The SOLVINDEN is a battery-operated LED solar lamp designed for outdoor use, providing illumination without the need for cords or plugs. It is a product from IKEA of Sweden, certified and designed for ease of use and environmental responsibility.
Function Description
The SOLVINDEN lamp utilizes a solar panel to charge a rechargeable battery, which then powers the LED light source. This allows the lamp to operate autonomously, charging during the day and providing light at night. Its design emphasizes simplicity, making it easy to install and operate. The lamp is intended to be placed in an outdoor location where its solar panel can receive maximum exposure to sunlight for efficient charging. It features an on/off button for manual control, allowing users to activate or deactivate the light as needed. The product is designed to be a sustainable lighting solution, reducing reliance on grid electricity and offering flexibility in placement.
Important Technical Specifications
- Source Voltage (DC): 1.2 V
- Battery Type: AAA, rechargeable Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal Hydride)
- Number of Batteries: 1
- Material: Plastic, aluminum
- Product's Protection Rating: IP44 (Ingress Protection rating, indicating protection against solid objects larger than 1mm and splashing water from any direction)
- Service Life: 20,000 hours for the light source
- Battery Capacity: 750 mAh (for replacement batteries)
- Charging Time: 9-12 hours in direct sunlight, or 12 hours in cloudy conditions, for a full charge.
These specifications highlight the lamp's suitability for outdoor environments, its energy-efficient LED technology, and its reliance on a standard rechargeable battery type for power. The IP44 rating ensures its resilience against common outdoor elements like rain and dust. The long service life of the LED light source contributes to the product's overall durability and sustainability.
Usage Features
The SOLVINDEN lamp is designed for straightforward use.
- Battery Insertion: The first step involves inserting the rechargeable AAA battery into the designated compartment. This is typically done by twisting off the top section of the lamp to reveal the battery housing.
- Placement: For optimal performance, the lamp's solar panel must be positioned to receive maximum direct sunlight. This ensures the battery charges efficiently throughout the day.
- Activation: The lamp features an integrated on/off button. Users need to switch the lamp to the "ON" position to enable automatic operation. Once on, the lamp will typically charge during the day and illuminate automatically when it gets dark.
- Installation Options: The SOLVINDEN can be installed in two primary ways:
- Ground Stake: For soft ground, a ground stake can be attached to the bottom of the lamp, allowing it to be easily pushed into the earth.
- Surface Mounting: For hard surfaces like wooden decks or patios, the lamp can be secured using screws. This involves attaching a base plate to the surface with three screws, and then placing the lamp onto this base.
- Charging Cycle: The lamp requires 9-12 hours of direct sunlight to achieve a full charge. In cloudy conditions, it may take up to 12 hours. A fully charged battery will power the lamp for a duration dependent on the amount of charge received and the ambient light conditions.
- Automatic Operation: Once charged and switched "ON," the lamp is designed to automatically turn on at dusk and turn off at dawn, providing hassle-free illumination.
The simplicity of installation and operation, combined with its cordless design, makes the SOLVINDEN a versatile lighting solution for various outdoor settings, including gardens, pathways, and patios.
Maintenance Features
Maintenance for the SOLVINDEN lamp is minimal but crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
- Battery Replacement: The rechargeable Ni-MH AAA battery has an approximate lifespan of 2 years. When the lamp no longer lights up or its performance significantly diminishes, the battery should be replaced. It is essential to replace it only with a rechargeable Ni-MH AAA battery of the same type and capacity (1.2V, 750mAh). This ensures compatibility and proper charging.
- Light Source: The LED light source in this luminaire is not replaceable. When the LED reaches the end of its service life (approximately 20,000 hours), the entire luminaire should be replaced. This design choice simplifies maintenance by eliminating the need to replace individual LED components.
- Cleaning: Periodically, the solar panel and the lamp's exterior should be cleaned to remove dirt, dust, or debris that might obstruct sunlight absorption or reduce light output. A soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surfaces.
- Storage: If the lamp is to be stored for an extended period, especially during seasons with less sunlight or when not in use, it is important to remove the battery. This prevents potential battery leakage or damage and helps preserve battery life. The lamp should be stored in its original packaging or a protective container to prevent mechanical damage and exposure to adverse conditions.
- Disposal: At the end of its service life, both the lamp and its battery must be disposed of responsibly, in accordance with local legal requirements for waste disposal. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol on the product indicates that it should be separated from household waste and handed in for recycling. This helps reduce environmental impact and promotes the recovery of valuable materials. IKEA encourages users to contact their local IKEA store or recycling facility for information on proper disposal methods.
By following these maintenance guidelines, users can maximize the lifespan and efficiency of their SOLVINDEN solar lamp, ensuring it continues to provide reliable outdoor lighting.