Are Solar Batteries the Same as Rechargeable?

Solar technology is new in the market so many people have questions regarding batteries and related products. One of the prevalent questions on social media platforms is about the difference between solar rechargeable batteries and regular rechargeable batteries.

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Are Solar Rechargeable Batteries Different from Rechargeable Batteries?

Solar rechargeable batteries and regular rechargeable batteries are similar but solar cells are more suitable with solar products and have some unique functionalities.

Solar batteries store the energy generated from solar panels. However, regular batteries store power from AC chargers.

On many online resources so called experts suggest you to use regular rechargeable batteries instead of solar batteries. However, I personally do not use regular batteries in solar products, so I will not suggest you do this.

Most people do not know the actual function of these batteries. Wrong use of these batteries may lead to overheating and unwanted accidents. That is why I suggest using solar batteries that are made to use with solar panels.

Can You Use Regular Rechargeable Batteries in Solar Lights?

Most of the rechargeable batteries are not suitable to use with solar panels because they are not compatible with the voltage and functions. You can use these batteries as an alternative to solar batteries, but not suitable for long term use.

Please note that solar lights need energy but basically it is coming from the photovoltaic system and the energy source is sunlight. However, you can also use it with chemical energy and power grid, but I do not suggest it.

You need a way to store energy from solar panels. Rechargeable batteries which generate power from chemical energy are not suitable for solar products. The alkaline based batteries store energy from chemical reactions where electrons run from positive to negative charge which produces electricity.

You can leave a solar product by switching it on. It comes with auto-cut technology which automatically stores energy in the daytime and uses it at night.

Besides that, solar batteries generally last longer than regular batteries. You can find a wide range of batteries, find a compatible battery and install it from the comfort of your home. Please do not forget to consider the energy efficiency rating on the batteries.

Are Solar Batteries Different?

Solar batteries are different from the normal NiMh or NiCd batteries because they are designed to store energy generated from solar power. Most of the deep cycle solar batteries are long-lasting and durable.

There are 3 common types of deep-cycle batteries: lithium ion, salt water batteries and lead acid batteries. Most manufacturers prefer lithium ion batteries because they can store more energy in a small package and are lightweight too. Moreover, it offers a better life span than the other batteries.

The only drawback of Lithium ion batteries is overheating but there is smart autocut technology that prevents overheating. That is why I do not suggest you buy cheap quality solar lamps or solar products because they come with low quality batteries and smart autocut which result in overheating.

Before you choose Lithium batteries, please consult with a solar powered technician and find out the compatible batteries for your gadget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use Regular Alkaline Based Batteries in Solar Lights?

It would be better if you did not use alkaline based batteries instead of solar rechargeable ones. Alkaline batteries are not rechargeable batteries. It generates energy from chemical reactions.

What Battery is the Best for Solar Lights?

Solar rechargeable batteries are the best for solar lights because they store more energy in a small package and they are lightweight too.
With this battery, the product gets charged during the daytime and when the sun sets the battery uses stored power to supply energy to the LEDs.
Some brands offer better rechargeable batteries than others.

Can I Use Regular AA Batteries in Solar Lights?

Most of the experts do not prefer regular AA batteries in solar lights because these batteries are not manufactured to use in solar products.
In case of urgent requirement, when you do not have a solar battery, you can use AA battery for a few hours. It can be an alternative but not a substitution.
You should not use a regular battery because it may lead to short circuits and other unwanted accidents because the depletion rate of this battery is very high. Moreover you have to replace the battery frequently so it is not worth it.