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How to Keep Your Home Bright Without Electricity

How to Keep Your Home Bright
Without Electricity

To be prepared for a power outage, you need to have a variety of emergency lighting options, be sure not to settle on just one or two. Sure, some are better than others, but it really comes down to preference. Here are some popular sources of alternative lighting. They are separated into indoor and outdoor use based on the fuel required to run each device.

Alternative Light Sources
For Indoor & Outdoor Use
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Solar Generator

Solar-powered

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Power Failure Lights

Battery-powered

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Light Bulbs

Rechargeable

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Flashlights

Battery, Solar, Hand-crank, & USB

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LED Lanterns

Battery-powered

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Indoor Solar Lights

Solar-powered

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Indoor Oil Lamps

Purified Oil

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Liquid Candles

Paraffin Oil

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Wax Candles

Various Waxes

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Flameless Candles

Battery-powered

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Glow Sticks

Kid friendly

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Alternative Light Sources
For Outdoor Use Only
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Fuel Generator

Propane, Gasoline, Natural Gas

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Gas Lantern

Fuel-powered

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Tiki Torch

Citronella Oil

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Garden Lighting

Solar-powered

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Alternative Light Sources
Which Options Are Right For You?

Solar Generator

Solar generators use solar panels to capture renewable energy from the sun and store it as electricity in either portable or tied-in power stations. They can provide reliable energy as a backup power source in a power outage or on a full-time basis. They run quietly and are low maintenance. During a power outage, having a solar generator will enable you to use much of the same lighting you already use, lessening the need to fall back on other alternative methods included on this page.

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Power Failure Lights

Power failure lights operate just like standard lightbulbs within fixtures and lamps. They are easy to install and are designed for everyday use...with one difference. Power failure lights sense a power outage and automatically switch to power provided by a self-contained rechargeable backup battery. When the power is restored, the battery recharges as long as the unit is connected to AC power, regardless of whether the light is turned on or off and will be ready for the next outage. The time it takes to recharge the battery can vary, and while these batteries are designed for extended use, they typically require replacement over the lifetime of the fixture.

The time a fully charged power failure light stays operable during an outage depends on the light's battery capacity. On average, this is about 3 to 4 hours.

Check compatibility before you buy

While Power failure lights work in most standard light fixtures, there are some limitations. Some models may have issues when used with dimmer switches or in certain fixture configurations; it is advisable to check the manufacturer's specifications for compatibility with your specific setup.

Brands include Energizer LED Rechargeable Plug-in Flashlight and Ideal Security Inc. SK636 Emergency Power Failure Light.

Rechargeable Light Bulbs

Rechargeable light bulbs are a type of light bulb that can continue to provide light even when the electricity goes out. They work like traditional bulbs that run on electricity. The difference is the addition of a built-in lithium battery that charges while the light bulb is in use and plugged into an electric socket. When the electricity goes out, the battery kicks in and continues to provide light, though slightly reduced. Note: while some models are designed to be removed from the socket for portable use as a flashlight or lantern, most are not - always follow manufacturer guidelines.

Recharging

Rechargeable lightbulbs are dependent on electricity to charge and will start the recharging cycle as soon as the electricity is restored - if the switch is turned on. Once the battery is recharged, it will be ready for the next outage.

More features

Rechargeable light bulbs come in various lumen outputs, color temperatures, and recharge times. They are known to be reliable and affordable though they may require periodic battery replacement or maintenance as the rechargeable battery degrades over time.

There are several top brands of rechargeable light bulbs available on the market. Brands include Safelumin, JackonLux, GE Lighting, Neporal, and Flyhoom.

Flashlights

A quality flashlight is a fundamental piece of preparedness gear. Consider a quality flashlight as one of the fundamental pieces of your preparedness gear. All family members should have a dedicated flashlight and headlamp for home use. Each family member should have a flashlight and separate headlamp added to their grab-and-go bag. Both types of flashlights have advantages in different emergency scenarios. Headlamps allow for hands-free lighting, while handheld flashlights give you more control.

When looking for a flashlight, there are three important things to consider: the fuel source, the brightness, and the bulb type. By considering these three factors, you can find a flashlight that meets your needs and preferences.

Fuel Source

The fuel source determines how the flashlight is powered, whether it be by batteries (disposable or rechargeable), solar with USB, and hand-crank.

Battery

While disposable batteries often have a lower upfront cost, rechargeable batteries can be more cost-effective. When preparing for your emergency needs, consider whether to store disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries, or both, based on the devices you use. Disposable batteries generally have a shelf-life of 5 to 10 years, depending on the type, after which their performance may decline due to self-discharge or potential leakage. Regular rotation of your battery stock can minimize the risk of degradation. Learn more about choosing and storing batteries.

Solar with USB

These flashlights are powered by solar energy stored in rechargeable batteries. Look for one that includes a USB charging capability in case of inadequate sunlight.

Brands include PET T09 Solar Flashlight, Delxo Handheld Solar Powered Tactical Flashlight, Greadio Emergency Weather, Flashlight & Radio, and Spurtar Solar Flashlight.

Hand Crank

Works by hand cranking a permanent magnet motor, which then generates electricity for illuminating the attached LEDs. This makes a good backup flashlight in case you run out of power for others.

The Simpeak Hand Crank Solar-Powered Flashlight can be charged using both solar power and a hand crank. It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. The flashlight features a hand crank that can generate power for more than 10 minutes of lighting with just 1 minute of cranking. It also has a solar panel that can charge the flashlight, although it takes around 40 hours to fully charge the flashlight using solar power alone. Please note these times can vary.

Brightness

Lumen Output

A lumen is a unit of measurement for the total amount of visible light emitted by a source. It is used to measure the brightness of a light source, such as a flashlight. There is no one standard range for lumen output for a flashlight. It varies depending upon the intended use and size. For everyday use, a lumen output of 1-300 is sufficient.

The top brands include Cree and Feit Electric. For outdoor use, 300 to 980 is recommended.

Bulb Type

LED Bulb

LED flashlights are known for their wide, bright-white beams and have largely replaced those with traditional incandescent light bulbs. LEDs in modern flashlights are brighter, more durable, and much more efficient than incandescent bulbs, which means batteries last longer.

HID Bulb

High-Intensity Discharge (HID) flashlights can produce extremely bright and powerful light. While HID flashlights are not as common as LED flashlights, they are preferred in situations requiring exceptional brightness, such as search-and-rescue missions or professional outdoor activities. However, they are generally bulkier, take longer to reach full brightness, and are more expensive compared to LEDs, which have largely become the standard for most flashlight applications.

Handheld brands include - GearLight, SureFire, Streamlight, Fenix, and Nitecore. These brands offer a range of handheld LED flashlights with different features and at different price points.

Headlamp brands include - BioLite, Energizer, Fenix, Petzl, Police Security, Coast, Black Diamond, and Ledlenser. These brands offer a range of headlamps with different features and at different price points.

LED Lanterns

Battery-powered lanterns are a safe and convenient source of light during power outages or in other situations where you need portable lighting. They are designed to be portable hand-held lights and are usually equipped with a handle. Battery-powered lanterns are a great alternative to gas-powered lanterns because they can be used indoors, they are generally lighter, quieter, and safer to use around children as they do not generate heat. They are also a popular choice for outdoor activities.

They are available in a variety of styles and sizes, with different features such as adjustable brightness settings and energy-saving modes. When choosing a battery-powered lantern, here are some features to look for: brightness, battery usage, durability, and size and weight.

Different features

Brightness

The brightness of battery-powered lanterns can vary depending on factors such as the brand, model, and usage. While they cannot give out the same intense light as gas-fueled lanterns, some can provide up to 1000 lumens.

Let’s put that in perspective. For outside use, a lantern with 800 lumens and 360-degree light coverage is sufficient. For more contained spaces, a lantern with between 40 and 100 lumens would be more suitable. If you want to have this kind of customizability, be sure to get one with an adjustable brightness setting.

Battery usage

Disposable batteries can give a battery-powered lantern about 10 hours of light. A rechargeable battery can give a quality LED lantern up to 20 hours on a high setting and 100 hours or so on a low. Please note that actual run times depend on the model, battery-type, and usage conditions. Learn more about choosing and storing batteries.

Durability

LED lanterns are known for their durability and efficiency. Some are made with military-grade and water-resistant material. Look for one that is built to withstand rugged use.

Size and weight

Consideration for portability and ease of use if you would like to add this to your grab-and-go bag. For home use, this is not as critical.

For emergency preparedness and long-term power outages brands include Coleman Multi-Panel LED Lantern, Vont LED Camping Lantern, LE LED Lantern, and Blazin’ Sun Rechargeable LED Lantern.

Indoor Solar Lights

Indoor solar lights use solar energy to provide illumination. While some are portable, many are designed for fixed installations and are tailored for indoor use. These lights often feature integrated solar panels for charging, although some models use external panels that can be placed outside or near a window. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs, and color modes, and can be used for a variety of purposes such as room lighting, accent lighting, or serving as backup lights during power outages.

These lights are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Options range from wall-mounted and pendant lighting to string lighting and more. They typically include LED lights, solar panels, and rechargeable batteries, and some models feature built-in sensors for automatic on/off functionality (e.g., dusk-to-dawn) or remote-control operation.

There are many brands of indoor solar lights available on the market. Some popular brands include Niorsun (pendant light with 400 lumens), Mlambert (1000 lumens), Greenlight Planet, KK.BOL, Kyson, and EleLight.

Indoor Oil Lamps

Indoor oil lamps have been used for centuries and are still popular today for their warm, ambient light and decorative appeal. For our purposes, oil lamps are also a practical source of emergency lighting. They often provide brighter light and longer burn times compared to an ordinary candle. They come in a variety of styles and sizes but must be used with standard lamp oil, a derivative of kerosene that has been cleaned for indoor use. It’s more expensive than unrefined regular kerosene, but it is the lamp oil’s special formulation that makes it possible to burn indoors.

Indoor oil lamps can also be called flat-wick lamps or tubular lanterns. If you’re thinking of adding an oil lamp to your arsenal of alternative indoor lighting, make sure you purchase fuel that is specifically rated for indoor use rather than using regular kerosene, which is unsafe indoors. Learn more about using and storing lamp oil.

Lamp brightness

The brightness of an oil lamp can vary depending on several factors, including the design of the lamp, the type of fuel used, and the size of the wick. It's important to note that oil lamps are not designed to provide the same level of illumination as modern electric lighting, so you may need to use multiple lamps or supplement with other light sources to achieve the desired level of brightness in a larger room.

If you choose to have an oil lamp as backup lighting, don't forget to store matches or lighters.

Brands include Hyoola, Lamplight, Ner Mitzvah, The Dreidel Company, Cooking Details, FIREFLY, and Dietz. These brands offer a variety of styles and designs to choose from, so you can find the perfect lamp to suit your needs and preferences.

Liquid Candles

Liquid Candles (aka candle oil lamps) are a type of candle that uses liquid fuel, usually, liquid paraffin (aka liquid candle wax), to produce light. Both terms, “candle oil lamp” and “liquid candle,” are used interchangeably to describe a vessel used to burn liquid paraffin. The bright flame that is produced burns cleanly and efficiently, without smoke or soot, so it is safe to use indoors. It generates a continuous flame much like those given off by wax candles. Liquid candles come in different styles and designs and can be used for decorative and emergency purposes.

Disposable & refillable

Liquid candles are usually made of glass and can be purchased in either refillable or disposable forms.

Disposable brands include Emergency Essentials 115-Hour Candles; Ready Hour 100-Hour Candle; Candlelife Emergency Survival Candle - 115 Hours; SDS Liquid Oil Votive Emergency Candle - 115 Hours; Hollowick Disposable Liquid Candles (various, 8 to 50 Hours); and more.

Refillable brands include Lucid Candle; Lux Mundi; and more. Learn about using and storing liquid paraffin.

When liquid candles should not be used

Be safe and don’t use liquid candles if you think your gas main might have a leak, such as right after an earthquake. If you have lost electricity right after a strong earthquake, use some other method of alternative lighting.

Note: Liquid paraffin oil is liquid candle wax and is for use in liquid candles/candle oil lamps only. It is not suitable for use in tubular lanterns or oil lamps that use flat wick or Kosmos/Matador designs. Use only standard lamp oil for lanterns & lamps that meet this description.

In some regions, including parts of the UK, paraffin oil may have different formulations or have specific regulations regarding indoor use. Always verify that you are using the correct type of fuel for your lamp and location to ensure safety and proper functionality.

If you choose to include liquid candles as backup lighting, don't forget to store matches or lighters.

Wax Candles

Candles are an essential addition to any emergency plan, offering both light and a small amount of heat during power outages or disasters. When selecting candles for emergency preparedness, it's wise to choose emergency candles specifically designed for such situations. These candles are dripless, burn slowly and steadily, and produce minimal smoke, making them safe for indoor use. They are also reusable, unscented, and require no batteries or maintenance. Unlike flashlights or lanterns, emergency candles have the added advantage of not having a set expiration date, ensuring they are ready whenever you need them.

They are usually sold as single candles and have a much longer burn time than regular candles. Brands include - Hyoola, Root Candle, Yankee Candles, Candle by the Hour, UCO, Glade, and Baltic Candles.

It’s not advisable to rely solely on candles during a prolonged power outage. It’s important to have other, more powerful sources of light included amongst your emergency supplies as well. Additionally, candles can pose a fire hazard if not used properly so use with caution.

When candles should not be used

Be safe and don’t use candles if you think your gas main might have a leak, such as right after an earthquake. If you have lost electricity right after a strong earthquake, use some other method of alternative lighting.

If you choose to have candles as backup lighting, don't forget to store matches or lighters.

Learn more about using candles as an alternative light source.

Flameless Candles

Battery-powered candles are also known as flameless candles, LED candles, or electric candles. Flameless candles are a great alternative to traditional candles because they provide the same light but without the risk of fire or the mess of melted wax. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors; scented and unscented; and some even have features such as remote control and timers. Because we never know how long a power outage will last, it’s probably a good idea to get unscented. You can use the candles longer without becoming bothered by the scent.

Battery life

The battery life of flameless candles depends on several factors, including the type of candle, the brightness settings, and the type and number of batteries they use. For most models, batteries require replacement after approximately 300 hours of continuous use, though this can vary based on the specific design and the type of batteries used.

Flameless candles commonly run on AA batteries, which are typically not included with purchase. Some models, however, use CR2 cylindrical lithium batteries, which are often included and can provide runtimes of up to about 200 hours before needing replacement, depending on how the candle is used and the brightness settings selected. Many flameless candles also feature additional energy-saving options, such as timers or dimming modes, which can further extend battery life, making them a practical and choice for long-term use.

Flameless candles are widely available online and in superstores. Some of the best brands include - Antizer, YIWER, Rhytsing, Eywamage, Y YUEGANG, LED Lytes, CANDLE IDEA, Vinkor, Incredle, and Homemory.

Glow Sticks

Also referred to as light sticks, glow sticks are simple and effective light sources. They consist of a plastic sleeve containing hydrogen peroxide and a colored dye, along with an inner glass or plastic vial filled with phenyl oxalate ester. When the inner vial is snapped, the chemicals mix, triggering a reaction that produces a glowing light. Glow sticks are an excellent choice during power outages, offering a low but immediate and safe source of illumination. They are incredibly easy to activate—just bend, break, and shake to light them up.

Each stick can provide up to 12 hours of light. They are also non-sparking and non-heat-producing, making them safe to use in any environment, and can also provide some fun for kids in the process. Additionally, they are waterproof and can be used underwater. With safety glow sticks, you can have instant light for reading, signaling your position to rescuers, or alerting people to your presence. It’s a great addition to any emergency prep plan.

In a power-out situation, a light stick is meant only to supplement your more robust emergency light sources. Store them in a cool, dry place.

Brands include - Cyalume, Windy City Novelties, Recon Medical, Northern Lights, and Coghlan’s.

Fuel-Powered Generator

A fuel-powered generator can be a reliable source of emergency power when the electricity goes out. These generators run on combustible fuels such as gasoline, propane, or natural gas and can power either your home's lighting system or portable versions that allow you to use smaller lighting devices during an outage.

There are three categories of generators that can assist you when your home loses electricity.

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Gas Lantern

Lanterns have been used for centuries to provide light and have been popular since the 1700s. Today, lanterns are still used for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking but can also be used for emergency outdoor lighting. They are designed to be portable and are usually equipped with a handle so they can be carried wherever light is needed. Fuel lanterns, especially those powered by pressurized liquid fuel like white gas or propane, can produce very bright light, often brighter than many LED lanterns.

The brightness advantage of fuel lanterns is most notable in outdoor settings where high luminosity and broad light coverage are desired. Unlike LED, fuel lanterns must be used outdoors due to the production of toxic gases. They also generate a lot of heat so they must be used with care around children and pets.

Gas lanterns run on at least 3 fuel sources: kerosene, propane, and white gas. Let's look at each.

Kerosene Lantern

Kerosene lanterns burn kerosene by pulling it up through a wick within the lantern which then creates light. It is also easy to ignite and can provide a useful source of bright light and heat. Learn more about storing kerosene.

Brands include Coleman, Dietz, Lamplight, Feuerhand, and DNRVK. Dietz has been in business since 1840 and is one of the most well-known brands of cold-blast kerosene lanterns.

Propane Lantern

Propane lanterns are typically easy to use, can generate a lot of light for a long burn time, and provide the bonus of adjustable brightness. Unlike kerosene, where you fill the lantern, a propane lantern needs to be attached to and fit the lantern. Learn more about storing propane.

Brands include Coleman, Lixada, Texsport, Docooler, and Stansport.

White Gas Lantern

White gas lanterns are popular among campers for their high performance. They burn quickly and intensely, producing a very bright flame and significant heat output. Due to their high heat generation, caution is advised during use. While white gas itself is often less expensive than some other fuels, the lanterns may require more maintenance and can be less user-friendly than other options. Learn more about storing white gas.

Brands include Coleman.

Tiki Torch

Citronella oil is an essential oil obtained from the leaves and stems of different species of lemongrass. It has a pleasant and natural aroma for humans but is probably best known for having the opposite effect on bugs. Citronella oil is a natural insect repellant. It can be used in outdoor lighting fixtures such as citronella lamps, tiki torches, and lanterns to keep bugs at bay. In the event of a power outage, citronella oil lamps or tiki torches can offer a modest level of emergency outdoor lighting.

Not only do tiki torches provide steady light, but their ability to repel a variety of bugs is a bonus. Learn more about storing and using citronella oil.

Outdoor use only

Citronella oil is primarily for outdoor use and should not be used indoors. Torches and oil lanterns should always be kept away from flammable materials and only lit in outdoor, well-ventilated spaces. While citronella oil is designed to burn relatively cleanly, suboptimal conditions can lead to smoke and soot production, which may be harmful to breathe and could damage indoor surfaces. Use with caution to ensure safety.

You can find a variety of citronella lamps, torches, and lanterns online or at stores like Walmart and Home Depot. Brands include Seraphic, WNP, Tewei, Sodelic, Birdrock Home, Dikaida, Deco Home, and T&H.

Solar Garden Lighting

Solar garden lights are an excellent way to achieve outdoor lighting without electricity. These lights collect energy from the sun during the day, typically requiring 8 to 10 hours of direct sunlight for a full charge. Like other solar devices, their stored energy depends on the amount of sunlight they receive daily. Once fully charged, they illuminate the surrounding area until the stored energy is depleted, which may occur before dawn in some cases. The cycle then repeats the next day.

Batteries

Solar garden lights come with built-in rechargeable batteries, such as lithium-ion or NiMH, which efficiently store solar energy. These lights are safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly. Designed for outdoor use, they are weather-resistant but, like any electrical device, require proper installation and occasional maintenance. Over time, the batteries may need replacement to ensure continued performance.

Different types of solar lighting

Types of solar garden lights include hanging lights, lanterns, and ground lights. Each brand of solar garden lights has its own features and designs. Here are some features to consider:

  • Brightness - make sure the lights are bright enough to meet your needs.
  • Durability - look for lights that are weather-resistant and can withstand outdoor conditions.
  • Energy efficiency - choose lights with efficient solar panels and long-lasting batteries.
  • Design – while you’re at it, see if you can find good lights that match your outdoor décor.
  • Cost – varies depending on brand, quality, and design but you should expect to pay between $5 to $20 per light.

Some brands may offer lights with different brightness levels, while others may focus on durability or energy efficiency. The best way to determine the differences between these brands is to compare their products and read customer reviews to see how they perform in real-world situations.

You can buy solar garden lights at many home improvement and garden stores, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. The top brands include Gigalumi Solar Pathway Lights, URPOWER Solar Lights, and GardenBliss Solar Garden Lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What alternative lighting methods are right for you?