1.The light source
When make enquiries about solar street light dealers in Chennai for solar-powered lamp sources, they come up with several options like:
Energy-saving lamps
LED lamps
Induction lamps
Sodium lamps
Of these choices, the best option that's a close replica of the sun's spectrum is the LED light. Nowadays, smart solar-powered LED lights are powered by higher lumens that use less energy. Furthermore, LED lights make solar power integration simple and easy. So, they could be the better choice.
2.The type of battery
All solar lights are powered by batteries, which are available in two types:
Lithium batteries
Lead-acid batteries
Of the two, lithium batteries are better because they have:
Longer lifespan
Stronger resistance to temperature (upto 45 degrees Celsius)
Various charge and discharge times ( up to three times more than that of lead batteries)
Better battery capacity to provide the right lighting efficiency
It is important to note that the battery capacity should meet the lighting efficiency requirement. If not, the street lamp will not provide adequate lighting during the rainy season.
3.The temperature and latitude
When you are at a latitude greater than 15 degrees, the sun's inclination angle with the ground is greater than 15 degrees. Therefore, you must consider solar street lights with adjustable solar panels. Also, the panels of solar street lights installed on both sides of the road should not face away from the sun.
4.The heat dissipation performance
The heat dissipation is another important factor determining the LED lamp's quality. Basically, heat dissipation is nothing more than the transfer of heat. However, dissipation also refers to heat loss driven by undesirable effects. Therefore, every time the heat dissipation is inadequate, the lifespan of the semiconductor device in the street lamp is shortened. It is better to choose anti-ultraviolet and fireproof LED lights to ensure adequate heat dissipation.
5.The Illumination levels
When considering solar street lights, look for details about the footcandles as they determine the illumination on the floor. Ideally, the bright/dark ratio should be 4:1, but a minimum ratio of 3:1 is also good. You should also consider the colour temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin.
6.The temperature of the black lamp housing
It is better to opt for light coloured lamps since black coloured lamps are highly heat absorbing. If the lamp is black, the temperature of the metal shell can reach up to 90 degrees Celsius underexposure. The high temperature will destroy the battery and the LED light source. Therefore, choose a silver shell that will not absorb heat or fade when placed outdoors.
7.The controller
Charging and discharging controllers are also known as solar controllers, and they coordinate the work of solar panels, storage batteries, and loads. An effective heat dissipation function is crucial for selecting a controller. Another essential feature is temperature compensation. A smart controller has been added to prevent overcharging and undercharging of solar batteries. You would be better off investing in a smart solar controller with built-in communication that allows real-time monitoring and control of the system. The controller would offer maximum performance and longevity.
8. The sensors
The sensors are of two types:
Microwave induction ( can sense moving objects)
Infrared induction (detect only temperature-bearing organisms)
The PIR or the Passive Infrared Sensor is included in many solar street lights to help conserve energy. The sensors work by measuring infrared light allowing the sensor to detect movement.
9. The solar controller
The solar controller coordinates the work of the panels, loads, and batteries. Hence it is essential to pick a controller which gives you the following benefits:
Good heat dissipation function
Temperature compensation
Prevention of overcharging and undercharging
Built-in communication with interactive control
Real-time system monitoring
Maximum performance and longevity
10. The solar panel
The solar panel is the main component of the solar street lighting system. To determine the quality of the solar panels, you should:
Check for even distribution of the silica gel around the back, backplane and frame.
Examine the string welding for leakage regularity of the cell arrangement.
Examine the pressure quality on the back and check for irregularities like bubbles and wrinkles.
Check the battery panel's tempered glass surface for any foreign matter.
Ensure that each battery cell is complete and created through integral cutting.
11. Service and warranty
Solar street lamps are certainly a big investment. Hence you need to ensure the manufacturer offers an extended warranty period of 20 to 25 years. Also, look for reputable solar street light dealers that offer good after-sales services.
