoor space.

Weather Resistance of Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

Since solar lights installed outdoors will be exposed to the elements year-round, weather resistance is a crucial feature for durability. Smith and Hawken solar lights are designed to handle all types of weather conditions:

• UV-resistant plastics prevent sun damage and fading over many seasons of sunlight exposure. The internal electronics and batteries are shielded from UV rays.
• Waterproof housings keep out rain and sprinkler water. Joints are sealed and gaskets prevent interior leaks. Lights can get drenched without damage.
• Powder-coated metals do not corrode from moisture. Stakes, frames, and hangers maintain their integrity instead of rusting.
• Cold/heat tolerance allows operation from -20°F to 120°F ambient temperatures. Lithium-ion batteries perform in temperature extremes.
• Weather-sealed battery cases protect the rechargeable batteries from outdoor elements that could reduce lifespan and capacity.

The sturdy weatherproof construction allows Smith and Hawken solar lights to shine brightly through all types of weather. Rain, snow, and humidity won’t stop them from illuminating your outdoor space all year long.

Customer Reviews of Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

Smith and Hawken solar lights earn very positive reviews across major retailers. Here are some common themes among customer feedback:

• Easy installation with included stakes and hooks. Customers describe quick and simple mounting in gardens, pathways, and patios.
• Attractive natural designs that complement outdoor décor without looking cheap like plastic models. Customers love the real wood and rattan accents.
• Surprisingly bright light output covering large areas at night. Many customers are impressed with the luminosity from the LEDs.
• All-night runtime thanks to efficient solar charging and batteries. Lights reliably turn on at dusk and stay lit until dawn.
• Durable construction that survives foul weather and bumps/knocks. Customers report the lights lasting for years with minimal wear.
• Good value for the quality compared to designer brands. Customers are pleased with the performance and aesthetics for the reasonable prices.

The main complaints mention bulkier sizes of some light models. Otherwise, reviews confirm Smith and Hawken solar lights deliver outstanding performance, stylish designs, impressive brightness, and formidable durability.

How Long Smith and Hawken Solar Lights Last Per Charge

One of the key specifications shoppers look for with solar lights is how long they can run per nighttime charge. Smith and Hawken solar lights typically operate for 6-12 hours on a single charge, depending on the model:

• Smaller path/spot lights with 200-400 lumen output will operate for 6-8 hours at moderate-to-high brightness.
• Medium-sized path/area lights in the 400-600 lumen range provide 8-10 hours of illumination per charge.
• Large patio/garden lights with 600+ lumen output can run for up to 12 hours on a single sunny charge.

More important than the hours per charge is that the lights reliably turn on at dusk and run all night until dawn. Even on cloudier days, the batteries can store enough solar energy to power the long runtimes.

With their efficient solar panels and lithium-ion batteries, Smith and Hawken solar lights are designed to provide many years of all-night operation. Automatic photocells turn them on and off at the optimal times daily.

Installation Tips for Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

Installing Smith and Hawken solar lights is a quick process that does not require tools or electrical wiring. Here are some tips for optimal placement:

• Position lights in areas that receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily so the solar panels can fully recharge.
• Angle the solar panels towards the southern sky if possible to catch the most sunlight throughout the day.
• Place lights along paths, lining driveways, or flanking staircases for practical directed illumination.
• Stake lights into soil or soft ground for stability. Use included plastic anchors for securing stakes into hard surfaces.
• Hang lights from trees, porch roofs, and fences using integrated eye hooks and mounting hardware.
• Arrange multifunction light models to directly illuminate seating areas, gardens, or landscape features.
• Keep lights clear of overhanging branches and other objects that could block sunlight from reaching the solar panels during the daytime.

Experiment with light placements to determine the layout that provides the best light coverage and visibility for your outdoor space at night. The adaptable Smith and Hawken solar lights allow creating your ideal lighting arrangement.

Styles and Designs of Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

In addition to their signature natural styling, Smith and Hawken solar lights are available in a range of designs to complement any outdoor decor. Popular styles include:

• Path lights – Compact low-profile lights to stake along walkways and driveways. Direct downward illumination lights the way.
• Spot lights – Small directed lights for highlighting plants, landscape features, entryways. Versatile lighting.
• Bollard lights – Medium height lights for lining pathways and accent lighting. Omnidirectional light.
• Area lights – Tall freestanding pillar lights to place in gardens and open spaces. Broad illumination.
• Multi-head lights – Single stake lights with multiple adjustable light heads for customized directional lighting.
• Hanging lights – Suspended pendant lights that can be hung from roofs, trees and ceilings for ambient lighting.
• Stepping stone lights – Low-profile durable lights that can be directly embedded into garden walkways and patios.
• Wall-mount lights – Compact sconce lights that attach to exterior walls to illuminate entries, patios and sitting areas.

Smith and Hawken solar lighting is available in designs suitable for any outdoor location. Choose lights that best match your home’s architecture and landscaping.

Using Smith and Hawken Solar Lights Year-Round

Smith and Hawken solar lights are built to withstand year-round outdoor exposure, making them suitable lighting solutions for all seasons:

• Spring – Increase evening visibility along paths and drives muddy from spring rains and thaws. Highlight emerging blooms.
• Summer – Light up summer evening barbeques, bonfires, and outdoor activities later into the night. Illuminate foliage.
• Fall – Brighten autumnal gardens and landscaping. Accent Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations.
• Winter – Improve visibility along icy, snowy walkways. Provide ambient lighting for holiday decorations and events. Light driveways after early sunsets.

With their weather-resistant construction, Smith and Hawken solar lights will reliably illuminate outdoor spaces regardless of the season or weather. The automatic operation turns them on at dusk each evening.

Rotate pathways lights to follow the shifting seasons and sunrise/sunset patterns. Use multi-head adjustable lights to specifically spotlight landscaping and architectural features in different times of year.

Warranty Protection for Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

Smith and Hawken provides warranty coverage to protect customers’ investments in their solar lighting products. Warranty terms include:

• 1 year full product warranty – Covers complete light failures and defects first year after purchase. Smith and Hawken will repair or replace lights free of charge.
• Limited lifetime LED warranty – Warrants LED bulbs against defects and failures for the expected lifetime of the lights. LEDs typically last for many years.
• Limited lithium-ion battery warranty – Covers battery defects and problems for 2-3 years depending on model. Batteries are designed for 5+ years of usage.
• Accessory warranties – Ground stakes, mounting components, and other accessories are guaranteed against manufacturing defects up to 1 year.

With the included warranty coverage, Smith and Hawken provides assurance their solar lights will maintain their quality and performance. Contact Smith and Hawken customer support regarding any warranty claims and returns/exchanges for defective products.

Brightness and Light Output

One of the most important features of outdoor solar lights is their brightness and illumination abilities. Smith and Hawken solar lights produce impressive light outputs:

• Smaller path/spot lights generate 200-400 lumens, equivalent to the brightness of a 20-40 watt incandescent bulb.
• Mid-size area/pillar lights emit 400-600+ lumens, comparable to a 40-60 watt incandescent. Very bright.
• Large-scale multi-head lights can produce over 600+ lumens, rivalling 60W+ incandescent bulbs.

The brightness comes from efficient LEDs that conserve energy while producing more light output per watt than other bulb types. The lights distribute illumination over 10-50 foot diameters depending on model.

Smith and Hawken solar lights utilize optical lenses and reflectors to shape and direct the light precisely where needed, minimizing wasted light. Adjustable multi-head models allow customizing the light coverage.

Materials Used in Smith and Hawken Solar Light Construction

Smith and Hawken chooses highly durable, weather-resistant materials to build their solar lighting fixtures and components:

• UV-resistant ABS plastics – Impact, heat, and fade-resistant plastics compose light housings, lenses, and stakes. Withstands sunlight.
• ** Powder-coated aluminum & stainless steel** – Corrosion-proof metals make up light poles, frames, and hanging hardware. Durable and attractive.
• ** Tempered glass** – Extra-strong glass panes protect LED bulbs and diffuse light. More resistant to impacts than standard glass.
• ** Silicone seals & gaskets** – Weatherproof seals prevent water intrusion into light fixtures to protect electronics.
• ** Natural rattan & teak wood** – Sustainably-sourced wood integrated into some light designs for an organic touch.
• Nickel-cadmium or lithium-ion batteries – Advanced rechargeable battery chemistries for solar storage and long operating lifetimes.

By using industrial-grade materials inside and out, Smith and Hawken solar lights achieve lengthy lifespans withstanding constant outdoor placement through all weather extremes.

Sales and Discounts on Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

Smith and Hawken solar lighting typically retails in the $$$ to $$$$ price ranges depending on light sizes and features:

• Path/spot lights – $$ to $$$
• Post/pillar lights – $$$
• Multi-head lights – $$$ to $$$$
• Hanging pendant lights – $$$$
• Stepping stone lights – $$$$
• Wall sconces – $$$

The premium prices reflect Smith and Hawken’s quality, performance, and aesthetic. However, discounts and sales can make these lights more affordable:

• Check for any current sales promotions on the SmithandHawken.com website. Sitewide sales may discount solar lighting.
• Smith and Hawken products are also sold through Amazon, Hayneedle, Walmart, and other major retailers which offer their own sales and deals.
• Sign up for email newsletters to receive notices about upcoming sales events and limited-time promotions.
• Look for price reductions on open box, refurbished, or clearance solar light models. Inventory and cosmetic defects lead to steeper discounts.
• Time purchases around major seasonal sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas for the biggest savings opportunities.

With some strategic timing, you can purchase premium Smith and Hawken solar lights at more budget-friendly price points to light up your outdoor space stylishly.

Maintenance Tips for Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

Smith and Hawken solar lights will operate reliably for years with minimal care and maintenance:

• Keep the solar panels free of dust buildup and debris by occasionally wiping with a soft cloth. Avoid using cleaners.
• Inspect lights after storms for any damage, loosening of parts, or moisture intrusions needing repair.
• Wipe down exterior surfaces periodically with a damp cloth to restore luster and remove grime buildup. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Check that mounting stakes/hardware remain tightly secured into the ground or installation surface. Refasten if loose.
• For lights with replaceable rechargeable AA or 18650 batteries, swap batteries every 2-3 years for optimal performance. Recycle old batteries properly.
• In winter, remove snow accumulation on solar panels to allow sunlight to reach the cells and recharge batteries.
• Inspect lights for insects/webbing and gently remove with a small brush or vacuum nozzle to allow proper air circulation.

With occasional inspection and cleaning, Smith and Hawken solar lights will perform like new for many years, while the weatherproof construction protects them from harsh outdoor conditions.

Using Smith and Hawken Solar Lights Indoors

While designed for outdoor use, Smith and Hawken solar lights can provide beautiful accent lighting indoors as well in the right applications:

• Place path or spot lights along hallways, staircases, or dark corners to provide nighttime visibility for navigating the house at night.
• Arrange post and pillar lights in entryways, living rooms, or bedrooms to create atmosphere with soft ambient lighting.
• Hang pendant lights above kitchen islands, bars, or dining tables for charming illumination during evening gatherings.
• Accent indoor plants and landscaping with spotlights and customize direction and brightness as needed.
• Mount wall sconces along borders of rooms or hallways for practical and decorative lighting.
• Let children use path lights for reading in their bedroom instead of lamps which can pose fire hazards.

While they can work indoors, keep in mind Smith and Hawken lights are designed for outdoor durability over decorativeness. Also, without direct sunlight the solar charging will be less effective so runtimes may be shorter. But they can still add charming accent lighting inside that requires no wiring.

Pricing Range of Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

As a premium brand, Smith and Hawken solar lights carry price tags ranging from moderate to high:

• Small path/spot lights – $$ to $$$
• Mid-size bollard/pillar lights – $$$
• Large multi-head post lights – $$$$
• Decorative hanging pendant lights – $$$$
• Stepping stone in-ground lights – $$$$
• Sleek modern wall sconces – $$$
• Solar lamppost – $$$$
• Complete solar light kits – $$$$ to $$$$$

While the costs exceed cheaper plastic solar lights from stores, the Smith and Hawken pricing reflects durable constructions from high-end materials, robust weatherproofing for long life, and elegant natural styling that enhances outdoor spaces. The quality helps justify costs over the many years of valued use these lights provide. Sales and specials also make Smith and Hawken lights more budget-friendly for buyers.

Motion Sensor Options on Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

For added convenience and energy savings, some Smith and Hawken solar lights incorporate motion sensors to automatically turn the lights on when activity is detected:

• Saves power by keeping lights off when no movement is around to need the illumination. Conserves battery.
• Adds convenience by not needing to manually turn the lights on/off when entering or exiting an area at night.
• Enhances security by suddenly brightening dark areas when visitors approach at night. Deters intruders.
• Adjustable sensitivity prevents false triggering from vegetation moving in wind. Customizes detection range.
• Dual bright & dim modes use full brightness when motion is detected but dims after movement ceases to save energy while keeping light available if needed.

The motion activation provides both practicality and customization over always-on solar lighting. Position motion sensor models strategically along paths or driveways to light up as visitors approach.

Durability of Smith and Hawken Solar Lighting

Durability is a signature of Smith and Hawken’s solar lighting designs. The premium construction ensures their lights survive constant exposure to outdoor elements for years:

• Waterproof seals prevent interior moisture damage from rain, sprinklers, storms, and flooding.
• UV-resistant plastics, powder-coated metals, and tempered glass stand up to intense sunlight without deterioration and damage over time.
• Weather-sealed batteries are protected inside compartments instead of getting waterlogged and corroded.
• Impact-resistant plastics and stainless steel fixtures resist dents, cracking, and breakage if the lights get knocked over or impacted by falling debris.
• Secure stakes remain anchored in the ground through freezing and thawing, eliminating tilting and instability.
• Thermal resilience allows operation through temperature extremes from frigid winters to hot summers.
• LED bulbs rated for thousands of hours of use far outlast incandescent or CFL bulbs.

With their hardened constructions, Smith and Hawken solar lights tolerate the elements to continue beautifying outdoor areas year after year. The durable builds make them a long-term investment.

Color Options for Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

While many solar lighting brands only utilize plain black housings, Smith and Hawken sets itself apart with attractive coloring:

• Bronze – Rich metallic bronze accents complement lighting fixtures for a sophisticated appearance.
• Oil-rubbed bronze – A darker antique bronze finish gives lights an elegantly aged, almost vintage look.
• Stainless steel – Sleek, modern brushed steel fixtures add contemporary styling.
• Weathered gray – Textured powder-coated grays resemble natural weathered wood for a rustic flair.
• Whitewash – Crisp white plastic or painted wood finishes brighten up gardens and paths with a clean look.
• Bamboo – Real bamboo shoots incorporated into some designs for tropical-inspired accents.
• Rattan – Natural woven rattan inlays in light housings or posts add organic warmth.

The unique colors and textures extend Smith and Hawken’s creative natural designs beyond basic black. Choose lighting in hues to match or complement your home and landscape.

Are Smith and Hawken Solar Lights Eco-Friendly?

Yes, Smith and Hawken solar lights are an excellent eco-friendly lighting choice:

• Solar-powered – Absorb free abundant solar energy to recharge batteries, eliminating reliance on electricity from fossil fuels.
• Energy-efficient LEDs – State-of-the-art LED bulbs require a fraction of the power of incandescent and CFL lighting. More light output per watt.
• Rechargeable batteries – Reusable lithium-ion batteries avoid waste and expense of frequent disposable battery replacement in other lights.
• Natural materials – Fixtures crafted from sustainable rattan, bamboo, and fast-growing teak when possible for green sourcing.
• Long-lasting – Durable construction keeps lights in use for decades instead of entering landfills prematurely. Less waste.
• No light pollution – Directed light minimizes ambient glow and night sky interference. Motion sensors also conserve illumination.

Illuminate your property beautifully at night using only natural solar energy. Smith and Hawken solar lights are rated for decades of zero-electricity operation.

Battery Replacement in Smith and Hawken Solar Lights

The rechargeable nickel-cadmium or lithium-ion batteries inside Smith and Hawken solar lights are designed to provide years of lifetime usage. But eventually batteries may need replacement:

• Lights will operate for shorter periods before turning off at night when batteries can no longer hold full charges.
• Replacements can be ordered through SmithandHawken.com or sourced online from battery suppliers. Match amp hour (Ah) and voltage specifications.
• Use a screwdriver to access the battery compartment. Disconnect and remove old battery from wiring.
• Connect replacement battery to wiring. For lithium batteries, positive and negative cannot be reversed.
• Ensure new battery fits snugly into compartment space and tighten enclosure securely afterward.
• Fully cover solar panel with cardboard overnight to completely drain remnants of old battery power and allow new battery to charge properly in sunlight.

Properly recycling old batteries is important for environmental safety. With fresh lithium-ion or NiCad batteries installed, Smith and Hawken solar lights will resume providing years of maintenance-free outdoor illumination.

In Summary

For beautiful, eco-friendly, and durable solar lighting that adds elegance and visibility to any outdoor space, Smith and Hawken solar lights are highly recommended. Their signature natural designs, premium construction, and powerful LED illumination make them a long-lasting investment. This buying guide covered all the essential factors, from key features to styles, performance, pricing, and maintenance needs. The quality and craftsmanship of Smith and Hawken solar lights empower you to create your ideal lighting ambiance using free and sustainable solar energy.