Shedding Light on Solar Powered Skylights: What You Need to Know

Are you looking for an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to brighten up your space? Perhaps you want to bring more natural light into your home without increasing your energy consumption? Solar powered skylights offer a sustainable solution by utilising renewable energy instead of relying solely on electricity to illuminate your living space.



If you're interested in learning more about how solar skylights can transform your home, you're in the right place. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about these innovative lighting solutions, including how they work, their advantages, and the factors to consider when choosing one for your home.

What are Solar-Powered Skylights?

Solar skylights are innovative lighting fixtures designed to bring natural sunlight into interior spaces while utilising solar energy. These skylights primarily get power from a solar panel or solar-powered LED lights for artificial lighting. In addition, their lighting panels integrate Ambient Light Technology (ALT) to increase illumination in dimmer areas of your home.



Solar skylights come in various designs and configurations to suit different architectural styles and homeowner preferences. They can be fixed or vented, and some models may include features such as rain sensor, remote control, and integrated blinds or shades for privacy and light control.

How does a Solar-Powered Skylight work?

A solar skylight basically incorporates solar technology to function. Instead of relying on electrical wiring or batteries, this type of skylight uses a solar panel to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. The generated electricity will then be stored in batteries or used immediately to power the skylight's operation, such as opening and closing mechanisms for venting skylights or powering built-in lighting systems.



Unlike traditional skylights that rely solely on the fixed skylight opening to brighten a room, solar skylights can be operated remotely or automatically using sensors, timers and a remote control device. These features allow homeowners to control the amount of light and ventilation entering their living spaces.

Advantages of a Solar-Powered Skylight

A solar-generated skylight can offer several advantages including:

Remote Control Operation

Many solar skylights come with remote control options, allowing users to open and close them as needed, even if they're not physically present. This is particularly convenient for hard-to-reach areas such as rooftops and high ceilings.

Natural Ventilation

Solar skylights can enhance indoor air quality by promoting natural ventilation. This not only allows you to create a more comfortable indoor environment by bringing in fresh air and reducing the buildup of pollutants and odours, but it also reduces your reliance on mechanical ventilation systems, particularly in moderate climates.

Adaptability

A solar-operated skylight can be integrated into various roof types and configurations, making them suitable for a wide range of architectural styles and building applications. With their adaptable design, these skylights can accommodate the unique needs and specifications of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings alike.

Aesthetic Appeal

The presence of a solar skylight can add a unique aesthetic to your home or building. Solar skylights come in various designs and styles, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement their interior decor and enhance a space's visual appeal.

Versatility

Solar skylights are available in various sizes, shapes, and designs to suit different styles and spaces. Whether you are looking for a sleek, modern skylight to complement a contemporary design or a more traditional option to enhance the charm of a classic space, solar roof skylights are versatile to meet your specific aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Increased Property Value

Solar skylights not only improve a home's aesthetic but it significantly promote energy efficiency and increase comfort and energy savings, which can all enhance the value of your property and attract potential buyers.

Environmental Impact

By utilising renewable solar energy, solar roof skylights help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. This not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also paves the way for eco-friendly building practices, inspiring innovation in renewable energy and promoting global sustainability.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the ultimate skylight solution for your needs.

Determine the appropriate size of the skylight based on your room's dimensions and the amount of natural lighting desired. Consider the orientation of your roof and where sunlight is most abundant throughout the day. Make sure that the combined area of skylights does not surpass 15% of your room's square footage as too much lighting can cause overheating and inconsistent temperature changes.

Energy Efficiency

Look for solar skylights with high energy efficiency ratings to minimise heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Energy-efficient models may not only help reduce heating and cooling costs but they can also contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment throughout the year.

Solar Panel System

Check whether the solar panel is efficient and reliable enough to harness ample sunlight, especially during periods of cloud cover or reduced sunlight. This helps to know whether the skylight's operations, including opening, closing, and any automation features, remain functional and dependable throughout varying weather conditions.

Remote Control and Automation

Consider whether the skylight offers remote control or automation features for opening, closing, and adjusting settings. These features not only allow for enhanced convenience and easy operation, but it also enables you to optimise energy efficiency by regulating the amount of natural lighting and ventilation entering your home throughout the day.

Rain Sensors and Leak Protection

Look for skylights equipped with rain sensors and leak protection mechanisms to automatically close the skylight during inclement weather and prevent water infiltration. These features may be managed using a remote control to safeguard your home from water damage but also extend the lifespan of your solar roof skylights by reducing exposure to moisture-related issues.

UV Protection

Choose skylights with UV-blocking coatings or glazing to protect interior furnishings and flooring from sun damage and fading. These specialised coatings or glazing can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by minimising heat transfer, thus reducing the need for excessive air conditioning during hot summer months.

Aesthetics

Consider the design and aesthetics of the skylight to make sure that it complements the architectural style of your home or building. Options like frame colour and glazing type can affect the overall appearance.

Cost and Budget

Compare prices from different manufacturers and consider the long-term savings in energy costs when investing in a solar-operated skylight. Balance the upfront cost with the expected benefits and durability of the product. This way you can choose one that aligns with your budget and sustainability goals.

How long can a solar skylight last?

The lifespan of a solar skylight can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the product, installation, maintenance, and environmental conditions. In general, a well-made solar skylight can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or more. Some manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years, and in some cases, longer warranties are available. With proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and inspections, you can prolong the lifespan of a solar skylight.

Do solar skylights require batteries for operation?

A solar skylight typically does not require batteries for operation. It is designed to harness sunlight during the day to power their functions, such as opening and closing or providing illumination, without the need for an external power source or batteries. Instead, it relies on a solar panel to capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy to operate its mechanisms. However, some models may include battery backup systems to maintain operation during periods of low sunlight or at night.

Will a solar skylight still function when it's cloudy outside?

A solar-operated skylight can still function to some extent even if it's cloudy outside. While the efficiency may be reduced compared to bright, sunny days, most solar-generated skylights are designed to capture and convert available light into energy. They typically have built-in sensors that detect ambient light levels and adjust their operation accordingly. So, even on cloudy days, there's usually enough light for them to operate, though perhaps not at their maximum capacity.

Takeaway

Solar skylights are an innovative and eco-friendly way to enhance natural lighting in your home without having to rely on traditional electricity sources. Whether you aim to reduce energy costs, minimise your carbon footprint, or simply want to enjoy the aesthetic and health benefits of natural lighting, investing on solar skylights can offer long-term benefits for both your home and the environment.



At BM Skylights, we have the ultimate skylight solution for your needs. As a local premier dealer of Solatube products, we offer a range of skylights including a wide variety of designs. Compared with the traditional skylight, our solartube skylight can add value to your home while helping reduce your energy consumption. If you're ready to transform your home with natural lighting, get in touch with us today for an obligation-free quote.