Skylights

Do you have spaces where you constantly turn on lights during the day?

Consider a skylight or solar light tube. They add natural light – brightening dark spaces and reducing the need for artificial lighting. But skylights can also enhance solar heat gain and both products can let in drafts. To ensure the best performance make sure to purchase right and install smart. Then let the sun shine in.

Look for Energy Star qualified skylights rated for the Northern Climate zone. Energy Star skylights and solar light tubes are rated by climate zone and are evaluated using whole-unit performance criteria. With whole-unit performance, not only the glass meets energy efficient standards, but all the materials from frame to design feature energy efficient components.

Energy Star skylights include:

• Double-pane glass with protective coatings to reduce heat gain and protect interior spaces from the fading affects of direct sunlight.
• Framing materials that reduce heat transfer and help insulate.
• Warm edge spacers to optimize the distance between panes and help insulate pane edges.

Pick the right location: Skylights and solar light tubes illuminate interior spaces in the daytime. Consider placement in locations where you would normally turn on the lights.

Orientation can affect the type of light you receive and solar heat gain. Skylights on north-facing roofs provide fairly constant but cool illumination. Those on east-facing roofs provide maximum light and solar heat gain in the morning. West-facing skylights provide afternoon sunlight and heat gain. South-facing skylights provide the greatest potential for desirable winter passive solar heat gain than any other location, but often allow unwanted heat gain in the summer. Also, be aware of trees, rooflines or structures outside and how they will shade your skylight or solar light tube during different seasons.

Consider size and slope. According to the Department of Energy, a skylight should never be more than 5 percent of the floor area in rooms with many windows and no more than 15 percent of the room’s floor area for spaces with few windows. The optimum slope of the skylight will maximize solar heat gain in the winter and minimize it in the summer. Also consider distance from roof to ceiling to determine if a skylight or solar light tube will work best.

Install it right. Even the best skylights and solar light tubes can be drafty if they are poorly installed or poorly insulated. To ensure quality installation, follow manufacturer instructions and review manufacturer warranty information. Some manufacturers require specific certifications for installers. Also, ask your installer for credentials and check with references and the better business bureau.

Already have light tubes or skylights? Condensation or drafts may be signs of leaks or poor insulation. Fix them and enjoy a more comfortable home.

Sources: U. S. DOE http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/windows_doors_skylights/index.cfm/mytopic=13650

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov