We live in a world where energy efficiency and the use of resources are of utmost importance. This is where solar tubes come in, framing a new solution to illuminate our homes without relying on the electricity grid. Essentially, these innovative devices capture sunlight from the roof and redirect it to the interior of a house or building, making them a perfect solution for dark spaces where the electricity grid doesn’t reach.
What are solar tubes and why have they gained fame?
For a relatively low cost, solar tubes are booming in popularity. They’re designed to capture sunlight from the roof and redirect it to the interior of a house or building using a tunnel. But not just any tunnel – a reflective one that’s capable of transporting natural light from outside to rooms that either don’t have windows or don’t receive electricity. These tubes are a perfect replacement for artificial lighting.
The way they work is quite simple. A reflective tunnel transports natural light from the roof to the interior of a building, making it possible to illuminate dark spaces without the need for electricity. This is especially useful for homes or businesses that don’t have access to the electricity grid or want to reduce their reliance on it.
Types of solar tubes
There are two main types of solar tubes available today:
- Rigid Solar Tubes: These tubes have a 98% reflectance rate, meaning almost all the captured light reaches the interior. They’re ideal for straight routes from the roof to the room and come with an external diffuser frame integrated into the roof.
- Flexible Solar Tubes: These tubes have a reflective coating inside to maximize lighting and are perfect for households with obstructions, such as beams or air ducts, that prevent a straight route. They also include an integrated exterior framework that acts as a diffuser.
Both types of solar tubes allow for maximum sunlight utilization, transforming dark spaces into cozy and functional areas.
Benefits of solar tubes for daily life
Solar tubes offer numerous advantages, including:
- Electricity savings: By reducing dependence on artificial lighting, electrical consumption decreases, leading to lower electricity bills.
- Easy installation: Solar tubes can be installed in just a few hours without requiring significant structural work.
- Light efficiency: The materials used in solar tubes can direct up to 98% of the light inward, making them highly efficient.
- Sustainability: Solar tubes reduce the carbon footprint by utilizing natural resources and reducing the need for electrical energy.
- Adaptability: They can be installed on inclined roofs or flat covers, making them suitable for various types of homes.
The installation process is relatively simple. It involves piercing a hole in the roof, placing a light collector, and connecting the tube to the area you want to illuminate. A diffuser inside the house then distributes the light, making it a convenient and efficient solution. Flexible models can even dodge beams and other elements without losing efficiency.
Overall, solar tubes are an excellent option for those looking to save money or reduce their environmental impact without undertaking significant construction work. They offer a sustainable and cost-effective way to illuminate homes, making them a valuable solution for daily life.
