Solar Lighting & the Portable Sanitation Industry

Portable restroom operators use solar lights for spots without easy electrical access. They’re valuable features for construction sites and off-grid events. However, solar lighting isn’t always designed well. Potential issues like dim illumination and high failure rates could turn them into pricey accessories.

Although solar lights have drawbacks, many PROs successfully use them to increase the value of their services. Get a return on your investment with a solar lighting installation, replacement, and promotional strategy. Learn more with the following tips.

Solar Lighting for Portable Sanitation: Pros and Cons

Solar lighting hasn’t always had the best reputation. Consumer lighting products dim after a few hours. Moisture damages internal components. Many seem to fail after the first year or two. And foggy, cloudy, or smoke-filled skies can prevent the sun from recharging solar panels.

Once you cut into your portable restroom unit, you’ve made a fairly permanent decision. When it’s time to replace a non-working light and you don’t have a replacement that is an exact match, the replacement could be an inch too big or too small. These concerns can hold PROs back from considering solar lighting.

However, commercial solar lights have come a long way. They offer long battery life, double locking mechanisms, and ultra-bright LEDs. By partnering with a reputable manufacturer, you can find an affordable solution with the right features.

Identify Solar Lighting Solutions

There are several solar lighting options, including several developed specifically for portable toilets and trailers. Solutions built for porta potties may have advantages over consumer units, like locking mechanisms that prevent theft after installation. Working with a solar lighting manufacturer also helps you develop a long-term replacement solution, making it easier to find the correct size and report quality issues.

When researching vendors and products, consider these questions:

• What size hole is required?
• Do you need a dome style for high-end events?
• What do user reviews say about life expectancy versus vendor specifications?
• How much will you spend per light for materials and installation?
• How long does it take to charge, and how long will it last?
• What is the light output?
• Are there any components where moisture will cause an issue?
• Do any solar lighting solutions offer battery backup?
• What warranty does the vendor offer, and what does it cover?

Explore Solar Lighting Promotional Opportunities

Once you’ve added solar lighting to your portable restrooms or trailers, ask your clients for feedback. Use this information and your understanding of what your customers need or want to develop promotional materials and marketing campaigns. Remember to take photos of your porta potties illuminated at night or in unique locations.

Generate more revenue from your solar-powered rentals by touting benefits such as:

• Increases safety at events and worksites
• Enables emergency or construction teams to begin work earlier and stay later
• Allows organizers to locate portable restrooms in a better location
• Offers more possibilities for off-grid locations
• Provides emergency backup solutions for power outages

Is It Time to Consider Solar Lights?

Solar lights aren’t necessary for every portable restroom business. But they can add value. Consider attending a trade show or speaking with PROs who have installed solar lighting in porta potties. Both networking methods can identify potential solutions.

Looking to Take Your Portable Restroom Business to the NEXT LEVEL? Download our FREE Guide: “Your Guide to Operating A Portable Restroom Business.”

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