Frequently asked questions, issues, and misunderstandings can usually be answered and resolved in this section. Click on a category to see a list of questions that pertain to the items in that category. Then click on a question and the answer will appear below it. Although some answers may seem lengthy we feel that a well-informed customer who fully understands the products and how they work will have a more fulfilling experience.
General Questions & Answers
• I don‘t see the answer when I click on a question. Where is it?
If you have a small computer screen or are using a mobile device you may not see the answer because it has popped up below the question, but it is off the screen. Please scroll down to view the answer. The web page does not refresh, jump to the answer, have a separate pop-up window, or bring you to a different page when you click on a question.
• What does the (T) and (C) after some questions mean?
The (T) and (C) at the end of each question refer to when a pump was made. (T) refers to pumps created through to the end of 2008. In 2009 we re-designed the parts, made improvements and sourced much efficient materials, so all the newer versions are refered to as (C).
• I am interested in a product but can not see how to buy it. What does this mean?
Most of the products featured on this website are available to buy direct. There are some products featured that are only sold through wholesale to retail outlets and e-commerce websites and are not available to buy from this site. If you need more information please contact Customer Services.
Solar Garden
• Flutterbys
My Flutterby has stopped working. What do I do?
Make sure the solar panel is clean and is posistioned to recieve direct sunshine.
My Flutterby spins around with no flutter motion. How do i make it flutter?
The fluttering motion improves as the motor spins faster. First ensure the solar panel is in bright direct sunlight. You can also make the motor spin faster by helping to support the weight of the Flutterby. Simply hook the wire over a plant or flower to help support the weight and you will get a faster fluttering motion.
Make sure the solar panel is clean and is posistioned to recieve direct sunshine.
My Flutterby spins around with no flutter motion. How do i make it flutter?
The fluttering motion improves as the motor spins faster. First ensure the solar panel is in bright direct sunlight. You can also make the motor spin faster by helping to support the weight of the Flutterby. Simply hook the wire over a plant or flower to help support the weight and you will get a faster fluttering motion.
• Aruba Bistro Set - Solar module
I have just unpacked my Aruba Bistro Set – how should I charge up my solar lighting module?
Rechargeable batteries self discharge over time and therefore the solar lighting module may not work straight from the box but need a boost charge first. As stated in the instructions, ensure you have removed the sticker on the panel and we recommend that you charge the batteries by placing the solar module in direct sunlight for two days before switching it on.
The solar lighting module has two buttons. What are they for?
There are two modes of operation, white and colour changing, operated by the buttons. Both buttons are simple push switches:
The on/off button is marked with a circular symbol.
- One press: White LEDs only come on
- Second press: Colour-Changing LEDs only come on and continuously change colour
- Third press: All LEDs switch off
The freeze button is marked with a pause/play symbol, which enables you to freeze on one colour from the colour changing cycle. When the light is in the colour-changing mode, pressing the pause/play button will freeze the colour showing at that moment. When pressing the pause/play button again, it reverts back to colour-changing.
What is an LED?
LED stands for light emitting diode; it is a light source similar to a very small light bulb.
My lights are off, but how do I know if my solar lighting module is in the on or off position?
If there is any light showing, then it is turned on. If there is no light showing, then the unit is turned off. The module turns off automatically once the batteries have run out. To check if there is any charge in the batteries, simply press the on/off button and see whether the LEDs switch on. If there is insufficient charge in the batteries, the module will automatically switch off to protect them and the LEDs will not come on regardless of how many times you press the button. We recommend the solar module is placed in direct sunlight for one or two days for the charge to build up in the batteries and then press the on/off button to switch on when required (two presses may be required to start again).
Does my solar lighting module switch on automatically at night?
No – this product is designed to be turned on and off manually when required, and unlike standard solar garden lights does not turn on automatically every day, so power is conserved for when needed. Simply switch the module on and off whenever required regardless of the light conditions.
Should I switch the solar lighting module off after use?
Yes - although the solar lighting module will switch off automatically when the batteries are running low to protect them from full discharge. We recommend switching off when not in use to conserve as much charge as possible for the next time required. If you leave the solar module on overnight, the batteries will run flat.
How long will my solar light module work for?
When fully charged, the battery capacity will allow 8 hours of operation.
How long will it take to fully charge my solar light module?
This will depend on the time of year and your location, but in general the module recharges faster in the summer months and on sunnier days. The further south you live, the recharging time will typically be faster too. Operation times from a single day’s charge will typically be 3-6 hours in summer months but less than 1 hour in winter.
To fully charge the module will typically be 1-2 days in summer months but over a week in winter.
Will I be able to get consecutive nights use from the solar lighting module?
If you conserve the power by turning off after use, any residual power in the battery will then be available for use the next day, and the next day’s daylight will provide further charge.
The LEDs come on but then go out after a few seconds – why?
This means that the batteries are flat and need to be recharged.
In the colour changing mode, only the red LEDs light up – why?
This means that the batteries have little charge and need to be recharged.
How do I clean the solar module?
We recommend that the solar panel is cleaned every two to three weeks to avoid a build-up of dirt on the panel. Gently rub the surface of the panel using a soft clean cloth dipped in lukewarm water. Do not use any harsh chemicals, such as bleach, or any hard wire bristle brushes to avoid damaging the finish.
My Aruba Bistro Set is in the shade for some or all of the day, how do I charge the solar lighting module?
The solar lighting module requires direct sunlight to charge the batteries for the LEDs to function. The module can be taken out from the centre of the table by unscrewing the retaining clips from the underside. The module then lifts out and can be placed in direct sunlight. Simply re-position back into the centre of the table for use when desired.
Is the solar lighting module waterproof?
The solar lighting module is designed to be used outside and can withstand normal weather conditions.
Can the module be outside all year round?
The solar module is designed to be used outside, but we recommend that it is stored inside during frost or freezing temperatures.
I want to use a parasol/umbrella which will shade the Aruba Table during the day. Will my solar lighting module still work?
The solar lighting module requires direct sunlight to charge the batteries for the LEDs to function. If a parasol/umbrella shades the solar module it will not charge. The solar module can however be lifted out of the centre of the table by unscrewing the clips and be placed in direct sunlight to charge the batteries. The solar module can then be placed back into the centre of the table for use when desired.
I would like to place a bowl or decorative item in the middle of the table, on top of the solar module. Will the module still work?
The solar lighting module requires direct sunlight to charge the batteries, so if anything is placed over the solar panel by day, it will not charge.
Can I put anything on top of the solar lighting module at night?
We recommend that nothing is placed on top of the solar lighting module, even at night, since the solar panel could get scratched, in particular no hot items should ever be placed on the solar module which could damage it. The solar module can only support lightweight items.
Rechargeable batteries self discharge over time and therefore the solar lighting module may not work straight from the box but need a boost charge first. As stated in the instructions, ensure you have removed the sticker on the panel and we recommend that you charge the batteries by placing the solar module in direct sunlight for two days before switching it on.
The solar lighting module has two buttons. What are they for?
There are two modes of operation, white and colour changing, operated by the buttons. Both buttons are simple push switches:
The on/off button is marked with a circular symbol.
- One press: White LEDs only come on
- Second press: Colour-Changing LEDs only come on and continuously change colour
- Third press: All LEDs switch off
The freeze button is marked with a pause/play symbol, which enables you to freeze on one colour from the colour changing cycle. When the light is in the colour-changing mode, pressing the pause/play button will freeze the colour showing at that moment. When pressing the pause/play button again, it reverts back to colour-changing.
What is an LED?
LED stands for light emitting diode; it is a light source similar to a very small light bulb.
My lights are off, but how do I know if my solar lighting module is in the on or off position?
If there is any light showing, then it is turned on. If there is no light showing, then the unit is turned off. The module turns off automatically once the batteries have run out. To check if there is any charge in the batteries, simply press the on/off button and see whether the LEDs switch on. If there is insufficient charge in the batteries, the module will automatically switch off to protect them and the LEDs will not come on regardless of how many times you press the button. We recommend the solar module is placed in direct sunlight for one or two days for the charge to build up in the batteries and then press the on/off button to switch on when required (two presses may be required to start again).
Does my solar lighting module switch on automatically at night?
No – this product is designed to be turned on and off manually when required, and unlike standard solar garden lights does not turn on automatically every day, so power is conserved for when needed. Simply switch the module on and off whenever required regardless of the light conditions.
Should I switch the solar lighting module off after use?
Yes - although the solar lighting module will switch off automatically when the batteries are running low to protect them from full discharge. We recommend switching off when not in use to conserve as much charge as possible for the next time required. If you leave the solar module on overnight, the batteries will run flat.
How long will my solar light module work for?
When fully charged, the battery capacity will allow 8 hours of operation.
How long will it take to fully charge my solar light module?
This will depend on the time of year and your location, but in general the module recharges faster in the summer months and on sunnier days. The further south you live, the recharging time will typically be faster too. Operation times from a single day’s charge will typically be 3-6 hours in summer months but less than 1 hour in winter.
To fully charge the module will typically be 1-2 days in summer months but over a week in winter.
Will I be able to get consecutive nights use from the solar lighting module?
If you conserve the power by turning off after use, any residual power in the battery will then be available for use the next day, and the next day’s daylight will provide further charge.
The LEDs come on but then go out after a few seconds – why?
This means that the batteries are flat and need to be recharged.
In the colour changing mode, only the red LEDs light up – why?
This means that the batteries have little charge and need to be recharged.
How do I clean the solar module?
We recommend that the solar panel is cleaned every two to three weeks to avoid a build-up of dirt on the panel. Gently rub the surface of the panel using a soft clean cloth dipped in lukewarm water. Do not use any harsh chemicals, such as bleach, or any hard wire bristle brushes to avoid damaging the finish.
My Aruba Bistro Set is in the shade for some or all of the day, how do I charge the solar lighting module?
The solar lighting module requires direct sunlight to charge the batteries for the LEDs to function. The module can be taken out from the centre of the table by unscrewing the retaining clips from the underside. The module then lifts out and can be placed in direct sunlight. Simply re-position back into the centre of the table for use when desired.
Is the solar lighting module waterproof?
The solar lighting module is designed to be used outside and can withstand normal weather conditions.
Can the module be outside all year round?
The solar module is designed to be used outside, but we recommend that it is stored inside during frost or freezing temperatures.
I want to use a parasol/umbrella which will shade the Aruba Table during the day. Will my solar lighting module still work?
The solar lighting module requires direct sunlight to charge the batteries for the LEDs to function. If a parasol/umbrella shades the solar module it will not charge. The solar module can however be lifted out of the centre of the table by unscrewing the clips and be placed in direct sunlight to charge the batteries. The solar module can then be placed back into the centre of the table for use when desired.
I would like to place a bowl or decorative item in the middle of the table, on top of the solar module. Will the module still work?
The solar lighting module requires direct sunlight to charge the batteries, so if anything is placed over the solar panel by day, it will not charge.
Can I put anything on top of the solar lighting module at night?
We recommend that nothing is placed on top of the solar lighting module, even at night, since the solar panel could get scratched, in particular no hot items should ever be placed on the solar module which could damage it. The solar module can only support lightweight items.
• Aruba Bistro Set - Rattan furniture
Can my Aruba Bistro Set be outside all year round?
All-weather rattan is resilient and can be stored outside most of the year, although we recommend covering your furniture securely or preferably bringing it inside during winter or freezing weather conditions. The furniture can be easily folded flat for storage inside. If you decide to bring your rattan chairs and table inside, it could be perfectly suited for use in the conservatory.
What is my rattan furniture made from?
All-weather rattan furniture is made from durable synthetic rattan on a lightweight steel frame.
How do I clean my rattan furniture?
We recommend you remove the solar lighting module before cleaning. Regularly remove excess dirt from your rattan furniture using a bristle brush to help keep it clean and impair excess dirt build-up. A clean, wet cloth with soapy water can be used to wipe the furniture. The frame can be washed down with a hose to remove dirt and debris. The glass top may be wiped clean using a cloth and soapy water.
All-weather rattan is resilient and can be stored outside most of the year, although we recommend covering your furniture securely or preferably bringing it inside during winter or freezing weather conditions. The furniture can be easily folded flat for storage inside. If you decide to bring your rattan chairs and table inside, it could be perfectly suited for use in the conservatory.
What is my rattan furniture made from?
All-weather rattan furniture is made from durable synthetic rattan on a lightweight steel frame.
How do I clean my rattan furniture?
We recommend you remove the solar lighting module before cleaning. Regularly remove excess dirt from your rattan furniture using a bristle brush to help keep it clean and impair excess dirt build-up. A clean, wet cloth with soapy water can be used to wipe the furniture. The frame can be washed down with a hose to remove dirt and debris. The glass top may be wiped clean using a cloth and soapy water.
Solar Aquatics
• Lily Floating Fountain
How do I get my pump apart to clean it? (T)
Pull the pump away from the Lily. Hold the pump with the label facing you so you can read it. Pull the bottom off gently where the arrow heads meet the pump, without pulling the foam. When the bottom is removed the propeller is visible and all can be cleaned from here. Replace all the parts and push the pump back onto the Lily.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (C)
Pull the pump away from the Lily. Pull the pump in half at the seam. The filter is now visible to gently remove and clean. Replace the filter back into the pump. To clean the propeller gently rotate the funnel to release the casing and remove the propeller to clean. Replace all the parts and push the two halves of the pump back together. Re-attach to the Lily.
My pump has stopped working. What do i do?
Clean the pump as directed above. Make sure the solar panels on the lily are cleaned and positioned in direct sunshine. Check that the wire is in good condition and connected. Make sure the tube running between the pump and up through the Lily fountain is clear from dirt and debris.
Pull the pump away from the Lily. Hold the pump with the label facing you so you can read it. Pull the bottom off gently where the arrow heads meet the pump, without pulling the foam. When the bottom is removed the propeller is visible and all can be cleaned from here. Replace all the parts and push the pump back onto the Lily.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (C)
Pull the pump away from the Lily. Pull the pump in half at the seam. The filter is now visible to gently remove and clean. Replace the filter back into the pump. To clean the propeller gently rotate the funnel to release the casing and remove the propeller to clean. Replace all the parts and push the two halves of the pump back together. Re-attach to the Lily.
My pump has stopped working. What do i do?
Clean the pump as directed above. Make sure the solar panels on the lily are cleaned and positioned in direct sunshine. Check that the wire is in good condition and connected. Make sure the tube running between the pump and up through the Lily fountain is clear from dirt and debris.
• Oxygenator
My pump runs, but doesnt push any air. What do I do?
Make sure the solar panel is clean, placed outside and recieving direct sunlight. This ensures it is working at optimum power to push the air. Spring and Summer are the most efficient months that give the best sunshine. The angel of the sun may also vary the solar panel power, so make sure the panel is directed towards the correct angel of the sun. If your oxygenator is the day version and does not have a battery pack it will work in direct sunshine only. If you have the version that runs during the day and night it does include a battery, so try and replace it with a similar rechargable battery to increase the battery charge. Check the pump and panel for any sign of damage. They should not be placed in the water. Check that the stones and tubes are fully functional without breakages, gaps or air leaks. Ensure there is not any sign of rust or corrosion within any of the visible connections. Make sure the porous air stones are clean and not clogged with dirt or damage. Check that the filtered hole in the pump is clear and not clogged with dirt or debris.
My pump has stopped working. What do i do?
If your oxygenator is the day version and does not have a battery pack it will work in direct sunshine only. If you have the version that runs during the day and night it does include a battery, so try and replace it with a similar rechargable battery to increase the battery charge. The Oxygenator will work all year round, although the panel must receive good, diirect sunshine and you will receive a better functionality during around 20 degrees C. Check the pump and panel for any sign of damage. They should not be placed in the water. Check that the stones and tubes are fully functional without breakages, gaps or air leaks. Ensure there is not any sign of rust or corrosion within any of the visible connections. Make sure the porous air stones are clean and not clogged with dirt or damage. Check that the filtered hole in the pump is clear and not clogged with dirt or debris.
Make sure the solar panel is clean, placed outside and recieving direct sunlight. This ensures it is working at optimum power to push the air. Spring and Summer are the most efficient months that give the best sunshine. The angel of the sun may also vary the solar panel power, so make sure the panel is directed towards the correct angel of the sun. If your oxygenator is the day version and does not have a battery pack it will work in direct sunshine only. If you have the version that runs during the day and night it does include a battery, so try and replace it with a similar rechargable battery to increase the battery charge. Check the pump and panel for any sign of damage. They should not be placed in the water. Check that the stones and tubes are fully functional without breakages, gaps or air leaks. Ensure there is not any sign of rust or corrosion within any of the visible connections. Make sure the porous air stones are clean and not clogged with dirt or damage. Check that the filtered hole in the pump is clear and not clogged with dirt or debris.
My pump has stopped working. What do i do?
If your oxygenator is the day version and does not have a battery pack it will work in direct sunshine only. If you have the version that runs during the day and night it does include a battery, so try and replace it with a similar rechargable battery to increase the battery charge. The Oxygenator will work all year round, although the panel must receive good, diirect sunshine and you will receive a better functionality during around 20 degrees C. Check the pump and panel for any sign of damage. They should not be placed in the water. Check that the stones and tubes are fully functional without breakages, gaps or air leaks. Ensure there is not any sign of rust or corrosion within any of the visible connections. Make sure the porous air stones are clean and not clogged with dirt or damage. Check that the filtered hole in the pump is clear and not clogged with dirt or debris.
• Sunjet 150, Sunjet 300W and Sunjet 500
How do I get my pump apart to clean it? (T)
Pull the pump away from the float. Hold the pump with the label facing you so you can read it. Pull the bottom off gently where the arrow heads meet the pump, without pulling the foam. When the bottom is removed the propeller is visible and all can be cleaned from here. Replace all the parts and push the pump back onto the float.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (C)
Pull the pump away from the Lily. Pull the pump in half at the seam. The filter is now visible to gently remove and clean. Replace the filter back into the pump. To clean the propeller gently rotate the funnel to release the casing and remove the propeller to clean. Replace all the parts and push the two halves of the pump back together. Re-attach to the float.
My pump has stopped working. What do i do?
Clean the pump as directed above. Make sure the solar panels on the float are cleaned and positioned in direct sunshine. Check that the wire is in good condition and connected. Make sure the tube running between the pump and up through the float fountain is clear from dirt and debris.
Pull the pump away from the float. Hold the pump with the label facing you so you can read it. Pull the bottom off gently where the arrow heads meet the pump, without pulling the foam. When the bottom is removed the propeller is visible and all can be cleaned from here. Replace all the parts and push the pump back onto the float.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (C)
Pull the pump away from the Lily. Pull the pump in half at the seam. The filter is now visible to gently remove and clean. Replace the filter back into the pump. To clean the propeller gently rotate the funnel to release the casing and remove the propeller to clean. Replace all the parts and push the two halves of the pump back together. Re-attach to the float.
My pump has stopped working. What do i do?
Clean the pump as directed above. Make sure the solar panels on the float are cleaned and positioned in direct sunshine. Check that the wire is in good condition and connected. Make sure the tube running between the pump and up through the float fountain is clear from dirt and debris.
Solar Water Features
• How do I clean my water feature?
We recommend that all our water features are cleaned every two to three weeks. To clean it, disassemble the water feature and empty the water. Gently rinse the inside of the bowl with clean, lukewarm water to loosen any debris. Using a clean, soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water, gently rub the surface of the water feature to wipe off dirt and unwanted particles. Do not use any harsh chemicals, such as bleach, or any hard wire bristle brushes to avoid damaging the finish. Reassemble the water feature and refill with clean, fresh water.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (T)
Remove the pump away from the water feature. Hold the pump with the label facing you so you can read it. Pull the bottom off gently where the arrow heads meet the pump, without pulling the foam. When the bottom is removed the propeller is visible and all can be cleaned from here. Replace all the parts and attach the pump back onto the water feature.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (C)
For birdbaths, lift the panel and remove the pump. For 2-tier birdbaths lift first tier to reveal the pump and detach from the tubing. Detach the pump away from the tubing or panel. Pull the pump in half at the seam. The filter is visible in one half, so gently remove and rinse with clean water. Replace the filter back into that half of the pump. Remove any algae in the other half by rinsing with clean water. Gently push the two halves back together. Re-attach to the birdbath by pushing the pump back onto the panel and placing into the recess of the birdbath. For two-tier birdbaths, replace the pump onto the end of the tubing and place the first tier back into the water feature.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (T)
Remove the pump away from the water feature. Hold the pump with the label facing you so you can read it. Pull the bottom off gently where the arrow heads meet the pump, without pulling the foam. When the bottom is removed the propeller is visible and all can be cleaned from here. Replace all the parts and attach the pump back onto the water feature.
How do i get my pump apart to clean it? (C)
For birdbaths, lift the panel and remove the pump. For 2-tier birdbaths lift first tier to reveal the pump and detach from the tubing. Detach the pump away from the tubing or panel. Pull the pump in half at the seam. The filter is visible in one half, so gently remove and rinse with clean water. Replace the filter back into that half of the pump. Remove any algae in the other half by rinsing with clean water. Gently push the two halves back together. Re-attach to the birdbath by pushing the pump back onto the panel and placing into the recess of the birdbath. For two-tier birdbaths, replace the pump onto the end of the tubing and place the first tier back into the water feature.
• Can I leave my Water Feature outside all year round?
We recommend that all our water features are stored inside during winter and whenever there is frost or very cold temperatures. You should empty the fountain of all water, dry it off, and store the entire product indoors in a dry and frost proof environment before you get any freezing temperatures. Simply emptying the water out of the fountain and covering it for the winter is not considered proper winter storage and damage will not be covered under the warranty.
• Can I have fish, plants or rocks in my Water Feature?
Keeping fish or real plants in your Water Feature is not recommended. The flow of oxygen in the water can not be guaranteed and the pump will get clogged on a regular basis from uneaten food and natural waste. Rocks can be put in your Water Feature to add decoration or hide the pump if necessary.
• Can I convert my Water Feature to run on mains power?
We have Water Feature adaptors available if you would like to run your Water Feature inside or in areas that receive less sunshine or positioned in shade. Please contact Customer Services.
• My Water Feature doesnt work. What do I do?
1. Check the fountain is positioned correctly, receiving sunlight and not in any shade.
2. Check that the connections between the pump and panel are correctly made and that there is no sign of rust or corrosion.
3. Check that the filtered hole in the pump is clear and not clogged with dirt or debris.
4. Clean the water feature by gently rinsing the bowl with lukewarm water to prevent debris building up in the pump and replace with clean, fresh water.
We recommend regular maintenance and water changes to ensure optimum performance.
2. Check that the connections between the pump and panel are correctly made and that there is no sign of rust or corrosion.
3. Check that the filtered hole in the pump is clear and not clogged with dirt or debris.
4. Clean the water feature by gently rinsing the bowl with lukewarm water to prevent debris building up in the pump and replace with clean, fresh water.
We recommend regular maintenance and water changes to ensure optimum performance.
• My pump runs very loudly and doesn’t pump. What do I do?
The pump can become clogged with debris and may need to be cleaned. Guidance on this is stated above. If the water feature is running out of water, the pump can make a loud noise as it runs dry. Make sure the pump is fully submerged by topping up the water level in the water feature.
• Can I upgrade to Solar-on-Demand?
You can upgrade almost any of our Water Features to Solar-on-Demand. Please contact Customer Services.
• How does my water feature work?
The solar panel uses photovoltaic cells to convert energy from the sun into electricity. This electricity is then used to power the pump and circulate the water or create a fountain effect. Performance is directly related to the amount and strength of sunlight received on the solar panel. This product is designed primarily to operate in summer months but will also work in spring and autumn, provided there is good sunshine.
• How do I assemble my Umbrella Fountain?
In addition to the supplied instructions, we have created a step by step video guide on how to assemble the Smart Solar Umbrella Fountain. The video highlights how the parts are put together and shows you the best method of how to do this.
• How do I assemble my 2-Tier Water Feature?
In addition to the supplied instructions, we have created a step by step video guide on how to assemble a Smart Solar 2-Tier Water Feature. The video highlights how the parts are put together and shows you the best method of how to do this. Please note that all the 2-Tier Fountain designs may differ, so we recommend to reference the supplied instructions alongside the video.
• How do I assemble my single tier Water Feature?
In addition to the supplied instructions, we have created a step by step video guide on how to assemble a Smart Solar single tier Water Feature. The video highlights how the parts are put together and shows you the best method of how to do this. Please note that all the fountain designs may differ, so we recommend to reference the supplied instructions alongside the video.
• I have unpacked my cascade, but how do I assemble it?
In addition to the supplied instructions, we have created a step by step video guide on how to assemble a Smart Solar Cascade Water Feature. The video highlights how the parts are put together and shows you the best method of how to do this. Please note that all the cascade designs may differ, so we recommend to reference the supplied instructions alongside the video.
Solar Lighting
• What does LED mean?
LED stands for light-emitting diode. LED’s have many advantages over incandescent lights including lower energy consumption, longer lifetime, smaller size, faster switching, greater durability and reliability.
• Why do my colour-changing lights stay on red colour?
When the lights stay on red colour they are still working correctly and are not damaged. The colour-changing LED cycles through all correct colours when the battery is fully charged. When the battery for the lights begins to lose charge, the colour that is most responsive to this low voltage battery current is red.
• My solar lights are not working. What do I do?
Check the solar panel is placed in a location to receive good sunshine during the day and not in the shade. Check the solar panel is not in a lit area at night, such as under a lamp post or flood light, as this may prevent the light sensor from switching the light on. Check the panel and any connecting wires for rust or corrosion, as this can prevent the circuit from working efficiently. If your light has an on/off switch, switch it off for a few days to recharge the batteries before switching back on.
• Can LEDs burn out? How long do they last?
LED’s don’t usually burn out under the normal circumstances they are designed for but they do have a life span. They generally last any where between 25,000-100,000 hours (almost 3 years to over 11 years) of use depending on the amount of current going throw them and the temperatures they are used in. With 8 hours of use per day and limited to 20mA of current at room temperature, an LED can be expected to last about 80,000 hours before its brightness begins to substantially reduce and about 100,000 before it has no output at all. LED’s have a high efficiency of about 30-60 lumens per watt. They are durable, efficient and produce light without giving off heat.
• What does PIR mean?
PIR relates to motion sensors and stands for Passive Infra-Red. ‘Passive’ means that the sensor does not emit an infra-red beam, it just accepts incoming infra-red radiation given off by other sources. They sense the temperature within their field of vision and can notice movement of an object with a different temp. PIR sensors are commonly used for home security installations with motion detectors both indoors and out.
• What size objects will set off your PIR motion sensor lights?
‘Motion’ is actually based on an infra-red source with one temperature (such as a person with a higher temp) passing in front of a source with a different temperature (such as a wall with a lower temp). This means that small objects (such as cats and dogs) will activate the light, but objects that are the same temp as their surroundings (no matter how big or small they are) will not activate the light. That way, the light won’t be constantly activated by bushes and trees that are swaying in the breeze in the sensor’s field of vision, to avoid draining the batteries if it’s windy outside at night time.
• How do my solar lights work?
Solar Lights work by using electricity generated by the solar panel to charge internal batteries. These batteries are then used to power the light. When switched on the lights automatically illuminate at night by using a light sensor. The duration of illumination will depend on the amount of sunlight and therefore charge received by the batteries.
Smart Effects
• How do I clean my topiary?
We recommend you use luke warm water and a soft cloth to gently wipe over the leaves.
• My clock has stopped working. What do I do?
We recommend you check the batteries and replace if necessary. If your clock is outdoor check that the visible wires are connected and free from dirt and rust.
