A Solar Security Light Versus A Hardwired Light Installation

I am making the assumption that the installation of a solar security light is being compared to the installation of a conventional hard wired yard light. I would suggest that caution should be excercised when simply comparing the physical costs of these two different options. If we simply compare the physical costs, most of the time the solar security light will be more expensive.

However, if the cost of installation is included, then the solar security light is often the more favorable option. How much one would save is of course difficult to estimate and depends heavily on each individual situation. One person may only want to install a light at their front door while the next person may have a large property requiring several lights. I would suggest that the more difficult the installation and the more lights that are installed the more cost effective the solar security light is over the conventional, hard wired yard light.

Let's look at a few of the reasons why: First, when dealing with electrical wiring, it is highly recommended that a licensed electrician handle the installation. In fact, most local governments require a permit to be issued before installation can commence. We will come back to this shortly.

The average hourly cost for a licensed electrician is between $30.00 and $70.00. My research would indicate that it's closer to $70.00, with some also charging for travel. Please note that I'm mot implying that electricians are charging too much. They are highly trained individuals and that's why you hire them. They know what they are doing.

If the installation requires several lights around a property then the decision needs to be make whether to go above or below ground. If below then trenches must be dug and knowledge of underground cables and lines is necessary. Approved conduit for underground is also required. If the installation is with overhead lines length of span becomes important and appearance becomes a consideration. It is clear that an experienced professional electrician should be employed to do this work.

One the other hand if solar security lights are installed there is no hard wiring as each of the lights is a self-contained unit and can be easily installed almost anywhere. Most home owners find the installation of a solar security light easy enough to do themselves.

Secondly, for most local governments a building permit is mandatory for any hard wiring, even for the installation of one light at the front door. The same permit is not usually required for a solar security light because of the low voltage, however, when in doubt about either, call your local authorities. The average cost of a permit, if we use the County of Shasta, CA as an example, is about $24.40. The cost of the permit is generally required to cover the costs of building inspectors who ensure that engineering and safety standards have been met. The last thing a home owner needs is for their home insurance to be voided because they didn't get an inexpensive permit.

In summary, costs can add up quickly when installing hard wired electrical lights. Installing a solar security light may prove to be not only cost effective, it is also more convenient and offers more options for the home owner.