Has anyone tried combining solar with battery backup, or is that just doubling the headaches?
You’re not wrong about the headaches, but it’s doable if you want lights that last all night. Here’s how I’d tackle it: run solar fairy lights to a weatherproof battery box, then use a timer or dusk-to-dawn sensor. Just make sure you use conduit for any exposed wiring—squirrels will chew anything, even “critter-proof” stuff. I’ve seen them gnaw through PVC and split loom, no joke. Solar plus battery isn’t perfect, but it’s less hassle than trenching for low-voltage cable.
I’ve seen a few clients go the solar-plus-battery route, and honestly, it’s not as bad as it sounds if you keep things simple. Timers are a lifesaver. Curious—has anyone tried those newer solar panels with built-in micro inverters? I hear they’re supposed to be more efficient, but I haven’t seen them in action yet. Wondering if that’d cut down on some of the wiring headaches...
Lighting up the backyard fence: solar, wired, or something else?
I’ve messed around with those micro inverter panels on a buddy’s shed last summer. They’re slick for small setups—less mess with DC wiring, but honestly, I didn’t notice a huge jump in efficiency. The real win was not having to run a bunch of conduit everywhere. Still, if you’re just lighting up a fence, I wonder if it’s overkill? Anyone tried stringing low-voltage wire along the fence instead? That’s been my go-to for years—cheap and easy to fix if something goes sideways.
“if you’re just lighting up a fence, I wonder if it’s overkill?”
I get what you mean—solar setups are cool, but sometimes it feels like bringing a bazooka to a water balloon fight. I’ve run low-voltage wire along fences on a few rentals, and honestly, it’s hard to beat for cost and quick fixes. Ever had squirrels chew through your wiring though? That’s my only gripe... those little guys treat my investments like an all-you-can-eat buffet.
I hear you on the squirrel problem—those little guys are relentless. I’ve had them chew through my garden lights more than once, and it’s always the night before I’m having people over. As for solar, I get the appeal, but honestly, unless you’re in a spot that gets sun all day, those things can be pretty hit or miss. Half the time mine are glowing like a dying flashlight by 10pm.
Low-voltage wired is definitely cheaper upfront and you get way more control over brightness and placement. The only thing that bugs me is the trenching if you want it to look tidy... but if you’re just running it along a fence, it’s not too bad. I’ve started using some cheap conduit to keep the critters out—works better than electrical tape, at least for now.
I guess it comes down to how much hassle you’re willing to put up with. For me, I’d rather deal with a bit of wiring than have to replace solar lights every season.