Credit: Solatube International
Are Solar Tubes Worth It?
The short answer to this question is that solar tubes are definitely worth it! Solar tubes are a great way to save money on your energy bill, and they’re also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Solar tubes are a relatively new technology, and they’re not without their drawbacks. However, the pros far outweigh the cons, and solar tubes are an investment that will pay off in the long run.
Here are some of the key benefits of solar tubes:
1. Solar tubes can save you money on your energy bill.
2. Solar tubes can help reduce your carbon footprint.
3. Solar tubes have improved technology, so you’ll be ahead of the curve if you invest in them now.
4. Solar tubes are easy to install, and they don’t require any major changes to your home’s infrastructure.
5. Solar tubes provide natural light, so you can say goodbye to those harsh fluorescent lights!
5 Best Solar Tube Companies in North America
Solar Tube Lighting is a great way to bring natural light into even the darkest corners of a home. Solar tubular skylights are an energy-efficient lighting solution to brighten up dark rooms, garage, and even commercial settings. With growing awareness of sustainable building options in North America, solar tube companies are offering a range of tubular skylights with an extensive range of features.
Many brands specialize in the convenience of installation, advanced optics technology, lifetime warranty protection, and the passive solar heat generation capabilities of the skylight. When choosing the right skylight manufacturer for any project, it can be helpful to read reviews, ask questions, and seek out the industry leadership of the best solar tubular skylight companies. To make finding the best solar tubular skylight companies easier, we’ve narrowed down the top five companies leading the industry.
1. Solatube
Solatube is a well-known brand amongst solar tubular skylight companies, having been around since the early 1990s. With Solatube’s variety of premium skylight products, residential and commercial customers can effectively reduce vibrancy and energy consumption. Solatube offers both diffusers and lens technology for maximum light output.
Furthermore, its advanced optics system guarantees wider spaces with less shadows for optimal lighting. Solatube offers a number of services, including free visual analysis, free home installation, and financing through the company’s Energy Smart Program. Lastly, it offers upgrades such as Solar Night Vision, Smart Light Technology, and Verdiani Architectural diffusers.
Benefits:
• Innovative optics for maximum light output
• Advanced light diffusion
• Variety of services available
Pros:
• Customer financing for select models
• 25-year warranty
• Installation services
Cons:
• More expensive than other brands
2. ODL
ODL is a premier supplier of skylight tubes. This Ohio-based company is rapidly gaining traction in the sustainable building products industry with its wide array of tubular lights that save up to 70% in electric bills. ODL’s products are designed to last with low upkeep and efficient power use and they also come with a 10-year warranty.
ODL lights are most appreciated for their passive solar heating capabilities, which can reduce energy costs further. Not only this, but ODL also offers free installation and guide plans for the Do-it-yourself job. Some of the most popular products are Dome-Away with Active Ventilation, Emergency Escape Kits, Radiant and Radiant Plus with Acoustic Reduction, and Barefoot Cost-Cutting Solar Energy.
Benefits:
• Passive solar heating capabilities
• Roof penetration up to 25 degrees
• Emergency exit kits
Pros:
• 10-year warranty
• Free installation guides
• Free professional installation
Cons:
• Limited product range
• Not as aesthetically pleasing as other brands