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FAQ

  • How does a Solatube Daylighting System work?
    From sunup to sundown, the Solatube® Daylighting System captures the sun’s rays using an optical dome mounted on the roof. The light is then transferred downward through proprietary Spectralight® Infinity, the world’s most reflective tubing. Designed for minimal light loss, it also easily manoeuvres around obstructions with no structural changes required. When the light reaches the interior, it is delivered evenly throughout the space through specially designed Solatube diffusers and/or Decorative Fixtures.
  • What is the approximate light coverage of a Solatube Daylighting System?
    For Residential applications The light coverage area varies among our Solatube® Daylighting System models. Keep in mind different light levels are required for different tasks. As a result, the approximate coverage areas are shown below for ambient light levels. Solatube Daylighting System 160 DS (10 in. / 250 mm) up to 200 sq. ft (19 sq. m) Solatube Daylighting System 290 DS (14 in. / 350 mm) up to 300 sq. ft (28 sq. m) These estimated lighting areas are based upon an average 6 ft (1.82 m) tube length and 8 ft (2.4 m) ceiling height with the dome in direct sunlight. For Commercial applications Please consult a Solatube Commercial Representative as acceptable illuminated areas will vary greatly due to ceiling heights and space uses. Our commercial experts are well-versed in application-specific Solatube design and light analysis for both new and retrofit projects.
  • How does a Solatube Daylighting System compare to a traditional skylight?
    Traditional skylights have their place as do tubular daylighting devices (TDDs). There are a few key benefits of the Solatube® Daylighting System, however, that allow our TDDs to perform better than skylights. Some of these include: flexible location options low-cost installation optimal thermal performance optical enhancement devices no structural changes consistent and visually comfortable daylighting easy customization with modular components
  • Are there any issues with leaks?
    Solatube® Daylighting Systems have a variety of seamless, self-mounted flashing options, curb-mounted caps and roof accessories that, when combined with the dome and seals, provide a virtually leakproof system.
  • What happens on a cloudy day?
    Solatube® Daylighting Systems maximize the amount of daylight available for lighting your interior, regardless of sky conditions. Our proprietary Raybender® 3000 and LightTracker™ Technologies in our domes combined with our Spectralight® Infinity Tubing transfer the maximum amount of daylight from the rooftop down into the interior with minimal light loss, even on cloudy days. Keep in mind your light output is always relative to your light input. There will be a noticeable difference in light intensity between a clear, sunny day and a heavily overcast day. Our diffusers and Decorative Fixtures keep a consistent diffusion pattern, regardless of light intensity.
  • Is there an electric light for nighttime use?
    You can get day and night lighting in one unit with the revolutionary Solatube® Smart LED™ System. Uniting daylighting with LEDs, it can save you up to 94% in energy costs. Featuring proprietary SunSense™ Technology, the system monitors daylight levels and allows the LEDs to activate automatically only when needed. The optional Occupancy Sensor makes the system even more energy efficient by preventing the LEDs from turning on unless an underlit area is occupied. For the Solatube Brighten Up® Series, you can also get day and night lighting using one of our light kit options that can be wired to a wall switch. Compact Fluorescent Light Add-On Kit Add a dedicated compact fluorescent fixture to use with the Solatube Daylighting System as a recessed light fixture at night. Accepts one 26-watt compact fluorescent lamp (GX24q-3 Base, 26W 4-pin). Meets California Title 24 bath light requirements. Two fixtures may be used with the Solatube Daylighting System 290 DS. Universal Light Add-On Kit with Medium Screw-in Base Add on a light fixture to use the Solatube Daylighting Device as a recessed light fixture at night. The Solatube Daylighitng System 160 DS Light Add-On Kit accepts (1) Compact Fluorescent Lamp, Medium Base - 23 Watt Maximum, Total Maximum Length 4 3/4 in (120 mm). The Solatube 290 DS Light Add-On Kit accepts two Compact Fluorescent Lamps, Medium Base - 23 Watt Maximum, Total Maximum Length 4 3/4 in (120 mm). Integrated LED Light Kit Allows integration of electrical light for a cleaner ceiling appearance and nighttime illumination, from a single fixture, Available for 330DS and 750DS, Main features of the add on kit are (All-in-one ceiling fixture, Dimmable LED, CRI: 80, 0-10v Controller options, High efficiency LED: Lumens/Watt > 100, LED rated @ 50,000 hours, 10,000 Lumens (330DS & 750DS), 4,000K Temperature.
  • How much does a Solatube Daylighting System cost?
    Solatube® Daylighting Systems vary in price based on a number of factors, including: System model Roof type and pitch Tube length and angles Optional accessories and add-ons, such as Daylight Dimmers and tubing extensions Regional economy and location Installation costs are listed separately, and vary based on complexity and difficulty of the install. Call us and we will provide you with a free assessment and estimate. Call +962 79 845 0932 or request a quote at elecmaticjo@gmail.com
  • Is the Solar Star Attic Fan quiet?
    The Solar Star® Attic Fan features a brushless DC motor that reduces noise and lightweight, polymeric fan blades that minimize vibration. The result is whisper-quiet operation.
  • How does the Solar Star Attic Fan perform in extreme temperatures?
    The Solar Star® Attic Fan is designed to work in the harshest of climates, from the scorching southwestern regions of Arizona and Texas to the frigid northern areas of Canada and Alaska. Featuring a Venturi design for maximum airflow capacity and durable polymeric fan blades for high performance and reliability, the Solar Star Attic Fan equalizes interior and exterior temperatures to safeguard your home against the extremes of summer and winter.
  • Do Solar Star Attic Fans run at night?
    There are no batteries on Solar Star® Attic Fans that will store energy. Thus, they only run when daylight is available on the solar panel.
  • Does the Solar Star Attic Fan have an on/off switch or thermostat?
    Attics are meant to be ventilated year-round, and the Solar Star® Attic Fan is designed to run whenever daylight strikes the solar panel. During the winter, proper ventilation helps prevent condensation from forming within the attic. If moisture does accumulate, it could cause significant heat loss from the home if the attic insulation gets wet. A cool, dry attic is the best solution for keeping heat inside during the winter. If your attic is properly insulated and moisture buildup is not a concern, but cold temperatures are, then the optional Solar Star Thermal Switch may be the solution for you. While the Solar Star Attic Fan does not have an on/off switch, the optional Solar Star Thermal Switch can be added to turn off the fan when the temperature in the attic is cooler than 65° F (18° C). It will also turn on the fan when the temperature in the attic is warmer than 85° F (29° C), giving you greater control over the operation of your Solar Star Attic Fan.
  • What if I install a Solar Star Attic Fan on a section of the roof that doesn't have all-day sun exposure?
    The Solar Star® Attic Fan runs best when the solar panel is in direct sunlight. Although the unit will continue to operate in the shade (provided the sky is bright), it will run at a reduced speed. On a roof that is heavily shaded for most of the day, a Solar Star Roof Mount 1200 Add-on Panel is recommended. The extra panel can be placed up to 15 ft (4.5 m) away from the main roof unit—if possible, in an area that has all-day sun exposure—to boost performance.
  • What is the dimensions of the individual model and how heavy is it?
    Sunpad with an empty weight of 62 kg (single AR glass) and dimensions of 2.220 mm x 920 mm x 198 mm
  • What makes Sunpad different to other Solar water heaters?
    The integrated collector-storage system offers a high-quality and design-oriented solution. With its all-in-one system Sunpad is unique on the market.
  • How does the Sunpad work?
    Sunpad is the world`s first tankless solar water heater. It has a storage tank that is integrated into the collector. The principle is easy but brilliant: Water is heated and stored directly in the solar collector. Thanks to the integrated storage tank, hot water is created the minute sunlight hits. This process is quick and the water always remains fresh and clean. The smallest amount of sunlight can be converted into heat and used effectively – so you can save solar water heater costs.
  • How does Sunna Design solar street lights work?
    Sunna Design solar street light consists of a solar panel or photovoltaic cell that collects the sun’s energy during the day and stores it in a rechargeable gel cell battery. A solar lighting system consists of various components, including an intelligent controller that prevents the solar panel from overcharging the battery bank. It also senses when there is no longer any energy from the sun and automatically turns the LED light on using a portion of the stored energy in the rechargeable battery.
  • Will the lights still work if it’s cloudy?
    Sunna Design lights work even after cloudy days. During daylight, even when overcast, the solar panels continue to charge the batteries, and the system is designed to work for at least four days with no sun!
  • What are the steps in your system check?
    Every project runs through a series of comprehensive and real-life simulations to determine the best, most cost-effective solar lighting system for a specific location. Then, our internal team of solar lighting experts double-checks the system configuration and lighting layout to ensure you have the best light uniformity, meeting the right light levels at the most affordable price; this will guarantee that every light is installed and commissioned correctly.
  • How many vents do I need?
    We recommend that one vent be installed for every 90m2 of roof space. It is also important to remember to allow the air to be replaced from somewhere, and so we recommend 4 eave vents per roof vent, and ideally one internal ceiling grille, to allow any hot trapped air to escape from inside your home.
  • Will my natural ventilator work if there is no wind?
    Yes, a large proportion of the flow generated by a natural ventilator during the day is caused by a phenomenon known as 'Stack' effect. This is basically the process of hot air rising.
  • Are the vents noisy?
    Bradford Ventilation natural ventilators are designed to run silently. The Bradford Ventilation powered ventilators are designed to run as quietly as possible, but depending on installation location may be audible to the home occupant.
  • Which side of my house is best to position the ventilator unit?
    When possible the ventilator unit should be installed on the prevailing wind side.
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