It’s Time to Debunk Solar Tube Myths

As we transition from summer to autumn, it is time to look at the myths that surround solar tubes, especially the ones that they are ineffective in winter. Many of these myths worry people who are planning to install these devices and affect their purchase decisions, most often in a way that has a negative impact on their home, and their family’s health and causes needless use of electricity. A lot depends on the brand of solar tube you install. Here are the facts about solar tubes from Solatube, the acknowledged brand leader in the field.

Will a Solatube Daylighting System work in cold climates and northern latitudes?

The ability of a tubular daylighting device to capture low-angled winter light may differ significantly from its ability to capture high-angled summer light. The ratio of summer to winter light output can be an indicator of the product’s effectiveness in delivering (or not delivering) consistent light throughout the course of a year. Solatube® Daylighting Systems will produce uniform levels of output regardless of season (or climatic conditions), resulting in steady and reliable interior illumination despite variations in exterior conditions or seasonal changes in the daylighting resource. Solatube products feature dome optics that help collect low-angle sunlight, which is extremely important in northern latitudes. As a result, Solatube® Daylighting Systems have performed successfully in cold weather climates like the Northern U.S.A., Canada, and Northern Europe for more than 20 years.

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. The diffusers and Decorative Fixtures keep a consistent diffusion pattern, regardless of light intensity.

What happens if the dome gets covered with snow?

When just the roof is covered with snow, it may actually increase light output as the white snow makes the roof more reflective. When the dome itself is covered with snow, light output will be reduced but the dome will continue to perform. Tests have indicated that all Solatube® Daylighting System models can resist positive snow loads up to 150 pounds per square foot.

Can Solatube Daylighting Systems tolerate very heavy rain?

Yes, all Solatube® Daylighting Systems are designed with features that prevent water from entering the system. The round shape of the domes themselves prevents water from collecting on the surface. In addition, the circular and seamless, one-piece design of the self-flashing systems allows rain runoff to naturally flow past the daylighting system. As a result, the flashing has no weak points that could separate and allow water to enter. However, an optional turret extension may be added to raise the dome above the roof deck where required. For curb-mounted applications, the height of the curb would raise the dome sufficiently to avoid any rain runoff. The curb itself (made by others) would typically incorporate a water diverter (cricket) for sloped roof applications.

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.

How can condensation be managed?

Condensation in homes or buildings is mainly a winter problem. While condensation cannot be eliminated entirely, Solatube International has made design changes to its daylighting systems over the years to reduce its occurrence. The current systems are designed to allow warm, moist air to escape at the dome level while preventing air infiltration in the tube run and at the diffuser level. Modifying your system with a dome upgrade kit, flashing / curb insulator, effect lenses, severe climate glazing, or curb cap insulation kit may also help, but your local Solatube International, Inc. expert is best suited to determine if these improvements or other changes will help minimize condensation in your Daylighting System.

You can install solar tubes (also known as a tubular skylight or daylighting system) at any time of the year. Even if you live in a part of California that does not see severe winter weather, knowing that your solar tube will work in all weather conditions will give you the peace of mind that every homeowner welcomes. Your home will have year-round daylight indoors, reduced electricity consumption and all the other benefits that come with access to clean pure sunlight in your home, every day.

To get started, all you need to do is contact Sunlight Concepts, the Solatube Premier Dealer for the Bay Area.