Why Freelite™ Solar Batteries Are So Effective

If you’ve been let down by solar lights that fail too soon or stop working after just one cloudy day, you’re not alone. Many Kiwi's have had frustrating experiences with solar lighting that just doesn’t deliver - especially when it comes to servicing outdoor spaces needing light all year round.

That’s exactly why Freelite™ was created. We've spent years researching and testing solar technologies on the market, in order to bring you high-performance solar lighting systems that are built to last.

More Durable, Safer Battery Technology

At the core of every Freelite™ solar light is a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery. These LiFePO₄ batteries are known for their reliability, stability and over all safety and efficiency. As they are safer to produce and recycle than other Lithium Ion batteries, they are more environmentally friendly too. 

LiFePO₄ technology is ideal for New Zealand’s variable climate. It performs reliably in a wide range of temperatures, designed not to overheat, and doesn’t pose the same safety risks associated with other lithium-ion battery chemistries.

Built-In Battery Management, So You Don’t Have To Worry

Every Freelite™ lighting system comes equipped with an advanced Energy Management System (EMS). This smart internal controller protects the battery by regulating charging and discharging - helping to avoid overcharging, deep discharges, or unnecessary battery stress.

The EMS also manages your light’s dusk-to-dawn function automatically, so your lights turn on when you need them and conserve energy when you don’t. All of this happens behind the scenes, meaning enhanced efficiency and lighting when you need it. 

Reliable Lighting, Even Through NZ’s Darker Months

One of the most common issues with outdoor solar lighting is poor winter performance. 

Thanks to efficient LEDs and an optimised battery capacity, Freelite™ fixtures (when well positioned) are designed to deliver two to three nights of battery life from a single day’s charge. That means even during those grey, rainy stretches of winter, your driveway, path, or garden remains well-lit and safe. On some models this can be extended by selecting sensor, dimming or shorter run time modes to further increase the longevity over cloudy days.

Because the system is designed to reduce daily depth of discharge, battery life is significantly extended. That’s years of dependable use with no extra effort from you.

A Maintenance-Free & Cost-Effective Solution for Outdoor Lighting

Freelite™ solar lighting is designed for people who want performance without the hassle. With long-life batteries and smart automation, these systems are almost completely maintenance-free.

There’s no need to replace batteries every year. Once installed, your Freelite™ fixtures quietly take care of themselves - keeping your outdoor spaces bright, safe, and secure, all year round.

Common Freelite™ Solar Battery Questions 

Question: A 3 year warranty doesn't seem that long. Do you expect your batteries to last longer than this?

Answer: For PVP200-BL, PVT200-BL, PVW207-BL, PVB207-BL, PVT300-BL, PVB300-BL. 

While the warranty is for 3 years, the battery is designed to last longer provided good solar collection is available. The lights will handle around 2,000 charge cycles at 80% discharge - that’s roughly 5 years if the solar light is installed in an optimum location with around 5 hours of direct sunlight most days - and only discharges about 40% each day - then the battery will last much longer. 

Keep in mind that sunlight and location do affect battery lifespan. So it's important the solar panel receives as much direct, unobstructed sunlight as possible.

Answer: For PVB900-BL, PVB909-BL, PVB800-BL, PVB850-BL, PVB809-BL, PVB859-BL, PVB700-BL.

These models have a 5 year warranty and are designed to last longer as the products are of a higher specification. The low wattage and high lumen output capability allows for greater longevity of the battery, while still providing high illumination. The LED wattage within these models is only 1.5 watts, so the DOD (depth of discharge) is less at around 40% -  even on an average day. Therefore, the charge cycles may reach 3000 or more.

Question: Can the solar batteries be replaced? 

Answer: Yes for most models. Please see info regarding battery replacement on the individual product pages. Batteries will be available to purchase from us at the time they are required. We do not recommend you purchase these batteries until they are required, as they will degrade and deplete during storage. Just like a car battery, they need to be in use. 

Ready to Experience Solar Lighting That Reliably Works?

If you’re ready to start your journey with solar lighting, Freelite™ is here to help. Explore our full range of professional solar lighting solutions here.

If you want to learn more about Freelite™ solar lighting, check out our solar information hub here.