This document describes the Moonrays Solar Lamp with Planter Base, model no. 26339, a solar-powered outdoor lighting fixture designed for garden and pathway illumination.
Function Description
The Moonrays Solar Lamp is a decorative and functional outdoor lighting solution that utilizes solar energy to power its light. It features a lamp head, a decorative post, and a planter base, allowing it to be integrated into garden landscapes or placed on flat surfaces. The lamp automatically turns on at dusk and provides either bright white (BW) or warm white (WW) light, depending on the user's selection. Its primary function is to provide ambient lighting while also serving as a planter for small plants or decorative elements. The device is designed for easy assembly and can be installed in various configurations, including with a ground stake or wall-mounted.
Important Technical Specifications
The solar lamp operates using rechargeable batteries, specifically AA, 1.2V nickel-metal hydride batteries. These batteries are charged by a solar panel integrated into the lamp head, which requires direct sunlight for optimal performance. The unit is designed to fully charge its battery within 2 days when placed in the OFF position under direct sunlight. The light output can be switched between bright white (BW) and warm white (WW) light. The planter base requires a minimum of 10 lbs (4.54 kgs) of soil, gravel, or stone when used in its planter configuration to ensure stability and prevent tip-over.
Usage Features
Pre-Assembly and Installation:
The manual outlines two primary assembly methods:
- Planter Base Assembly (Figure 1): This method involves assembling the lamp head (A), lantern adapter (B), decorative post (C), top finial (D), bottom finial (E), extension post (F), and planter base (H). The planter base is designed to sit on a flat, level surface and must be filled with at least 10 lbs (4.54 kgs) of soil, gravel, or stone for stability.
- Planter Base Assembly with Ground Stake (Figure 2): This method adds a ground stake (G) for increased stability when placing the unit in the ground. Users are cautioned not to force the ground stake into compacted soil and to create a pilot hole if necessary.
- Planter Base Assembly (Wall Mounted) (Figure 3): This configuration allows the planter base (H) to be mounted to a wall or post using screws (I) and wall anchors (J). This provides an alternative for areas where ground installation is not suitable.
- Alternate Ground Mounting (Figure 4): This method uses the ground stake (G) directly with the extension post (F), decorative post (C), and lamp head (A), bypassing the planter base.
Operation:
Before initial use, the battery must be fully charged. This involves placing the unit in direct sunlight for up to 2 days with the switch in the OFF position. Once charged, the user can select either "BW" for bright white light or "WW" for warm white light. The solar light will then automatically activate once it gets dark.
Battery Replacement:
Battery replacement is a straightforward process (Figures 6 & 7). The user must move the switch to OFF, carefully remove the top by turning it counter-clockwise, remove the battery compartment cover, and replace the battery with an equivalent new AA, 1.2V rechargeable battery, ensuring correct polarity. After replacement, the unit should be reassembled and fully charged again.
Maintenance Features
General Care:
- Solar Panel Cleaning: The solar panel should be cleaned periodically with a soft damp cloth or paper towel to remove dust, snow, and debris. Abrasive cleaning agents should be avoided to prevent scratching or damage to the UV coating.
- Battery Replacement: Rechargeable batteries should be replaced annually for optimum performance. Only rechargeable batteries of the same size should be used.
- Winter Storage: To prolong the product's life, it is recommended to store the unit indoors during winter months, especially in regions prone to snow and ice. Batteries should be removed and stored in a dry location.
- Snow and Ice: If the light assembly is covered with snow or ice for an extended period, the batteries will require at least 8 hours of recharge time.
Troubleshooting:
The manual provides troubleshooting tips for when the solar light does not turn on at dusk:
- Ensure the solar light is not affected by other nighttime light sources (e.g., streetlights).
- Verify the solar light is not in constant shade throughout the day.
- Check for correct battery installation.
- Replace the battery if necessary.
Safety Precautions:
- Battery Handling: Rechargeable batteries contain nickel-metal hydride and must be recycled or disposed of properly. Mixing old and new batteries, or different types of batteries (alkaline, standard, rechargeable), is prohibited. Batteries should not be disposed of in fire as they may explode or leak, and they should not be ingested.
- Stability: When using the planter base, it must be placed on a flat, level surface and filled with a minimum of 10 lbs (4.54 kgs) of soil, gravel, or stone to prevent tip-over and potential injury or product damage.
- Ground Stake Installation: When inserting the ground stake, users should never push the fixture into the ground by pressing down on components from above. In compacted soils, the ground should be moistened, and a pilot hole should be created with a screwdriver to avoid breakage.