Question 1

How does a Solatube Daylighting System work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

What is the approximate light coverage of a Solatube Daylighting System?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

How does a Solatube Daylighting System compare to a traditional skylight?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

Are there any issues with leaks?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What happens on a cloudy day?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

Is there an electric light for nighttime use?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

How much does a Solatube Daylighting System cost?

Accepted Answer

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

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