Solar lights are a fantastic way to light up your yard, driveway, or garden. Not only do they provide light at night, but they also add a touch of decoration to your property. They work by converting sunlight into electricity during the day, which is then used to power the light at night. Learn how to make replacement stakes for solar lights.
They typically come with a metal stake that is inserted into the ground. However, over time, the stakes that hold the solar lights in place can become broken or damaged. If you find yourself in need of replacement stakes for your solar lights, don’t worry, they’re easy to replace.
With a few simple supplies and a little bit of time, you can have brand new stakes that will keep your solar lights shining bright for a couple more years to come. In this article, we’ll show you how to make replacement stakes for solar lights.
Why You Would Want to Replace Solar Light Stakes
Solar lights come in all shapes and sizes. Some stake into the ground, while others are placed on top of a deck or patio railing. The most common type of solar light has a metal stake that is inserted into the ground. Over time, these stakes can become bent, rusted, or broken.
As they can be expensive, and their stakes are often flimsy and easily broken. When this happens, there’s no need to purchase new ones as it’s easy to replace them. Even better news, replacement stakes for solar lights are easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
You can also make your own replacement stakes with a few simple supplies that you likely already have around the house. If you’ve had your solar lights for a while and are in need of new stakes, don’t despair.
How To Make Replacement Stakes For Solar Lights
See the following information in order to make replacement stakes.
Materials You’ll Need:
![1/2 Inch Diameter Clear PVC Schedule 40 Pipe [Pipe ID 0.602 inch, OD 0.840 inch] (Bluish tint), Choose Your Length (5 Inches to 8 Feet) (Selected Length: 2 Feet)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/215sGEJ-WsL._SL160_.jpg "1/2 Inch Diameter Clear PVC Schedule 40 Pipe [Pipe ID 0.602 inch, OD 0.840 inch] (Bluish tint), Choose Your Length (5 Inches to 8 Feet) (Selected Length: 2 Feet)")
PVC Pipe (1/2-inch diameter)
Hacksaw (if you don’t have a PVC pipe cutter)
Ruler
or measuring tape
Sandpaper (fine-grit)
Wooden dowel
Hammer
Steps to follow:
1. Cut the PVC pipe into a slightly longer length than the height of your solar light. For example, if your solar light is 12 inches tall, then you’ll want to cut your PVC pipe into a 13-inch-long piece.
2. Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to make a clean cut through the PVC pipe. If you’re using a hacksaw, be sure to wrap the end of the PVC pipe in tape to avoid damaging it.
3. Once the PVC pipe is cut to size, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges on the ends of the pipe.
4. Take one of the PVC pipes and hammer a wooden dowel into the center of it. The dowel should be slightly longer than the PVC pipe and stick out of it from the ends.
5. Using a hammer, insert into the solar light through the PVC pipe acting as a junction for the two. The wooden dowel should be sticking out of the end of the PVC pipe while being firmly embedded into the light where the stake goes.
6. Repeat the process for any lights that might need your attention.
7. our replacement stakes for solar lights are ready to use. Simply insert them into the ground next to your solar lights and enjoy!
Safety Measures
Do keep in mind that while working with PVC pipes and wooden dowels, take the necessary safety precautions. Wear gloves and goggles if necessary and work in a well-ventilated area.
To avoid damaging the newly made stakes, drive them into the ground with care in soil that is not too hard. Also, make sure that the solar lights are firmly secured in the ground before leaving them unattended.
FAQ
How long do solar string lights last?
On average, solar-powered string lights have a lifespan of 2 to 3 years. However, this can vary depending on the brand, quality and type of light.
Can you put solar lights in the garbage?
Solar lights can be put in the garbage. However, it’s important to note that solar lights contain small batteries which can leak chemicals into the environment. Therefore, it’s always best to recycle them if possible.
Are solar lights hazardous?
While solar lights are not considered hazardous, they do contain small batteries which can leak chemicals into the environment. Therefore, it’s always best to recycle them if possible.
Conclusion
Replacement stakes for solar lights are easy to find and relatively inexpensive. You can also make your own replacement stakes with a few simple supplies that you likely already have around the house. Making your own is easy and only takes a few minutes. Plus, you’ll save money by not having to purchase new ones.
When making your own replacement stakes, be sure to take the necessary safety precautions. Wear gloves and goggles if necessary and work in a well-ventilated area. Also, make sure that the solar lights are firmly secured in the ground before leaving them unattended.
Replacement stakes for solar lights are a great way to extend the life of your existing solar lights. With just a few supplies and a little bit of time, you can have brand new stakes that will keep your solar lights shining bright for years to come. Give it a try today!
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