Does this need to be pluged in all the time? if yes, what is the solar panel for?
1663331
No, it does not need to be plugged in. However, I would advise you on NOT buying this. The light is not that bright and it broke on me in about a year. It collected water in the lighting compartment and is not very reliable
1663332
There is no plug! It's solar charged battery operated light. I have mine under the eve of the house. So as not to get wet. The solar panel is on the roof. Works great. Lights my front yard. I recommend it!
1663333
The solar panel is the only way for it to work. The solar panel is the only way to charge the batteries. You plug it in and leave it alone.
1884963
probably not but I don't see the need to keep it plugged in all the time. just unplug it when the blue lights are lit.
40890
Charging needs AC powerAs long as your solar panel has an inverter to make AC source, surely you can chargeBut this product is no good. I do not suggest buying it.
1137066
Does not use batteries, you have to have it plugged into the electric outlet all the time.
445826
I would not, its designed to have electricity running through it all the time. The battery tender turns on when the battery needs juice. A solar panel is not constantly pulling energy, and this is always turned on. I would ask someone who is an automotive electrician.
1763593
No it's strictly plug in. If that's not a showstopper, then I would recommend it. I use it frequently!
459235
Solar panel needs an adapter to plug into the unit. If you didn't get one with your solar panel you will need to get one.
925843
It needs a voltage regulator to keep from overcharging the powerpack. I have the cheap 10 amp ($15) controller. Output from this panel can exceed 20 volts in strong sunlight.
442506
Side panel on the power pack pops off and the solar panel connection (standard plug) plugs right in. That simple!! I love it!!
453118
Yes, I leave mine plugged in all the time. It stays quite cool when not use.
148161
Of course friend, the panel is high efficiency, full sun generates 22 volts, you need a charge controller 12 Volt so you do not overload the system, it will keep you charged and when the battery is charged, disconnect, which prevents damage to your batteries!
2274230
Yes it can. I leave mine plugged in all the time. I would also consider looking at the Duracell Powerpacks as they have a range of sizes - but they do not have the solar hookup - depends on what you are looking for.
1575519
Well you should have a power supply on your system to constantly charge the battery. The battery is only for backup when the power goes out. Your panel should have a power supply with it
1480424
You can leave plugged in 24/7. Only operates when unit receives D C power from panel and A. C. power from grid
2248593
I leave mine plugged in all the time when not in use. The battery hasn't been a problem for me.
634538
No, it requires the sun to charge and does not store charge. It won't contribute to draining your battery so you can keep it plugged in.
1760584
Plugged in all the time. You can purchase an optional battery pack for it (which will still need to be plugged in to the camera)