Does Ring Solar Panel Need Direct Sunlight?

Security cameras provide a great sense of relief to you when you are at work. But a durable and all-time working security camera will give you peace of mind. This is what Spotlight Cam Battery or Stick-Up Camera Battery is made for and if you pair them with a ring solar panel it is going to give you 24/7 coverage of the footage. I am sure you want to know does ring solar panel need direct sunlight. There is much more that you will get to know along with the right place for ring solar panel placement.

Does Ring Solar Panel Need Direct Sunlight?

A ring solar panel is a simple device that needs direct sunlight for it to work. It also depends on the usage of the device. Usually, 3-4 hours of sunlight exposure is enough for the device to charge the batteries sufficiently. But the intensity of sunlight is also a matter of concern here. Take a look at the solar power rating. With a few hours of good sunlight, the camera gets completely charged.

Solar Power Rating

It indicates the amount of energy that the solar panel is capable of producing. The wattage and its working capacity under different conditions are also determined by its Solar Power Rating. The ring solar panel has a 2.2 Watts Solar Power Rating, which means that your camera will get enough power to operate.

Factors Influencing the Power Rating

The wattage output of every panel is specific because they consider the following factors:

• Number of cells
• Effectiveness of solar cells
• Type of solar panel

Once these things are determined, the power rating is calculated by merging the size of the panel with the efficiency of the cells.

Also See: How to Choose Solar Panels for Food Truck

What is a Ring Solar Panel?

A solar panel designed to power the ring solar cam is known as the ring solar panel.  For a continuous charge, it can also connect to a stick-up battery of the 2nd and 3rd generations of the Spotlight Cam Battery. It makes sure that you’ll never run out of power. After learning about does ring solar panel need direct sunlight, know the device also. It comes with an easily adjustable mounting bracket. It is affordable and offers you a chance to always stay connected with the cam as it never runs out of battery.

The company Ring is a well-established company providing security solutions for business and private properties. They offer affordable and user-friendly home security solutions.

Features:

1. Size: Compact size of the device is its plus point and an outstanding feature too. The ring solar panel comes in size 7.75 x 5.50 x 0.50 inches.

2. Power Rating: The 2.2 watts Solar power rating of the ring solar panel gives it the efficiency to charge your camera in a couple of hours.

3. Color: Yes, you get a color option too because ring solar panels are available in two colors: black and white. Choose a color that suits your preferences.

4: Weather Resistant: A correctly mounted ring solar panel can withstand hail, thunderstorms, or hurricanes. Also, all this could not affect its durability. It has also been verified and approved by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL). After this, let’s see how long do ring solar panels last.

How Long Do Ring Solar Panels Last?

The answer to does ring solar panel needs direct sunlight was just the beginning of this informational journey. The ring solar panel is an upgraded version of the original ring solar panels designed to power the ring spotlight cam or Spotlight Cam Plus. These panels are tending to last as per the output derived from them, but the company promises that you will not have to change it before 6 months. The output of the ring solar panel is around 5 watts which will power the camera for a day. During the day, power reserves will be around 100% which will keep it running.

At night when the cam is using the battery reserves, you will notice that there is a sharp decline in the power reserves of the solar panel. By the time it is time for sunrise, the power reserves will drop to around 45%.

The sun charges the battery of the solar panel up to 25% every day. So, if the reserve was at 45% by the next sunrise, then at sunset the battery will be at 70%. With this, you have perfectly learned how long do ring solar panels last.

How is Ring Solar Panel Placement Done?

The placement of the panel is essential in terms of the amount of sunlight it receives. You can follow these steps to successfully understand how ring solar panel placement is done-

1. Select the Location

Now that you have learned does ring solar panel need direct sunlight or not, the next thing you should focus on is its installment. You have to decide whether the panel will be mounted or installed. Whichever you choose, make sure the location receives the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. A shaded region or a place where the panel will not receive direct sunlight will result in reduced efficiency of the device.

2. Line the Panel

Use a pencil and the mountain arm (provided with the panel) to mark every screw hole. These marks will guide you in drilling holes in the right place. Make sure the holes are level and aligned.

3. Drill the Holes

Anchors are provided with the panel, and you may need them also depending on the type of wall you are drilling the holes into. Like if you are drilling a hole into a brick or concrete wall, use the anchors to keep the ring solar panel fixed properly. But if you are drilling the hole in wood or vinyl then screws are fine. Now, secure the wall mount with the screws.

4. Attach the Panel

By sliding the ring solar panel on from the top, you have to mount the panel. If you feel that the position should be adjusted, loosen up the screws on the mountain arm a little bit, adjust the angle and tighten the screws back.

5. Remove the Plug

There is a waterproof plug on the back of the camera which you have to remove. For this, detach the mounting plate of the camera, remove the plug and reinstall the camera back.

6. Connect the Ring Solar Panel

Connect the power cable to the ring solar panel and put the charging cable into the camera at the spot from where you took off the waterproof plug.

Also See: Why Transparent Solar Panels Are The Future?

How to Install a Ring Solar Panel?

After learning about ring solar panel placement, you should also learn about its installation. The solar panel is accompanied by a power cable (13 feet), screws, an anchor, and a drill bit. So, all you have to do is mount it in the best spot to receive maximum sunlight during the day.

Step 1: Select the best possible and most lighted (solar light) area in your house.

Step 2: Screw the mount and adjust the angle then snap in the solar panel.

Step 3: Plug the power cord into the camera.

Step 4: Create or log into your Ring Account.

Step 5: Tap on Set a Device to add that newly installed ring solar panel.

Step 6: Scan the QR code on the Ring Device.

Step 7: Pin your location into the system.

Step 8: Select the category, whether it will be installed indoors or outdoors.

Step 9: Name the device and wait for the camera to enter this setup mode.

Step 10: Connect your camera to the newly installed Ring Device.

After this, let’s explore- does the ring solar panel charge the battery?

Does Ring Solar Panel Charge the Battery?

After learning does ring solar panel needs direct sunlight, you should also be curious about knowing does the ring solar panel charge the battery. Yes, the ring solar panel charges the battery of your Ring Spotlight Cam Battery or Stick-Up Camera batteries. Ring solar panels are designed with a trickle charge system. It means that the batteries will be charged at the rate of 1% to 2% each day. Now, it’s time to learn about the ring solar panel operating temperature in the following para.

What is the Ring Solar Panel Operating Temperature?

After seeing does the ring solar panel charge the battery, let’s further discuss the ring solar panel operating temperature. The ring solar panel is durable in consideration of the range of temperatures in which it can work. It is highly durable with a sleek appearance. It can easily operate and endure temperatures ranging between -20° Fahrenheit and 120° Fahrenheit. Also, it is water-resistant. Now it’s time to answer the question most people are curious about- does ring solar panel work in winter?

Also Read: Do Solar Lights Charge When Turned Off?

Does Ring Solar Panel Work in Winter?

After learning about ring solar panel operating temperature in the following para, you must also be curious about does ring solar panel work in winter. Because ring solar panels run on solar energy and in winter the intensity of sunlight is pretty low, people are always curious to know does ring solar panel work in winter.  Yes, it works accurately in winter. This solar panel is designed to last longer than you expect it to. It is durable and can withstand harsh weather and temperatures ranging between -20° Fahrenheit and 120° Fahrenheit. Despite the season, if your solar panel receives enough sunlight it will continue to extend the life of your current battery.

But the amount of sunlight received during winter is not adequate and there are hardly any peak sun hours. As a result, the battery will be charged slowly in comparison to summer. To ensure that your ring solar panel is working fine in winter, ensure that the panel receives sunlight for about 3-4 hours per day.

Factors Affecting the Solar Panels Working in Winter:

a) Snow

After learning does ring solar panel need direct sunlight, you must already have an idea that snow isn’t good for your solar panel. If there is a thick layer of snow on the panel, it will not receive enough sunlight. Without solar energy, there will be no production of new energy. The battery will not get enough power and its life will not be extended.

b) Not Inclined Correctly

If you have mounted the panel in a place where it is not receiving the maximum inclination during the day, then it will not work properly. The little amount of sunlight will be used by the panel to charge the battery to a limited extent. This reduces the battery life.

c) Position

A ring panel must be mounted at a high point that is not covered by the shadow of any nearby building or tree. It is essential for solar power generation. A place where it gets into shadow in the last hours before the sun sets will only cause hindrances in its working.

Also Read: Can a 300 Watt Solar Panel Run a Refrigerator?

Do Ring Solar Panels Need Cleaning?

After finding out does ring solar panel work in winter, you should also be curious about the cleaning needs of ring solar panels. Yes, these panels do need cleaning since they are exposed to weather conditions. But it does not mean that you can splash water with high pressure on the panels. If the solar panel is within reach, clean it with a damp cloth and then with a dry cloth. Smashing or rubbing the panel will hardly scratch the surface.

Effects of Scratches

The information does ring solar panel need direct sunlight is important but knowing about the effect of scratches on solar panels is also as important. There will be tiny shadows on the panel underneath the tempered glass if the surface is scratched. This is going to leave a long-lasting negative impact on the solar panel as it will reduce the energy production of the panel.

Steps to Clean Ring Solar Panels

• Use a soft sponge or cloth dipped into warm soap water.
• Use a squeegee to remove dirty water from the panel.
• Avoid substances that can scratch the panel.
• Remove oily stains with a rag and isopropyl alcohol (oily patches appear on the panel if your house is near a highway or airport).
• Avoid strong cleaning liquid.
• If you are still unsure, call the professionals to do the job.

Why Does Your Ring Camera Keep Going Offline?

There can be various reasons behind your ring camera going offline, like-connectivity issues, power issues, or even a faulty battery that can cause interruptions. Here are the possible reasons and ways to fix these issues:

a) Wi-Fi Connection Interrupted

If there is a notification about the ring camera going offline and online once in a while, it could possibly be because of the interruption in Wi-Fi connectivity. In such situations, first, check whether your router is working fine or not. If you are still unsure, reset it by turning it off. Wait for 1 minute and then switch it on. But if this does not resolve the issue, call the technician.

b) Power Surge

If there is no issue with the network connectivity, then it could be in the power supply. Check for any interruptions in the power supply to the camera. If this seems to be the issue, then reset the breaker switch. Then give time to your camera to power back up and reconnect. But if then also the switch keeps tripping and the problem remains, seek professional help.

c) Camera is Located Outside the Coverage Area

According to the studies, brick, metal, or concrete may block or interfere with the Wi-Fi signals. Different gigahertz have different coverage ranges. Therefore, make sure that you install your camera within the range of your Wi-Fi. Also, other devices connected to Wi-Fi may be reducing their efficiency.

With this, we have come to the end of this article named-Does Ring Solar Panel Need Direct Sunlight? After going through so many questions and answers, you now know that just like any other solar panel even ring solar panels need direct sunlight to operate efficiently.

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