The market for solar energy is currently booming, to say the least. For example, the growth rate in solar panels’ instalments has been almost around 49% in the last decade.
As per reports, around 16 million homes are currently using these components for powering appliances.
Even today, there is a big trend toward portable solar panels due to their attractive features.
But why has it become so popular among individuals all across the globe? Well, for starters, solar panels do not affect the course of our environment. Also, these products are quite durable and, thus, can last for more than
They are perfectly safe to use in almost every aspect. In addition, they can also reduce the overall energy bill of a house. Aside from that, solar energy is applicable almost everywhere.
So are you thinking about opting for a solar panel as well to power your outdoor ring cameras? Well, then the Ring Solar Panel would be one of your safest options.
But why are we saying so? In the below sections, we have talked about the titular solar panel in an informative manner. Make sure to check it out!
What is Ring Solar Panel, and Where is It Used?
As the name suggests, the Ring Solar Panel is a type of solar-powered component, which has been designed for powering cam batteries. The product is compatible with both Stick Up Cam Battery and Spotlight Cam Battery as per the manufacturers.
The solar panel comes with several tools and accessories that can help you to set it up quickly. Furthermore, the model also comes with a weather-resistant design. Therefore, you can mount it almost anywhere.
Nonetheless, if you want to get more power during the daytime, keeping it on the rooftop makes sense.
But how are you going to use it? Well, for starters, you will have to install it in a place where it can get enough sunlight. After that, you will have to connect the panel to your Spotlight Cam or Stick Up Cam battery, and you are done.
You will also get a micro-USB charger cord with the product. Thus, you will not need to buy anything extra.
Here is an overview of the Ring Solar Panel’s specifications to help you know about the model more profoundly.
| Specifications | Ring Solar Panel |
| Dimension | 19.68cm x 13.97cm x 1.27cm |
| Available Colors | White, Black |
| Power Connection | 13-feet cable with weatherproof barrel connector |
| Solar Power Rating | 2.2W, 5.2VDC |
| Operating Condition | -5⁰F to 120⁰F, Weather Resistant |
| Supported Devices | Spotlight Cam Battery and Stick-up Cam Battery |
| Mounting Base | Multi-position Mounting Arm |
| Warranty | 1-year Warranty |
The only limitation of the product is that it cannot work with anything else other than Stick Up Cam Battery and Spotlight Cam Battery. So, make sure to keep that in mind while buying it.
Is the Ring Solar Panel Worth It?
In all honesty, security cameras have become one of the most important parts of almost any domicile. They can help you to know about everything that has been going on outside of your house. This way, it becomes easier for you to avert thieveries quite efficiently.
However, these cameras usually feature a battery system. Hence, if you do own it, then you will have to recharge from time to time. It, in turn, can, sometimes, spike the cost of your monthly electricity bill.
So, if you do consider this aspect, then buying the Ring Solar Panel is definitely worth it. The product can help you replenish your security camera’s batteries and keeps it going throughout the whole night.
But, is this the only reason that makes the Ring Solar Panel highly popular in the market? Well, the answer to this question is – no. There are several other benefits available to the product, which make it ideal for almost every aspect.
Let’s check them out!
- Easy to Use
In essence, the Ring Solar Panel is quite easy to use. With it, all you need to do is mount it in a proper place and attach the plug of the camera in it.
And you are done.
Depending on the weather, the product will require only a few hours to recharge your security cams’ batteries. Sounds proficient, right? We bet it does!
- Highly Efficient
The Ring Solar Panel is extremely efficient. With it, you can recharge the batteries of at least three to four cameras.
As mentioned before, the product also comes with a decent micro-USB cord. Therefore, you can recharge the batteries with it.
You may also buy another cord if you wish. The solar panel is compatible with everything.
- Compatibility
If you are currently using a Stick Up Cam or a Spotlight Cam from Ring, then choosing this product would be a one-stop solution for you. It is, indeed, compatible with both of them.
However, you might not be able to use the product with security cameras from any other brand.
- Weather Resistant
As you probably already know, the Ring Solar Panel is weather-resistant. There is a protective glass available on the panel, which saves it from rain and snow-related issues.
Furthermore, it is known to be dirt resistant as well. However, some specks of dust might get accumulated on the panel. So, make sure to clean them on a daily basis.
- Seamless Design
The Ring Solar Panel comes with a seamless design. It looks pretty glossy during the daytime. Furthermore, it is also highly durable. Therefore, you will not have to worry about it getting bashed by anything.
Aside from it, the product also comes in two different colour variants – black and white. So, you can make your choice as per your need and requirements.
In addition to its design, the product is relatively easy to install, as well. There is an adjustable mounting bracket available in the package that makes the job even more comfortable.
How to Install Ring Solar Panel?
As of now, you probably have gotten a decent overview of the Ring Solar Panel. Thus, in this section, we are going to talk about the installation procedure of the same. Let’s get started with it.
1st Step: Choose a Proper Location
The first step of the procedure is all about choosing the best position to mount the solar panel. It is quite imperative to choose a position that gets enough sunlight throughout the daytime.
Well, the solar panel from Ring can work even during cloudy circumstances as well. Nonetheless, it will still be better for you to avoid shady places.
In most cases, people usually do mount solar panels on their rooftops. However, if you do have a huge garden that gets direct sunlight, then you can place it there too.
2nd Step: Keep the Alignment in Check
Have you already found the perfect place to keep your solar panel? Well, then, now, you will have to drill some holes in it.
However, before you do so, we would ask you to bring out your pencil and scale and draw a proper square with it.
Make sure that the alignment of the lines is straight and direct. Otherwise, you will not be able to place the panel in a proper manner on it.
Anyways, once you have completed drawing the square, make sure to bold the screw holes with your pencil. Make sure to check the alignment once again before moving on.
3rd Step: Start Drilling the Holes
Are you thinking about installing your Ring Solar Panel on a base made of concrete? Well, then you cannot opt for the same method as the wooden bases. With the former, you will have to use one or more anchors. Don’t worry. You will get them along with the package.
However, if you want to drill through vinyl or wood, then we would suggest you opt for a proper drill. Some people tend to use a screwdriver. But it is less efficient. So, once you have plugged in the drill, be sure to make the holes in the marked positions.
Try to be a bit gentle while doing so. Otherwise, the wooden base might get cracked. Anyways, once you are done with it, you can place a wall mount on them and attach it. Be sure to check if it has been positioned in a proper and secure manner.
4th Step: Attach the Panel
Now, you will have to attach the panel. You can do so by placing the solar panel on the wall mount and attaching it to the mounting arm.
The arm is adjustable. So, you can customize it by loosening the screw and adjusting it in the proper place.
After attaching the panel, some people tend to forget about tightening the screws of the mount.
Make sure not to do that. Otherwise, the panel might fall down from the top of your rooftop or wherever you have placed it.
5th Step: Remove the Plug from Your Camera
If you have a ring’s security camera, you probably do already know that they come with a weatherproof plug. It is usually included to make them weather-resistant.
It is usually used for charging the camera. So, before you can start replenishing the battery of the product, you will have to remove the plug first.
To do it, you will have to unmount the camera first. Once you are done, you can then take the plug out from it and remount the model again.
6th Step: Plug It into the Panel
Now, you will need to plug the camera into the panel. Make sure to do it as carefully as possible. If you do keep any space in it, then the product might short circuit while raining.
So, once you are done, you can then properly adjust the camera. Make sure that it can cover as much space as possible.
You can also check out this video if you want a graphical guide.
If you have correctly done the whole procedure, the panel will start recharging the camera’s battery right away. Nevertheless, it might not be as quick as you think.
According to Ring, their solar panels will trickle charge the battery by around 1% – 2% throughout the day. However, it will depend on the sunlight exposure of the model.
Nonetheless, some other sources have confirmed that a significant amount of battery power will be replenished during the next few days.
Does Ring Solar Panel Need Direct Sunlight?
Like any other solar panel system in the market, the Ring Solar Panel, too, works best in direct sunlight. However, according to the users, it can also operate during cloudy circumstances.
Nonetheless, the overall power of the charging will not be enough in this aspect. For example, in direct sunlight, the model can recharge around 7% to 8% battery per hour.
But, in the case of a cloudy situation, it might reduce quite significantly (around 2% to 3%).
Is the Ring Solar Panel Waterproof?
Yes, the Ring Solar Panel is, indeed, waterproof. In addition to this, it can repel snow and dirt as well. You can clear them by wiping the exterior of the panel with a small piece of cloth.
Make sure to maintain the cleaning session at least twice a week, especially during the season of winter. It, in turn, will help in keeping the solar panel in perfect condition.
Can Ring Solar Panel Power Two Cameras?
In essence, the Ring Solar Panel is pretty powerful and efficient. Thus, it can power more than one camera at a time. However, the charging speed will, naturally, be reduced a little bit. But, hopefully, that will not be an issue for you.
Conclusion
In all honesty, the Ring Solar Panel is one of the best models currently available in the market. Also, it is perfectly compatible with both the security cameras of Ring. Thus, it should be an added bonus for you.
But, we would still ask you to consider all of your options and try to opt for something that suits you perfectly. However, the Ring Solar Panel is definitely a bang for the buck.