Frequently Asked Questions

How do the SunLights work? 

During the day, the sun, reflected or direct, strikes the silicon based solar panel, generating electricity, which is stored in three AA NiMH batteries.  At night, the stored energy is released to the light emitting diodes, LEDs – which in turn provide light as the electricity passes through the diode.  Any type of light will cause the panels to generate electricity and the power flow to the batteries and from the batteries to the LEDs is controlled by a unique set of diodes and transistors, arranged on a PCB, or printed circuit board.

Why do you use NiMh batteries?

Nickel-metal hydride batteries, abbreviated NiMH, are the same batteries used in most hybrid vehicles such as the Toyota Prius.  They are long lasting, provide high power for their size, are environmentally friendly and are safe for humans – which is not the case for many other batteries, such as NiCad or nickel cadmium batteries.  They also cost more then other rechargeable batteries, however, the tradeoff in saving our environment and the non-toxic nature of their components makes this a worthwhile decision.    

Why are your lights better then a conventional flashlight? 

Cost and the overall user experience – we offer approximately 6000 hours of illumination on one set of AA batteries, compared to 15 hours with a conventional flashlight.  We also can, with our SL-2 version, light up a room.

How do solar panels work?   

Solar photovoltaic panels create electricity when the sun's energy excites the atoms in a silicon layer between two protector panels.  Electrons from these excited atoms form an electric current, which can be used by external devices, in our case, LEDs, or light emitting diodes. 

Where can we buy SunLights? 

Other then via our web store and our on-line programs, our lights are carried by a number of US based specialty shops, zoos and museums, such as Museum of Modern Art, in New York City and Tokyo.  We also have a number of international distributors – including representatives in Europe, Africa and South America.  Please send us an e-mail at sales@sunnightsolar.com for inquires and additional details.

How long do the batteries last? 

The NiMH batteries are designed to last a minimum of 750 cycles to a maximum of 1000 cycles.  A cycle is defined as a charge/discharge sequence; so one night use with one day of charging is one cycle.

Where are you located? 

Our corporate offices are located in Houston, Texas.  Our mailing address is 1720 Bissonnet, Houston, TX 77005.  Our phone number is (1) for the country code 713-522-2320.  Our general inbox is info@sunnightsolar.com.

What is your policy on returns?

We work really hard on quality control and overall level of excellence in design and production, however, if your light fails to operate correctly within twelve months of purchase, we will either refund your money or provide you with a replacement.

Is SunNight Solar a non-profit organization?   

We are a Limited Liability Corporation – LLC, registered in the State of Texas.  We view ourselves as a triple bottom line or 3P company – we make products which are good for people, the planet and we also strive to make a profit, so we can expand and provide more product lines which are good for people and the planet.