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Have you noticed your solar lights aren't staying on through the night or coming on at all? It may be time to replace your batteries! But if you're not sure what type of batteries you might need, we've done the research for you to make shopping that much easier.
For starters, our 10 best list can give you some ideas. Our number one pick, Brightown NiMH AA rechargeable batteries are high-capacity and stand up to cold weather. We've got nine other great options to check out, and if you need more in-depth information on how to choose rechargeable batteries, check out our buying guide reviewed by an environmental scientist. Learn how to determine if you need to replace your batteries and what to consider!
Gwen Lynn is an environmental health and safety scientist who provides environmental and safety consulting and monitors air, land and water resources. She is also the founder of In A Green Minute, who creates podcasts and informational videos on environmental progressiveness and green technology.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Even the best solar light batteries won't work well if there's a compatibility problem or an issue with the lights' charging panels. If you're looking for brighter lights or longer life, our buying guide shows you what to consider.
Besides the size of your current batteries, check the voltage and the mAh rating. You'll also want to check the battery's type and consider whether you live in a climate that has both cold and warm temperatures.
mAh stands for milliampere per hour. Typical mAh ratings are 600, 650, 1,200, and 2,800. Experts advise using rechargeable batteries with mAh ratings of 1,000 or higher for the best results.
Higher capacities lead to brighter and longer-lasting lights. However, experts also recommend not going much higher than your current batteries or exceeding your lights' voltage range.
Typical sizes for solar lights are AA or AAA. Although the AA or AAA size does not impact recharge cycles, different corresponding brands and sizes will have differences.
The number of recharge cycles can influence how long the batteries will last, with more recharge cycles equaling longer battery life. Recharge cycles of 1,000 or higher are recommended.
You'll also want to consider self-discharge ratings. Usually, if batteries are not labeled as being low self-discharge, experts do not recommend using them. Low self-discharge batteries are better at keeping a charge. A 70 percent capacity or higher after three years of non-use is best.
Rechargeable batteries for solar lights are usually made of nickel metal hydride (NiMH) or nickel cadmium (NiCD). It's generally best to keep using the same type as your current batteries. However, NiMH batteries perform better in climates with colder weather.
Solar light batteries tend to be sold in packs. Common sizes are six, eight, 12, 16, and 20. See how many batteries you may need to replace at once and how many batteries you'd like to have on hand in case one goes out.
Consider how frequently you'll be replacing batteries, as you don't want to keep too many lying around. They might expire after years of non-use. Figure self-discharge ratings against total anticipated battery life and replacement frequency.
Finally, you may want to consider batteries with longer warranties, as some have one-year, two-year, and three-year options. Warranties allow you to get replacement batteries at no additional charge if the original batteries fail before the guaranteed performance period.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Minetom Brightown NiMH Rechargeable AA Battery Pack | $22.99 High | Long-Lasting and Ready to Use | ||
2 | Tenergy Solla Rechargeable NiMH AA Battery | $12.99 Low Mid | Designed Especially for Solar Lights | ||
3 | Powerowl Rechargeable AA Batteries | $21.99 High Mid | High Performance for Outdoor Solar Lights | ||
4 | EBL AA Rechargeable Batteries for Solar Lights | $13.99 Mid | Versatile and Long-Lasting | ||
5 | Geilienergy AA Rechargeable Batteries for Solar Lights | $14.98 Mid | Designed for Intermatic and Malibu Solar Garden Lights | ||
6 | EBL Rechargeable AAA Batteries | $14.99 Mid | NiCD Batteries in AAA Size | ||
7 | Bonai AA Solar Rechargeable Batteries | $17.99 High Mid | Pre-Charged and Anti-Leak Batteries | ||
8 | Kinsun Rechargeable AA Batteries | $12.99 Low Mid | Highly Reliable and Long-Lasting | ||
9 | Tenergy Solla AAA Rechargeable Batteries | $10.99 Low | Reliable AAA Batteries for All Seasons | ||
10 | Funkawa Shockli AA Rechargeable Solar Batteries | $11.99 Low Mid | Shorter Battieries for Specialty Needs |
Brightown rechargeable batteries have a long life and retain most of their charge when not in use. The batteries are pre-charged, meaning you can use them out of the package. They also do not have a memory effect, so you can recharge them at any time without impacting the length of use.
Some reviewers found that the batteries did not come as fully pre-charged as expected. Other reviewers were pleased with how long their solar lights stayed on with these batteries. They praised the longevity of the batteries.
These batteries are made for solar lights. They're reliable in all types of weather and last up to five years. They're UL-certified, recyclable, and don't contain any mercury.
Reviewers were pleased with the batteries, although a small handful reported some inconsistency in quality. There seemed to have been a few duds among the crowd. Others appreciated that the batteries come pre-charged and can be used straight away. They also found that they recharge well each day.
These batteries retain 70 percent of their charge for up to three years. Although they can be used in other types of devices, the batteries are high-capacity and perform well in outdoor lighting. They also have a wide temperature range.
Reviewers found the batteries were able to recharge quickly and keep solar lights on for extended periods. The majority were happy with the performance, saying they last for a long time.
These batteries are designed to replace a variety of mAh ratings, including 600 and 800, as long as the old batteries are also NiCd. The temperature range these batteries can charge in is -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
A few reviewers did not like the packaging these batteries come in, finding it flimsy. Others found the batteries last longer when charged with a compatible portable charger during the winter or days without much sun.
These rechargeable batteries are made to work with Intermatic and Malibu brand solar garden lights but will work with any solar lights, of course. It's recommended you charge them up fully every time before use.
Some reviewers thought the time batteries remain charged is too short. Meanwhile, reviewers also said that these batteries work best in lights that already have the same type and capacity. Overall, most were happy with the batteries' performance.
These AAA batteries retain their power well and will last up to three years. They're great to use for outside solar lights and will perform even under cold or warm temperatures.
A handful of reviewers had issues with the batteries' compatibility with their chargers. However, many praised the batteries for their performance, saying they do a job well done.
These high-capacity rechargeable batteries for solar lights are leak resistant. The temperature range these batteries can charge in is -20 to 60 degrees Celsius and they last up to five years.
A few reviewers found that these batteries did not hold a charge for as long as they expected. Still, most appreciated that these batteries were ready to use on arrival. They said they work well and produce bright lights in their solar lights.
These NiCd batteries have 900 mAh and last longer than the typical 600 mAh option. While they're designed for outdoor solar lights, they can be used for a wide range of things.
Some reviewers found that the longevity of these batteries was shorter than desired. However, many others were pleased their solar lights seemed brighter and stayed lit from sunset to sunrise.
These AAA batteries are reliable in all seasons. And they're friendly to the environment as well as recyclable. With 2000 charging cycles, they can last up to five years.
They're also anti-leak and UL-certified. They're ready to use out of the box, so you don't have to spend time getting the charger out - just place them in the solar light and there will be light!
These special batteries have the diameter of a normal AA but are one-fifth shorter in length. They are lithium iron phosphate batteries specially made for solar lights and will last a long time, even with only 450 mAh. They are best for solar lights with a 3.2 voltage rating.
A few reviewers missed that the batteries are of an odd size, so make sure you use them to replace batteries of the same type. Meanwhile, many were happy to have found these, saying they work well to light up their garden lights.
The last thing you want to do is buy replacement batteries if that's not the problem. If your solar lights aren't coming on at night or staying on for long, there are a few things you should rule out first.
If your solar lights are not coming on at night or are not lasting for more than a few hours, it's not always a problem with the batteries. Check to see if the solar panels are dirty or blocked. You can try cleaning them with soap and water, especially if dirt and dust have built up over the fall and winter in seasonal climates.
Another thing to double-check is the placement of the lights. Make sure they are in areas that receive plenty of sunlight during the day. You can try placing them in sunnier locations to see if that makes a difference. You can also try testing the solar lights with non-rechargeable batteries to see if they light up.
Generally, rechargeable batteries in solar lights last for one to two years. If the age of the batteries is unknown or it's been more than two years since you replaced them, it is probably time. Even if some of your solar lights are still coming on, you may want to get new batteries if the old ones are getting old.
Sometimes the inside of the battery compartments can become damaged or broken. This can happen due to battery and compartment corrosion, as well as water damage.
Rust and broken wires often indicate the light itself needs to be replaced. It's also possible that the solar panel's circuit board or controller has become damaged. This usually means it's easier to replace the entire light.
Keeping your yard or garden looking its best takes care and work. Here's some tips to get you started!
No. 1: Minetom|Brightown NiMH Rechargeable AA Battery Pack
No. 2: Tenergy|Solla Rechargeable NiMH AA Battery
No. 3: Powerowl|Rechargeable AA Batteries
No. 4: EBL|AA Rechargeable Batteries for Solar Lights
No. 5: Geilienergy|AA Rechargeable Batteries for Solar Lights
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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