Easy DIY Gas or Electric Lamp Post Solar Conversion - plus tips and tricks on buying a solar lamp post light!

When we moved into our 1959 split-level home last year, the original gas lamp post was still in the yard - but it wasn't kicking.

The post was in rough shape, with a lot of the paint having peeled off during the years; the top of the lantern kept blowing off each time we'd get a big windstorm, and, upon inspection, had been disconnected from the main gas line several years before.

I decided I was going to rehab the post, and, because I

a) didn't want to mess around with gas, and -
b) couldn't afford to have electrical run to the post,

I decided to go solar with it.

The hardest part was removing the original lantern - the screws were rusted and painted in place, and required a little extra to get them out. But I did it! And look at it now!



Here's how I completed this easy, one day project.

And, a tutorial on how I made my address sign is coming!

*DISCLOSURE: Please ensure if you are replacing a gas lamp that the gas to the lamp has been properly disconnected by a qualified technician. If your old light is electric, make sure to properly cap and disconnect the electricity to the post before working on it.

Need some ideas for your new lamp post light? Click here to see my curated list on Amazon of the top rated solar and electric post lights!

• New Solar Light!!! (I ended up going with this one by Hampton Bay - but see below - there are several options out there - note in the picture the glass looks yellow, but it's not - it's clear)
• Sandpaper (I used a combination of 80 and then 100 grit)
• Spray Paint (I used a combination of Rustoleum Hammered Black and Hammered Pewter in my attempt to match the aged finish of the new light)
• Spray lubricant (optional) - for any rusty screws you may need to remove
• Sanding mask and gloves (optional) - if you think lead paint may be present
• Safety Goggles

     
A few things I came across in my research which you might consider when choosing a new light for your post:

1. Most post light retrofits are for a 3" diameter pole - double check the diameter of your post before purchasing your light.
2. There are several types of solar lamp post lights to choose from - with various styles, shapes, colors, and colors of light. I had originally picked out this light from Amazon: but didn't like the fact that the light thrown was much cooler than I had wanted - the light I picked casts a nice, warm, yellow light which matches my exterior house lights perfectly: My neighbour ended up putting the light I decided against in several weeks after I did mine (I inspired her!) and the light, in person, is quite cool-colored. Food for thought!
3. Most of these lights will require a replacement rechargeable battery within a couple of years of use. For most they are readily available but be prepared for some minor maintenance.
4. Make sure that your post is not to close to any other light source - like a street lamp - which would make the surrounding area too bright for the light to ever come on, even though it's dark outside (a light source that might mimic daylight)

• Screwdriver or drill (I used my Black & Decker Matrix cordless (LOVE IT!))
• If your old lamp light's screws are rusted in place, you might need a screw extractor kit like I did!
• A sharp blade/exacto knife if your screws are painted or rusted in place (I have this one)
• hammer

1. Remove that old light!

I had some problems removing the old, rusty screws. At first, I tried using a blade to cut around the base of the screw to remove any old paint. No go.

Then, I tried spraying the screws, several times over a few days with this lubricating spray, and then hitting the head of the screw several times with a hammer (in theory, to break the rust bonds) - but - no go.