If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to bring more light into your home, then solar tubes are the answer.
Solar tubes can be used in any room where natural lighting is an issue. They also work well if you want to brighten up dark areas of your house or highlight certain parts of it.
In this article, we will discuss at length the best solar tube lighting, product features, advantages, things to consider before buying and frequently asked questions posed by both new and old users.
Solar Tube Skylights
Solar Blaster Roof Light Tube
Velux Skylights Solar Tube Light
Our Top 9 Solar Tube Lighting
Solar tubes come in different shapes and sizes, so, there is one perfect for every room. We here have meticulously chosen products which will suit everybody’s taste and will save you the hassle of sifting through thousands of products.
1. Natural Light Energy Systems Solar Tube Skylights
The Natural Light Energy Systems 10-Inch Tubular Skylight is the perfect way to add organic light and ventilation to any space.
It is a great alternative to skylights that require roof penetrations and can be installed in dormers, cathedral ceilings, lofts and more.
This tubing is 4 feet in length and has undergone extensive hurricane testing to ensure it is durable.
The light output is equivalent to 300 watts and can illuminate 150 square feet of your home.
Natural Light Energy Systems Skylights are available in both fixed (non-opening) and venting models of these best solar tubes.
The polycarbonate tube features an ENERGY STAR qualified low-E3 coating to prevent fading on clothing, furniture, and rugs while providing UV protection.
These 10-inch tubular skylights are designed to easily fit into existing roofs without cutting or altering your home. They are affordable and offer all the quality of a high-quality product.
Moreover, These products are NFRC-qualified, which means you can expect high energy efficiency.
Also, They are also water tight and maintenance-free, making them an easy choice for homeowners looking for added natural light in their homes.
All in all, this 10-inch tubular skylight is a great investment that will illuminate and ventilate your home for years to come.
Highlighted Features:
- Can be installed in dormers, cathedral ceilings, lofts and more.
- Equivalent to 300 watts.
- Illuminates 150 square feet of your home.
- Fits into existing roofs without cutting or altering the home.
- Energy star qualified for energy efficiency.
Verdict:
These 10-inch tubular skylights are designed to easily fit into existing roofs without cutting or altering your home. They are affordable and offer all the quality of a high-quality product.
2. Solar Blaster Store Solar Roof Light Tube
Solar LightBlaster is a high efficiency shingled roof light that produces natural sunlight for your home or office. It is the ideal solution for sheds without natural solar light, as well as those who want to benefit from a sunny energy source.
The Solar LightBlaster includes an acrylic dome with two-piece aluminum trim and an exterior flashing. It also has a 7” tall spun aluminium reflector that can be adjusted to direct the light where needed.
The patented design of the Solar LightBlaster allows it to be installed on any shingled roof without cutting into the underlying plywood deck.
This is achieved by using a proprietary flashing system that forms an airtight seal between the top of the unit and the bottom of the deck, creating a vacuum space between them.
The only thing you need to do to enjoy this solution is to find a reflective space outside your shed and put up a transparent dome on your roof, linked by a short electromagnetic tube with an inside diffuser.
With this system, it’s always day with your roof covered! As far as we can tell, this system makes tremendous use of sunlight.
This vacuum space prevents water from entering through leaks in your roof and provides resistance against wind uplift pressure caused by high winds.
In addition to that, it also has anti-vandalism properties thanks to the complete transparency of the acrylic dome that lights up our homes.
Installing it is simple and straightforward; all you have to do is set it up.
Finally, with this tool from Solar Blaster Store, you will no longer have to worry about solar tube costs.
When you see this tool in action, you will appreciate what it can do for your life!
Highlighted Features:
- This solution provides natural sunlight for your home or office.
- No plywood deck needs to be cut while installing Solar LightBlaster.
- Prevents water from entering through leaks in your roof
- Provides resistance against wind uplift pressure caused by high winds.
- Installation is straightforward, simple, and easy.
Verdict:
The Solar LightBlaster is a high efficiency shingled roof light that produces natural sunlight for your home or office. It is the ideal solution for sheds without natural solar light, as well as those who want to benefit from a sunny energy source.
3. Natural Light Solar Tube Lighting System
Get the Natural Light solar tube lighting system to make your home more energy-efficient and help you save money on electricity!
The arrangement of the solar tube is easy for even beginners. There are some things you need to know, but once that is done the rest of the task is easy. It’s possible to use this tubular light as a nightlight source.
Most solar tube kits include all the hardware and sealant required to assemble it once it is purchased.
This sun tunnel is made with black flashing, a domed prismatic indoor diffuser and 4-foot tubing.
The 13-inch diameter daylight pipe can light up 300 square feet. It is also equivalent to 500 watts. You can purchase turret extensions or tile roof flashing kits separately.
It will illuminate up to 300 square feet. The patented dome prismatic interior diffuser spreads light evenly throughout the room, reducing hot spots that can occur with flat-lens models.
This item will fit fibreglass-asphalt roof shingle roofs. It is made from high-quality materials and can withstand all weather conditions.
This energy-saving product is ENERGY STAR qualified for its energy efficiency and it saves us from incurring heavy electric bills every month.
This solar tube is not only more expensive than regular sun tubes with frames, but it also doesn’t contribute to heat loss or gain.
Highlighted Features:
- Can be easily assembled by beginners.
- Can be used as a nightlight source.
- Luminous area of 300 square feet.
- Made with black flashing.
- Fits fibreglass-asphalt roof shingle roofs.
- Accredited by energy star for energy efficiency.
Verdict:
The Solar LightBlaster is a high efficiency shingled roof light that produces natural sunlight for your home or office. It is the ideal solution for sheds without natural solar light, as well as those who want to benefit from a sunny energy source.
4. Natural Light Solar Roof Light Tube
Are you considering installing a skylight on a flat roof? Then, the natural solar light skylight Kit is a great option.
This tube light is highly rated and recommended by many people who are interested in using clean energy products in their homes.
The Natural Light Solar Roof Tube is the most efficient solar-powered roof light on the market. It is an innovative way to bring natural solar light into your home.
Natural Light solar roof light tubes are designed to illuminate up to 150 sq. ft. of space and provide the equivalent of 300 watts of electrical lighting output for your home, garage, shed or any other structure with a flat roof.
This Skylight for flat roof applications has been proven to be one of the most efficient ways to bring free, abundant natural sun light into any room in your home.
It is an easy to install, energy-saving alternative to traditional skylights and other solar tubes.
Natural Solar Light makes the highest quality solar tubes available. This brand sells a variety of tube lights that can be used on different roof types, including pitched roofs and flat roofs.
For those looking for solar lighting that is maintenance-free, this 10-Inch Tubular Skylight Kit offers one of the best options. You don’t have to do anything after the installation is complete.
This best rated solar tube lighting will provide you with natural solar light for your home or business while reducing your monthly electric bills.
The product has been tested and approved by the Florida Building Commission as a safe alternative to traditional skylights.
The tube can be installed over existing flat roofs without difficulty and comes in a variety of sizes to fit almost any application.
This gives you additional peace of mind knowing that you can get help if anything goes wrong with your tube lights.
All in all, the Natural Light Solar Roof Tube is a great choice for those who want to bring natural sunlight into their home or office.
Highlighted Features:
- 100% maintenance-free.
- Efficient, cost-saving alternative to electric lighting.
- Reduce your monthly electricity bill.
- Free, abundant natural solar light into any room in your home or business.
Verdict:
The Natural Light Solar Roof Light Tube is an innovative way to bring natural solar light into your home. This tube light is highly rated and recommended by many people who are interested in using clean energy products in their homes.
5. Velux Skylights Solar Tube Light
In the face of North America’s decline in natural solar light, tube skylights have been a popular home improvement trend as they provide a visible source of natural solar light.
The problem is that many solar tubes require direct daylight to power internal nightlights and other features.
These LED lights have created a solution for those who prefer soft lighting to replace their nighttime illumination from the sun!
This discrete LED solar night light fits perfectly in your tubular, sun tunnel or natural light tube skylight.
This Solar Tube Light is easy to mount by removing the light diffuser lens. It can also be used directly from your tube skylight and charged with the sunlight through the dome.
After being fully charged, the Tube Skylight Solar Night Light can provide up to 72 hours of illumination before it needs another charge.
This discreet product fits inside your sun tunnels without requiring any installation skills or tools, just take it out of its packaging and install it into your existing solar tube.
This Solar Tunnel Lamp’s soft glow will be most effective in bathrooms and hallways, but it can also be used throughout the house without taking up too much space.
The 100 Watt Power Soffit Strip is a great option for those looking for more power. It has many benefits that can be used in any environment.
Light output still cuts down on high energy costs indoors during the day with low CO2 emissions!
Charge the Night Lighting System from Solar Tube Skylights in under six hours in direct sunlight. It can provide light for up to 72 hours when fully charged.
The bottom line is, this is a really great product that fits almost any tube skylight with ease and provides an additional light source with the natural solar light from the tube skylight.
Highlighted Features:
- Can be used without replacement
- Charges up in 6 hours via solar power, providing light for 72 hours when fully charged.
- Quick installation, easy to charge and install.
- Gives continuous, low-intensity illumination.
- Fits in any tube skylight.
Verdict:
This discreet product fits inside your sun tunnels without requiring any installation skills or tools, just take it out of its packaging and install it into your existing solar tube.
6. VELUX Solar Tube Sky Lights
Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular skylight is a great option for anyone who wants to makeover their rooms.
Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular skylights are a type of thrift lighting source that can easily be mounted on your roof and connected to any other part of your home.
The 10″ Double Strength Acrylic Rigid Low-Profile Sun Tunnel Skylight from VELUX is designed to be installed on Shingle/Shake roofs with 15 to 60-degree pitch.
This skylight has a low profile flashing that provides an integrated look with the roofline. The 99.99% silver reflective layer of this skylight offers total reflectance +98 Percent and Energy Star qualified for high efficiency.
The product description made me realize that it only uses energy from the sun. It is, therefore, free of any cost and will save you money on your electricity bills.
You may be a little nervous about the installation, as it might sound like you’re drilling a hole in your roof. Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular skylight doesn’t require any major overhaul once it is assembled.
According to its specifications, solar tubes can be installed in less than 2 hours. A solar tube requires very little space, and requires a bit of setup to reap the long-term benefits.
Because of the low profile flashing feature, I believe that solar tubes for houses will give your roof structure a unique and high-value look. Light tubes can be used on Shingle/Shake Roofs measuring between 15 and 60 degrees.
Experts claim that solar tubes can be therapeutic. Natural sunlight can lift the mood, reduce depression triggers and be healthy for your body.
Highlighted Features:
- Uses Sun Energy to Operate.
- Low Profile Flashing with an integrated look.
- Requires very little space.
- Requires a bit of setup to reap the long-term benefits.
- Can be used on Shingle/Shake Roofs measuring between 15 and 60 degrees.
Verdict:
Solar tubes are lovely and they make you feel good about yourself. Please, always remember to ask the right questions before buying them.
7. Solar Blaster Store Solar Tube Lighting System
Solar LightBlaster is an innovative shed light that installs on your roof to make the most of the sunlight. The Solar LightBlaster solar panel gathers the sun’s energy during the day and disperses it inside your shed at night.
These best solar tubes come with a circular template to help you mark where you want to attach it for optimal performance, plus a packet of hardware.
The low profile design, sturdy construction and energy-efficient lighting make solar tubes the perfect choice for any shed. The natural light from the sun will be a better source of light for our own energy levels and focus at work than artificial lighting.
The installation process of solar tubes is simple, and no wiring is required to get started right away. The inner globe of solar tubes is made of plastic and has a diameter of 11 inches and it distributes light inside the shed.
The Solar LightBlaster tubular Skylight is very easy to install. The template of these best solar tubes are included to assist you in cutting the circular hole in the container’s roof.
It is made up of three pieces and fits together so easily. These best solar tubes will save you money by eliminating the daytime use of electric lights.
So, we can say that This tubular, low-profile skylight will provide a lot of light to your dark container. Let the sunshine during daylight hours illuminate your container and save electricity.
Highlighted Features:
- Light Blaster is an innovative shed light
- Low profile design, sturdy construction and energy efficient lighting.
- Stores the sun’s power during the day and disperses it at night.
- This circular template helps you mark where you should attach the light.
- Installs in a snap and no wiring is required for installation.
Verdict:
A very convenient and easy to use Solar Tube System for any shed. The installation process is simple, and no wiring is required to get started right away.
8. Natural Light Solar Tube Light Fixtures
Natural Light is a highly efficient solar tube designed to bring natural light into your home.
The Natural solar tube light fixtures illuminate up to 300 sq. ft. of space while reducing energy costs by an average of 50%.
A unique, patented design allows for a quick and easy installation that requires no framing or roof penetrations.
The result is a clean, sleek appearance that blends seamlessly with most architectural styles and decor.
Natural Light’s Tubular Skylight Kit is a cost-effective way to bring natural light into your home. The tubular skylight kits are designed to provide supplemental lighting and ventilation in homes, offices, stores, schools and other buildings.
Natural Light’s Tubular Skylight Kit is the clear choice for replacement skylights.
The Hurricane Tested/Approved high-impact acrylic dome will provide you with a beautiful view day or night.
The most popular style of tubular skylight kit is the 13″ model with flat roof flashing for asphalt type roofer installs.
The equivalent of up to 500 watts depending on installation, this tubular skylight kit is the perfect choice for bringing sunlight into your home or office at a fraction of the cost of traditional skylights.
This tubular skylight kit serves as both a roof penetration flashing and replacement skylight that is easily installed by an experienced roofer with little to no additional framing required.
Lightweight and easy to work with, each Natural Light tubular skylight kit is made from high-impact acrylic with UV inhibitors.
The bottom line is, you will not find a better solar tube on the market.
Highlighted Features:
- Installation is quick and easy since there is no framing required.
- Provides skylight replacement kit with tubular penetration flashing.
- In asphalt type roofs, the 13″ tubular skylight kit is most popular.
- Skylights can generate up to 500 watts depending on the installation.
- Made from high-impact acrylic with UV inhibitors.
- Lightweight and easy to work with.
Verdict:
Natural Light is a highly efficient solar tube designed to bring natural light into your home. The Natural solar tube light fixtures illuminate up to 300 sq. ft. of space while reducing energy costs by an average of 50%.
9. Velux America 14 in. Tubular Skylight
The Velux America Sun Tunnel with Flex Tubing is a skylight designed to fit over the existing roof structure on homes with either fiberglass or shake type roofs.
The VELUX Sun Tunnel is a skylight that lets the sun shine through your roof to illuminate rooms below. It’s made of acrylic so it won’t rust or corrode like metal skylights do.
This 14-inch scope has an acrylic dome, adjustable tunnel, and innovative flashing made from pitch metal.
We were surprised to find that this flexible tube light was convenient for us to install around our roof barrier. When used in shorter tunnels, this solar tube diffuses light effectively.
Even if you don’t live in an area susceptible to hurricanes, you should buy this daylight pipe as it was a sturdy unit.
This sun tunnel was designed to be used with low-profile roofing materials or shingles. This tubular skylight is a great investment as it provides ample lighting for our homes during the day.
As with all tubular skylights, the amount and quality of light that this sun tunnel produces will depend on the time of day as well as the amount of sunlight. Realistic expectations are essential.
This tube light works well in confined spaces like a small bathroom without windows.
All in all, this tunnel is a must-have if you would like more light in your house.
Highlighted Features:
- Fits over an existing roof.
- Pitch metal flashing, a dome made from acrylic, and an adjustable tunnel.
- Provides ample lighting for homes during the day.
- Good for confined spaces like small bathrooms without windows.
- Does not rust or corrode as metal skylights do.
Verdict:
This skylight is best for those who are looking to cut down on electricity bills. This unit is sturdily constructed which provides ample lighting for homes during the day.
Factors to Consider:
You should consider the following factors when choosing your ideal solar tube to ensure that you are satisfied with your purchase.
Roof Types
Be aware that not all solar tubes are appropriate for all roof types. Today, the majority of high-quality sun tunnels are only available for roofs that are designed using asphalt.
However, you can make your metal or tile roof compatible with a flashing adapter if it is constructed of metal or tile.
It is fortunate that most kits include one of these tubes. If your roof slopes between 15 and 60 degrees, you need a flashing adapter.
Flexible vs Rigid
You can choose from flexible or rigid sun tunnels. Depending on the distance you prefer the light to travel, you may want to choose the best natural solar light energy system for your home.
It provides a direct path down to the room, so a rigid sun tunnel can diffuse more light. This option, however, is usually more expensive.
However, flexible sun tunnels should be used more often in flat-roofed houses and should be used for short distances only.
Local Weather
UV protection is generally found in the best sun tunnels. Hence, it is unnecessary to worry about sun damage within your residence.
However, if you live in an area with extreme climate conditions, such as severe weather, you might want to opt for a stronger option.
Conditions such as rain, snow, and storms can be tolerated by many solar light tubes because they have been all-weather tested.
Essentially, it is imperative that the dome of the solar tube be constructed from plastic.
Room Dimensions
Solar tubes that have different sizes are able to transmit different amounts of light.
Consider which room you are illuminating when choosing a light fixture. Assess the size of your living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
This will allow you to determine the appropriate tube size. Generally, a 10-inch light is capable of illuminating 150 square meters or so.
Cost
Solar tubes are very affordable, which is one of their most appealing features. You can expect to pay approximately $750 for a professionally installed solar tube.
The affordable cost is due to the ease of installing solar tubes and the fact that they do not require structural changes in the home. Their cost-effectiveness and practicality are especially evident in houses that have attic space.
Space
Solar tubes save space in addition to saving money. No matter how big the tubes are, their footprint is still not very large. Flexible tubing allows for their installation within the house, as opposed to remodelling it to accommodate them.
They occupy little roof space, and their tubes can be positioned anywhere in the house, extending throughout to all rooms. You can also install it side by side of an electric light for optimum lighting positions.
Installability
It is worth saying again that solar tubes are easy to set up. For those who are capable around the house, or if you’re feeling adventurous, a DIY solar tube kit can be purchased for less than $300, further lowering the price.
In spite of this, even if you don’t want to handle the installation yourself, because they are so easy to install compared to skylights, it won’t cost you a fortune or take several weeks to install one.
Maintenance
You’ll have to clean your skylights fairly often due to the accumulation of dust, debris or waste materials. Also, look for energy star rating products as they provide the standard accreditation for most solar tubes
It comes with many solar tube kits like a condensation release is another convenient feature found on many solar tubes; this is particularly helpful in humid climates, thereby reducing maintenance requirements.
Aesthetic
If you are using solar tube lights, you have to sacrifice aesthetics for convenience. Sorry to disappoint you, but you will not have an attractive view through the solar tube.
Heat
The light provided by solar tubes may bring a little heat into the house, but the tubes do not trap heat nor do they heat the house.
Advantages of Solar Tubes
Brings More Natural light Inside Your Home
It brings more natural light inside the home. As the sun shines in the tube, it creates a direct beam of light that illuminates a specific area inside your home. This means that you can place a Solar Tube in an area that is normally hard to natural solar light, such as a stairwell or a back hallway.
Natural Nourishment
Solar tubes are an amazing, efficient way to provide a healthy amount of Vitamin D in your body and in your skin. UV light from the sun works in our bodies to produce Vitamin D, which helps calcium absorb-ability which promotes bone health and protects against some cancers.
There’s a lot of people in this world who don’t receive enough sunlight or access to it, so let solar tubes be part of your life and reap all that sunshine has to offer.
Saves a Lot of Energy
Conserves a lot of energy in summer by reducing the need for lights. It is most evident in rooms that have no windows, but still need to be lit up.
There are also less lights turned on during the day because more of the natural light from outside is able to come inside.
Environmentally Beneficial
Statistics show that in America alone, 20% of our electricity production is consumed by lighting homes. In the U.S., if we could cut lighting electrical use by 50%, it would be equivalent to shutting down 10 coal-fired plants.
Multitude Uses
Solar tube is designed to be used in commercial or residential places. So, it can be used to cut down operating costs.
Provides Even Illumination
It also provides enough illumination for living space and helps you to save energy, as it uses natural light to provide its lighting needs.
Adds Value to House
Solar light tubes add to the value of your house. It can be a fact when you decide to flip your house.
Efficient Solution
Solar tubes are highly energy efficient. They use sunlight during the day and they provide bright, non-glare light during the evening hours.
FAQ:
How Long Do Solar Tubes Last?
It’s hard to predict exactly how long solar tubes will last. Depending on the type of tube you install, the wattage of the tube, and where you live, each set-up can be different. However, in the best-case scenario, they may endure for up to 25 years.
How Many Lumens Does a Solar Tube Produce?
A solar tube will produce between 5,000 and 10,000 lumens.
What are the Drawbacks to Solar Tube Lighting?
One of the main drawbacks is that Solar tube may not be suitable for every house. To install a solar tube, you need a roof slope between 15-60 degrees.
Also, They provide illumination only in one direction, meaning they will only illuminate surfaces within a 180-degree radius from the actual lighting source.
Other main drawbacks are design limitations, thermal leakage, Limited noise isolations, etc.
Conclusion:
Solar Tube Lighting is a great way to add some natural lighting into your home or office. Whether you want a light that casts a wide beam or something more directional, the best solar tube lighting is an excellent choice. They are great for giving off a natural light that makes your area look brighter and more inviting.
We hope you have found our article full of useful information which will help you make an informed decision on purchasing solar tube lighting.
Installing a premium quality solar tube can effectively light up a location in my home without spending extravagantly. These products are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and require little to no maintenance.
Thanks. 🙂