Does a Solar Watch Need a Battery Replacement Every Year or Two? My Findings

Do you have a solar watch and wonder how often you need to replace the battery? Short answer: not very often. In fact, most solar watch batteries can last anywhere from 7 to 20+ years, depending on the make, model, and how well you care for your watch.

This is great news for people who want to reduce their environmental impact and save money on battery replacements. But it’s important to note that not all solar watches are created equal. Some solar watches have batteries that are more durable than others, and some models may require more exposure to sunlight to stay charged.

In this article, I’ll take a closer look at how often you should change the battery of your solar watch, the lifespan of a solar watch battery, and when you might need to change your solar watch battery before the estimated lifespan. We’ll also provide some tips on how to extend the life of your solar watch battery.

How Often You Should Change the Battery of Your Solar Watch?

Solar watches are a marvel of modern horology, equipped with rechargeable batteries that are powered by sunlight. The common misconception is that these batteries require periodic replacement like their traditional counterparts. 

In reality, solar watches are built to last, and the frequency of battery changes varies considerably compared to conventional battery-powered watches. So, how often should you change the battery of your solar watch? The good news is, it’s not as frequent as you might think.

What is the Lifespan of a Solar Watch Battery?

Solar watches are like the marathon runners of the horological world. Their batteries are designed for endurance, and you won’t find yourself changing them every year or two. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The average lifespan of a solar watch battery typically extends to two decades or even more, which is quite impressive.

The key to this extraordinary longevity lies in the advanced technology used in these timepieces. Solar watches are equipped with efficient solar cells that can convert sunlight into electrical energy, which is then stored in a rechargeable battery. These cells are built to withstand years of exposure to light, ensuring that your watch can keep running without frequent interruptions.

Generally speaking, most solar watch batteries will last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or more. However, some solar watches have batteries that are designed to last even longer. 

For example, some Citizen Eco-Drive watches have batteries that are claimed to last up to 20 years, even if you never take them off. Moreover, according to Solioswatches, 1 solar watch battery is equivalent to 20 Quartz watch batteries. And their solar watch battery offers more than 50 years of service!

Moreover, solar watches often come with power-saving features. When not exposed to light, they can enter a power-saving mode, conserving energy until they are exposed to light again. This feature further extends the battery’s lifespan, making it possible for your watch to endure without needing a new battery for an extended period.

When You Will Need to Change the Solar Watch Battery Before the Estimated Lifespan?

While the estimated lifespan of a solar watch battery is impressive, there are circumstances under which you might need to change the battery earlier than expected. Here are a few scenarios to consider:

• Battery Failure: Though rare, battery failure can happen. If your solar watch battery fails to charge or store energy properly, it may need replacement earlier than the estimated lifespan.
• Exposure to sunlight: Solar watch batteries need to be exposed to sunlight on a regular basis in order to recharge. If you don’t wear your solar watch often, or if you live in a cloudy area, the battery may not last as long.
• Extreme temperatures: Solar watch batteries can be damaged by extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. If you expose your solar watch to extreme temperatures for extended periods of time, it may shorten the lifespan of the battery.
• Water damage: Solar watches are typically water-resistant, but they are not waterproof. If your solar watch gets wet, it is important to dry it off immediately. Water damage can damage the battery and other internal components of the watch.

In these cases, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional watchmaker. They can diagnose the issue and replace the battery if necessary. Proper maintenance and care of your solar watch can help you enjoy its benefits for a long time.