Solar lanterns are one of the easiest ways to create ambiance in your garden, on your patio, or on your balcony without electricity. In a northern climate, however, their use often raises questions: why doesn't the lantern light up in the evening, how much sun is needed, and does the lantern work on a balcony or under a canopy?
At Sasu's, we have sold over 3,000 solar lanterns in Finland over two summer seasons, and the most common questions almost always relate to charging and placement. In this guide, we will clearly explain how a solar lantern works and how to get the most out of it in Finnish conditions.
How does a solar lantern work?
The top of a solar lantern has a solar cell that collects solar energy during the day and stores it in a rechargeable battery. When the surroundings start to dim, the lantern automatically turns on.
Important note: the battery only charges properly when the solar cell receives direct sunlight. Mere “daylight” or light in the shade is usually not enough for a full charge.
How much sun does a solar lantern need?
Ideally, the solar cell receives about 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In the Finnish summer, this is often easily achieved in a garden or on an open terrace.
If the lantern stays in the shade for most of the day, the battery will not have time to charge, and the lantern may only glow for a moment in the evening or not light up at all.
Does a solar lantern work on a balcony?
Yes, but only if the solar cell receives direct sunlight. In balcony use, charging problems are common because the lantern is often hung too high or the balcony's orientation does not get enough sun.
The most common mistake: the lantern is too close to the balcony ceiling
When the lantern is hung right against the balcony ceiling, the solar cell easily remains in the shade. Even if the balcony is bright, direct sunlight does not hit the cell, or the rays hit the cell diagonally, in which case the battery does not charge sufficiently.
Balcony orientation matters
South and west-facing balconies generally receive the most direct sun. East-facing balconies may get plenty of sun in the morning, but less in the afternoon. On north-facing balconies, direct sun may be minimal, which can lead to insufficient charging of the solar lantern.
Tip: test the best spot
Move the lantern during the day and see if the sun actually hits the solar cell. Even a small move lower or to a more open spot can solve the charging problem.
Can a solar lantern be used indoors or under a canopy?
Solar lanterns are designed for outdoor use. However, some models, like Lumiz, offer a separate rechargeable module that allows the lantern to be used indoors as well. If you are considering indoor use, check on a product-specific basis whether a power solution suitable for indoor use is available for the lantern.
Why doesn't the solar lantern light up in the evening?
If a solar lantern doesn't light up, the reason is almost always related to charging or placement. Here are the most common reasons:
- The solar cell has not received enough direct sunlight during the day.
- The lantern has been in the shade for most of the day (e.g., the balcony ceiling or wall shades it).
- The battery has not had time to fully charge during the first days of use.
- The lantern's switch is not in the "ON" position (some models have a separate switch).
Tip: give the lantern as much direct sunlight as possible during the first few days so that the battery can fully charge.
How to get the most out of your solar lantern?
- Place the lantern in a spot where the solar cell receives direct sunlight for as long as possible.
- Avoid hanging it right up against the ceiling if it shades the solar cell.
- Test different spots on the balcony – even a small move can help.
- Consider the seasons: in spring and late summer, the sun is lower and shadows lengthen.
Are solar lanterns waterproof?
One of the most common questions about solar lanterns is whether they can be left outside in the rain. The question is understandable because many solar lanterns resemble paper lanterns in appearance. In the cheapest models, the material can indeed be paper or thin paper fiber, meaning the lantern won't withstand moisture or rain for long.
However, in solar lanterns designed for outdoor use, the material is usually something other than paper. Many higher-quality lanterns use, for example, synthetic fiber materials or plastic, which repel water and withstand varying weather conditions better.
The Lumiz solar lanterns in Sasu's selection are made from Tyvek fiber material. Tyvek is an extremely light yet strong synthetic material that repels water and withstands outdoor use well. Therefore, the lanterns can withstand normal rain without problems. However, it is advisable to bring the lanterns indoors or to a sheltered place for winter so that snow, ice, and strong winds do not stress the structure.
High-quality solar lanterns
Not all solar lanterns are the same. In quality models, the solar cell and battery are more efficient, allowing the lantern to operate more reliably even in varying conditions.
The Lumiz solar lanterns selected for Sasu's collection are designed to withstand outdoor use and perform as well as possible even in the northern summer.
This guide is based on the Sasu's interior design store staff's own experiences from selling and using thousands of solar lanterns in Finnish conditions.
Explore solar lanterns
Do you want to find a solar lantern that works reliably even in Finland? Explore our selection of solar lanterns and find the perfect option for your terrace, balcony, or garden.
