The Best Solar Tubes for 2023

Chances are you’re searching for the best solar tubes, so you’re reading this buying guide. On the market, there are many of these lighting products. So if you’re unaware of what you’re buying including its pros and cons, you might not be satisfied with what you would end with.

For help, we’ve created a buying guide and solar light tubes reviews that will guide you in choosing and weighing your options. We do hope that you’ll be able to pick from the top picks featured here and get the most out of your tube lights. If you’re ready, let us begin.

Top 10 Solar Tube Reviews

1. Natural Light Energy Systems Tubular Skylight

Natural Light Energy Systems is a reputable name in the business, and that is thanks to its high quality and durable products that last for many years. One if its top sellers for solar tube lighting are the 10-inch tubular skylight. There is no doubt why. It is loaded with great features, which consumers appreciate about it.

I would like to note that it is a top-rated product among thousands of consumers. One of their reasons is that it’s easy and quick to install. For it, they don’t need to hire a professional installer at all, eliminating the cost of labor. You can do it yourself if you want to deal with the installation process.

In addition, the product is maintenance free and not mentioning it’s watertight. When it comes to maintenance, you don’t need to worry about anything at all because it doesn’t require it at all. More so, I can say that we can look forward to better durability because it’s watertight.

In addition, I would like to mention that it has a built-in UV protection, which works to protect fading on furniture, clothing and rugs. With that said, you don’t have to worry about this item being damaging to your stuff. Perhaps, it’s one of the most useful features to consider when shopping around for a tubular light.

More so, this item is with a unique condensation release system that can prevent the accumulation of moisture, preventing the damage to your tube lights. In this case, you can look forward to longer-lasting use.

Also, the Natural Light Energy Systems solar lighting is energy efficient. In fact, it is NFRC certified and Energy Star Qualified. With these things, you can have peace of mind that what you’re buying promotes energy savings, too.

This factor must also be looked into when checking out different tube lights on the market because it ensures that you’re buying top quality and efficient tubular lights. As it is also solar powered, the light does not add to your electric bill.

The solar tube light is also with a warranty of 25 years. It is one of the leading in the industry that you can count on.

2. Velux America Sun Tunnel Tubular Skylight

Velux America is a Danish company that is one of the top-rated in the solar lighting industry. In fact, they are even considered the most popular for their products and their quality of service.

As such, their sun tunnel tubular skylight is one of those popular products. Like all skylights, it offers a practical, cost-efficient and easy way to light up your rooms. It comes in two variations, with their difference pertaining to their tubing. The first type is the focus of this review.

The first one has flexible tubing. As such, it is preferable to use this especially when there are obstacles on the place where you want it to install. It’s also easier and faster to install due to the flexible tube.

The second one has rigid tubing and is perfect for clear and free installation spaces. However, you can still adjust it a little bit but not like the way you can with the former.

Despite their differences, both of them are made of high-quality materials and are durable to boot. It features an acrylic dome that is made to withstand harsh weather and adverse temperatures. It also tested and certified by the pertinent authorities such as Energy Star.

The Velux America sun tunnel tubular skylight has a length of 14 inches and comes with a ceiling ring and diffuser. As stated above, its tube is flexible and thus, can be adjusted to fit any of your needs. Because of its construction, it is recommended for asphalt, shingle or “shake” type roofs.

Moreover, because of the flexibility of tube, they are also the easiest to install. In fact, you can install it in only 2 hours.

In terms of design, the Velux America flexible sun tunnel adopts an unobtrusive design. Its low-profile flashing makes it easy to blend to your roofs.

The Velux America flexible sun tunnel also comes with a 20-year warranty. In case of damages and defects, you can always call customer support and they will be happy to assist you.

3. Natural Light Solar Sky Light Kit

The Natural Light solar skylight kit features an acrylic dome that is designed to withstand adverse weather conditions and temperatures. It is also UV-protected and it can also block out UV rays.

Moreover, this solar skylight kit has also undergone numerous tests to certify its durability. It is hurricane-tested and approved and also ICC-ES and Energy Star certified.

The Natural Light solar skylight kit is made out of high-quality aluminum, which is designed to prevent leaks. The body is shaped slopes forward as to make it easier to install in roofs. In fact, it can be installed in flat roofs, sloped roofs, asphalt/tile/clay roofs and wood shakes. You also do not need to worry since it also comes with a 4-inch tubing.

The pipe also has a length of 13 inches and boasts 98% electivity due to its micro-silver surface. What I like about the Natural Light solar skylight kit is that it gives off a light output equivalent to 500 watts. Due to the prismatic diffuser, the light is spread out evenly, ensuring you that the whole room is illuminated and giving you a soft, white glow. Because of this, it can illuminate up to 300 square feet.

In terms of design, the Natural Light solar skylight kit is also stylish. The roof flashing comes in three colors as seen in their site: powder-coated black, unpainted aluminum, and bronze. It also has a low-profile design that makes it easy to blend into the roof of your home.

There are also different varieties of the Natural Light solar skylight kit. You can choose diameters ranging from 10 inches to 21 inches and light outputs from 300 watts to 1,450 watts.

Another thing I like about the Natural Light solar skylight kit is that it is easy to install. In fact, you just need to spare about 2 hours and then after that, you’re done.

The Natural Light solar skylight kit also comes with a 25-year warranty. In case of defects and damages, you can always replace the light.

4. Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular Skylight

If you are someone planning to do a makeover for your rooms, try to venture on something like Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular Skylight. Know more about its advantage as well as its disadvantage below.

The Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular Skylight is a kind of thrift lighting source that can be installed on your rooftop and connected down in any part of your house.

When I read the product description, I appreciate that it purely gains energy from the sun so all that you have to pay is the mere item and save you electricity bills in the end.

It’s understandable if you are a little worried about the installation since it may sound like punching a hole on your roof. Don’t worry because Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular Skylight requires no drastic overhaul when you assemble it.

Based on its specs, it can be installed in as fast as 2 hours. Plus it takes only a little space and a bit of systematic set-up so you can reap its long-term benefits.

Aside from that, I think that the light tubes for houses will provide a high value yet integrated look for your roof structure because of its low profile flashing feature. It is designed for Shingle/Shake Roofs with measurement of 15 to 60 degree.

I like to point-out further that this item is rated with Energy Star. That just means that it has gain an acknowledgment for its high efficiency.

It is not surprising at all when it got that recognition since Velux Sun Tunnel Tubular Skylight has a 99.99% silver reflective layer which results to a 98% total reflectance. Therefore, it can be reliable source of illumination in any dark rooms in residential or business office.

Experts also claimed that one of the wonderful benefits of having Tube Skylight inside your space is therapeutic. Natural sunlight helps to uplift the mood, lessen depression triggers and healthy for the body.

Try this item, and if ever it fails you, Velux offers a 20-year tunnel warranty.

5. Natural Light Tubular Skylight Kit

Another Skylight Kit that can add good vibes at your household or business area is introduced by the well-reputed Natural Light. Check out here its strong and weak features.

One of the top selling points of this Natural Light Tubular Skylight Kit is definitely the wide illumination that it can spread in your preferred spot at home.

Based on its product description, a single piece of this tube can cover-up a 300 square feet area that is equivalent to 500 watts. Just imagine how good favor is that especially if you are someone who always desired thrift electricity consumption. You can now enjoy sufficient lights inside your home without worrying about electricity bill hike.

I appreciate also that Natural Light Tubular Skylight Kit performs by using natural sunlight. That is a great contribution to our nature, as it releases no air pollution and toxins.

As an additional fact, this item is graded with Energy Star Qualified that means it may also qualify from tax credits. Aside from that, it is also easy to assemble so you don’t need to spend your whole day just to make it work.

What got me more impressed about this Natural Light Tubular Skylight Kit is that they offer 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. Such kind of warranty is unusual even to other brands.

Further, you will be amazed that this item is really well built. Natural Light ensures that their product is tried and tested. It is made of Acrylic Dome so it is strong against impacts. No worries also during bad weather conditions because it is hurricane tested and approved.

If you look closer to the item, you can easily notice that it has a 13 flat Aluminum White Diffuser. This part is made of aluminum so it is sturdy enough to withstand various weather climate pressures.

The Natural Light Tubular Skylight Kit also adds to the value and aesthetics of any household or business areas. This one looks modern yet simple.

Above all what is already mentioned, I like that the natural light that is transmitted through this device can actually brighten up your mood and replenish your energy.

6. Velux Tmr0140000 Rigid Pitch Flashing Sun Tunnel

VELUX has been a staple name among property owners and homeowners who have been considering solar energy products for reasons like energy efficiency and savings. Those who want to contribute in making a better earth are also choosing solar tube lights like items from this brand.

One of these is the Velux Tmr0140000, which is a top-rated pitch-flashing sun tunnel, offering reliable lighting to thousands of households worldwide. It is with solid features including a sleek size of 14-3/4″L X 38″H and a great design of an Acrylic Dome.

By choosing the Tmr0140000, you can look forward to many years of use because it is made of durable component meant for outdoor applications. With it, you will be able to illuminate a room or a part of your home but without spending additional in your energy bills in the process.

With the Tmr0140000, you can also take advantage of its complete accessories for installation. This kit includes a ceiling ring, a diffuser, a tunnel, shake/shingle roof flashing and two adjustable elbows.

When shopping around for a good tube skylight, you must also want to check for its ease of installation. You will not be disappointed for choosing this item, which offers quick setting up. Just choose a spot to install and get it there easily. But if you need to illuminate a larger space, you might have to choose at least one of these tube lights.

More so, I liked that the item is affordable, allowing you to get quality lighting without spending much money in the process. So if you want to ensure that you will be able to get both quality and affordability, you can consider the Velux Tmr0140000.

7. Natural Light 10 Inch Tubular Skylight Kit

Do you have a flat roof and thinking of installing a skylight? If so, you might want to check out the Natural Light skylight kit. This item is a top-rated and quality tube light for many users who want to start using clean energy products for their homes.

The Natural Light 10-Inch Tubular Skylight Kit is one of the best options for a solar lighting for roofs for those who want a maintenance free tunnel light. Once installed, you don’t need to do anything else at all.

This tubular light is designed and constructed for flat roofs, which are pretty common. Plus, you don’t need to worry about difficult installation because this one is a breeze to set up. With it, you don’t need to hire someone to do the installation, too, because you can do it yourself.

In addition, I would like to note that this item is with 25 years warranty, giving you added peace of mind that you can get assistance if something goes wrong with your tube light.

The long warranty is one of the leaders in the industry. I also believe that manufacturers who put a long warranty on their products trust those. So in this case, it is obvious that the manufacturer of the tube light stands behind their tube light.

Natural Light manufactures some of the top-rated solar tubes on the market. They sell different tube lights for different types of roofs that also include pitched angle roofs in addition to flat roofs.

This model also includes four feet of tubing along with a prismatic diffuser. If you need additional tubing, you can also buy it separately. In addition, the item can illuminate up to 150 feet for an output of 300W as equivalent.

More so, this item is hurricane-tested to last for all types of weathers as well as passes the Florida code requirements.

8. Radiant Skylight US Sunlight Solar Tube 14

With the new technology, you can now enjoy natural light from the sun even if you are relaxing inside your home. That is made possible through the innovative Radiant Skylight Tube by US Sunlight. If you seem to be interested, you have to learn its pros and cons.

Gone are the days that residential and even commercial establishments are solely dependent to light bulbs or lamps that are electricity driven. People are now shifting to a more Eco-friendly and cost saving technology like one from US Sunlight.

The Radiant Skylight US Sunlight Solar Tube is solar powered. Therefore, it needs no complicated wiring to make electricity flow. It only harvest sunlight and convert it to power so you can expect 100% free electricity from it.

I’m also delighted that solar powered device doesn’t emit hazardous pollution to the environment since it uses renewable energy. Hence, our nature is safe and happy while you enjoy the benefits of Radiant Skylight US Sunlight Solar Tube.

If ever you wonder how this lighting device works, it is usually mounted at the rooftop. There is a tube-like part that enables natural light to flow down the house ceiling through a tube channel.

According to the product prescription, Radiant Skylight US Sunlight Solar Tube can transmit at least 91% of light. It’s quite impressive as the light travels from the lens and up to any desired area inside your house. Good thing here is that its solar tube is flexible and it can reach up to 6 feet distance.

Another factor that I consider about this item is its durability. Since the lens act as the front liner at the top of the roof, US Sunlight made sure that it is tough enough to withstand weather conditions. It is built by an acrylic that protects the lens from hail. It also has a load capacity of 264lb live.

Its installation process is also simple. There is no need to do major alteration at the structure of your home. As soon as installation is done, you can even expect more that it is maintenance-free.

9. ODL EZ14SCANH 14″ Tubular Skylight

I liked solar products and so are tubular skylights because they’re energy saving and natural light sources. They don’t need maintenance and give long years of service. There is also no doubt that these lights are eco-friendly.

A good pick in the category is the ODL tube light, which is reliable and efficient in providing you with an optimal performance. This product is ideal for asphalt roofs, which are pretty common for many home designs.

I would like to mention that the tubular skylight is also strong and durable. It is designed and made to last a longer time than other products in the category can. It is also worth noting that this item is designed and made with UV protected acrylic dome, adding to its durability. So if you’re shopping around for a tubular skylight that will last a long time, you might want to check out the ODL skylight for its patented optics, too.

It is also worth noting that the item is with a compact size of 14in.L x 14in.W x 48in.H. It might be something that you can consider if you want a sleek tubular light.

The 48-inches tubing light can also deliver natural light into your home. With it, you don’t have to think about additional spending on utility bills. So if you want to save money while choosing clean energy tube lights, you might want to check out the ODL.

The kit can also illuminate up to 300 square feet of your room, bringing in more light while also not consuming additional energy. More so, this product is Energy Star qualified and requires no batteries.

10. ODL Tubular Skylight Kit

When reading solar tube lighting reviews, you should not miss this ODL kit. Tubular lights direct solar energy into a reflective tube and creates a natural diffused glow in your home. Because of this, they are convenient and practical as well as energy-efficient. They can definitely fix your lighting problem and can even help you save on your electrical bills.

One of such light is the ODL Tubular Skylight Kit. This product boasts a composite construction that is made to withstand adverse elements. This is also combined with patented optics to reduce the glare. Moreover, the tubular skylight also comes with a strong, UV-protected dome.

What I like about the ODL Tubular Skylight Kit is that it has a long tube. In fact, it has a tube of 48 inches. As a rule of thumb, a longer tube is great insofar as the height of the roof is concerned. A long tube means it can easily accommodate and fit into the roof, no matter the design and length.

While the ODL Tubular Skylight Kit is great for roofs, it is highly preferable for asphalt roofs.

Aside from its length, the tubing is also flexible and it also comes with adjustable elbows. Thus, the ODL Tubular Skylight Kit can offer a wide range of illumination. In fact, the manufacturer claims it produces brightness similar to 3 100-watt bulbs, or 3,750 lumens. With this, it can light up to 300 square feet.

I also like how the ODL Tubular Skylight Kit is complete with everything. Aside from the basics, it also has a lens diffuser, leak-proof flashing as well as a trim ring.

Because of its design, the ODL Tubular Skylight Kit is also easy to install. The kit already has you covered, as it is complete with the necessary screws and other essentials. There is no need to paint, frame or put a drywall to install the device.

The ODL Tubular Skylight Kit also has no wires nor does it require electricity as it gets its energy from the sun. Plus, it is also easy to maintain. You just need to occasionally wipe the glass clean and check it once in a while and you’re good to go.

Why You Should Trust Us

If you’re reading a solar tube review, you should trust our team at CleanEnergySummit.org! We didn’t just create a review for the sake of reviewing a product but made sure that you’ll be able to get a clear idea on the right product to buy later.

Before conducting a review, we have figured out the things to look for when buying a solar tube light. In this manner, we’ll be able to determine how to choose such a product. And with this idea, we can also determine top-ranking products in the category that possess those qualities.

A reason is that we recognize that no one size fits all in terms of finding the right solar tube lightings. In this case, we believe that weighing our options well based on each product’s pros, cons and special qualities that make them a standout for our needs and preferences.

With this method of discussing the things to look for and then making a research and reviewing each solar tube light, we can make a thorough review to help you pick your solar tube lighting.

Choosing to trust us, you can be certain that you’re with like-minded people who are enthusiastic about solar energy and clean energy products. And using our reviews, we do hope that you will be able to find the right tube lighting that suits your needs.

What Is A Solar Tube And Who This Is For

Solar tubes are called light tubes, such as large solar tube, but some also call them tubular skylight, daylight pipes, sun tunnels and, sun scopes. This system is called Tubular Day lighting Devices (TDDs).

These are high-performing devices that provide natural sun light to interiors without increasing your electricity bills using patented optical technologies.

This device is a 10-inch tube that illuminates 150 square foot and can provide light of approximately equivalent to 300 watts. Often, its diameter is generally from 10 up to 22 inches, which are ideal to a typical home’s ceiling.

Some of the available ones can illuminate up to 300 square feet. Such is a great alternative for traditional light. They can brighten your home free!

Though skylights can provide up to thrice the direct sunlight than regular windows, solar tubes are better as it captures and diffuse light. It is said also that choosing solar tube over the other is because it does not require reframing and drywalling, as well as tunneling and repainting.

Another advantage of this product over the skylight is that it does not require days to be installed but only an estimated two-hour period. With the lesser time required for installation, it would cause lesser mess and disruption. As to its cost, solar tube is more efficient while providing light with lesser energy.

This device is ideal for installation to any home, as it will provide light even in the darkest area. It can also be used in offices as it may reduce electric bills. As these are hurricane tested, it is advised to install in areas that are deprived with natural sunlight like in Oregon and South Washington, among others.

Solar tube lights are for people that want to help in conserving the environment. After all, it does not cause emissions. Its light is from the sun, so there is no need to burn fossil fuel in the process.

Also, tube lights are for those that want added illumination or backup illumination to their homes. During a blackout or power outage, they can still expect day lighting into their rooms, no interruptions.

Such lights are also for those who want to save energy. These tunnel lights do not consume electricity, so they’re power saving and do not add to the budget.

If you would like to look forward to these benefits, you might want to check out lighting tubes. They offer plenty of advantages without added spending. Be sure to compare your options well and choose the right solar light tubes that work for you today!

How Does It Work

Basically, solar tubes or tubular skylights work by installing in ceiling and roof a tubular column to penetrate piping daylight into interior spaces. It can be installed without causing any changes or damages to your home’s structure because it does not require drywalling, painting and reframing. It will only take two to four hours to install, an easy, fast and clean procedure.

With a rooftop dome, it captures light and diffuses to the interior with its reflective tube thereby providing natural sunlight all year round.

Tubular Daylighting Devices (TDDs) are designed to maximize daylight. Low-angle sunrays in late afternoon and in the morning are captured, as well as, in winter months by the aid of a light tracker reflector. On the contrary, it captures high-angle sunrays during middle of the day.

While it redirects low-angle sunrays, it also increases light input and delivers unsurpassed performance throughout the year. Its daylight-capturing dome lens that is called Raybender Technology redirects low-angle sunrays rejects overpowering sunlight at mid-day and diffuses consistent Daylighting all day long. The captured sunlight then will be transferred through a tube that will deliver natural sun light to any part of the building, be it in houses or offices.

This skylight alternative for sunlight channeling to the innermost part of a house provides artificial lighting even in the absence of the sun. With the sunrays entering in its metallic tube from your roof, natural light then be channeled through the tube by a continuous mirror, which is a metal.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Tubes

In addition to the different solar tube sizes, you might also be interested to know the different types of solar tubes. To tell you, the only difference is their design and kind of roof it is designed.

For example, you should know about the limitations where to locate or place a light tube. You must check the space in the attic to find out if a space for a straight run is available.

Now, if there’s an obstruction, a flexible tubing or elbow may be able to get around this issue. But then, it can be easier to install a tube in a vaulted ceiling as only one foot or more of tubing may be needed.

Nevertheless, when picking the design and type of solar tube light, you must check certain things like the roof slope. There are kits available with flashing, allowing for installing on slopes up to 60 degrees.

On the other hand, choosing the type will also be based on the roofing material. For example, a few types are only ideal for roofing material like asphalt shingles, wood shingles or shakes. There are also flashing adapters for tile roofs or metal roofs.

Nevertheless, the type of tube light to buy can depend on certain factors including the slope or material of your roof. So when it comes to selection, you should also look into these things to ensure that the type of tube light you’re buying is suitable for your roof.

We also have a list of top-tier solar attic fan for your reference. Moreover, take a look at our top-tier solar water pump if you like.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Tubes

TDDs are innovative and have modern approach in providing daylight, as these do not require reframing. It’s easy installation process that usually takes a maximum of four hours do not require too many changes in the arrangements in your interior while bringing stylish appearance without requiring thorough maintenance. It is also designed to be a leak, damage and impact-proof making it also a durable material.

Having this instrument will provide almost a natural daylight to any part of your room without prejudicing your health as it will protect you from the direct exposure to sunlight while enjoying almost same brightness as staying outside the building.

While staying inside, you can still receive benefits of staying under the sun such as, but not limited to boost concentration and energy levels. Because it collects and diffuses sunlight, having this equipment at home will surely result to lower electricity bill.

It really is a cost-efficient technology, which anyone can enjoy at home or even for a business, purpose as it can bring artificial light that is almost same with the natural sunlight to any part of an establishment. It’s easy, fast and clean installation procedure and low maintenance feature also require lower budget.

This material helps minimize temperature inside the building. It prevents loss of either heating or cooling energy because it preserves insulation. Therefore, your body can easily adopt the temperature inside the building, regardless of the weather condition from the outside.

With this instrument, you may switch off your lights at daytime. You will never worry about forgetting to turn-off the lights upon leaving. By reducing your electricity consumption, you can help in greening and preserving the earth because it will reduce the pollution.

With the advantages stated, it will surely add value to your property.

However, having this device installed in your ceiling, you will not be able to enjoying the direct view to the sky because you cannot open its sealed design solar tubes. Although it will require you almost no maintenance, it will eventually be damaged due to extreme temperatures.

Also, be sure to check your roofing or ceiling requirements when buying a solar tube because if this device is not fitted well, it will cause leak and will result to difficulty in reinstallation of the said material.

Summing up,

Pros

• Easy to install and durable
• Protection from direct exposure to sunlight while enjoying its benefits
• Minimizes temperature
• Cost-efficient and low maintenance
• Eco-friendly

Cons

• No direct view of the sky
• Will cause damages if not fitted well

How We Picked And Tested

Choosing a solar tube light is also like selecting other solar energy products. You must compare and weigh your options well based on several factors that we’re going to discuss in the following.

Location

Where do you plan to put the tube lighting? A few popular places include walk-in closets, stairways, hallways, kitchens, laundry rooms and bathrooms, to name some.

Nonetheless, think of the location of the sola tube before buying one to ensure that you’re getting the right one. For example, for a large space, you might want to select that can illuminate up to 300 square feet.

Speaking of location, you should consider the room where you want to install the skylight. Make sure that you measure the room and that you find the current location of the light fitting in that room.

Also, do you need a brighter illumination like for a kitchen? On the other hand, is just average light amount okay like in a laundry room?

Illumination level

In addition to the above things to look into, you must also check out different tube lighting and amount they can illuminate.

For example, some of these are ideal for lighting bathrooms and hallways and can cover between 150 and 200 square feet. On the other hand, there are those designed for a larger space like living areas or an open plan kitchen and can cover up to 300 square feet.

Tubing length

Take note that the length of the tubing directly influences the light’s brightness. So if you’re k looking to achieve a brighter illumination, you should choose a more powerful solar tube light.

Where to place the light collection dome

When shopping around for good tube lighting, you should also think about the light collection dome location in your roof. It matters because it can help establishing the amount of sunlight that can enter and be collected in the tube.

Determining it, you’ll be able to envision the brightness of the light source in the room. With the correct placement, you’ll be able to get more out of your solatube.

Do you want to place it in the same area with your electric light fitting?

In addition to the location, it matters to think about where you want to place the skylight like if it should be in the same place as your current light fittings.

To provide an ample amount of light in a room, this lighting is commonly installed in the center or middle of a room.

Warranty

It is not the same for all manufacturers, so it is important that you check and compare them well. The longer the warranty the better because it can ensure peace of mind that help is available if something goes wrong with your tube lighting.

Just like those we have featured earlier, they are with a good warranty, so they’re offering peace of mind in your purchase. Nevertheless, I suggest that you look into it when trying to compare the different solar lights available.

Price

Before browsing different tube brands and lights, you should determine how much you’re willing to spend. By doing so, you will be able to save time because you don’t need to check those out of your budget plan.

But then, you must also think about quality over a cheap price. An affordable price might not be a good basis if the item easily breaks or become damaged. It will be nice to check and read reviews to find out what customers are saying regarding a product. From there, you can narrow down your choices not only on the price but also on the function and features of a certain tube light.

Design

You can find a wide range of designs of these solar lights, which are available in many online marketplaces and DIY stores. Depending on your roof type and roofing material, for example, you can select a design that is appropriate for your needs. For example, there are those that fit only flat roofs while others are designed for asphalt shingle type pitched roofs.

Consider these things when finding your ideal solar tube lighting so that you can make a better decision and be satisfied with your purchase.

Take some time to do your homework, read reviews and use our reviews for reference on top brands and models of solar lights. Again, factor in the location where you want to install it and illumination amount you need for that space/area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do solar tubes cost?

Professionally-installed light tubes for roof sections can cost homeowners about $750 for each tube. If you’re confident with DIY projects, consider buying sun tubes for roof systems, which cost $300 on average. The Velux TMF 014 0000 Sun Tunnel Skylights are a good example for budget-conscious people.

On the other hand, homeowners who want solar tube skylights on their rooftops should be ready with $1,500 to $2,500 apiece. The price varies according to the skylight’s dimensions and installation difficulty.

Do solar tubes make rooms hot?

No, a solar tube light kit does not make the room hot, as it has a small opening for sunlight to pass through and illuminate a room. This minimizes heat radiation from the solar tube’s diffuser, allowing occupants to feel relatively cool even though it is scorching hot outside. One can always use solar tube blackout covers if the heat turns uncomfortable.

How long does a solar tube last?

The average tubular skylight can last a decade or two, depending on proper maintenance and care. A few higher-priced models with more advanced technologies might last more than half a century.

How do I get rid of bugs in my solar tube?

You can get rid of bugs in the solar tube by following the manufacturer’s disassembly instructions. This usually involves removing the solar tube diffuser, dome, flashing, ceiling ring, and tube and laying them out on a clean, dry surface.

After disassembling, use warm, soapy water and a lint-free cloth to remove bugs and other particles from the solar tube. Rinse with clean water and allow the components to air dry.

Although removing bugs in a solar tube is easy, these contaminants should not be there in the first place. All things considered, solar tubes are a closed system, be it a conventional sun tube or a solar tube with electric light. Dirt and bugs can’t get through the protective exterior acrylic dome.

The only way bugs and particles can enter the solar tube is through cracks, gaps, or holes in the system secondary to a faulty installation or cylinder deterioration. Locating and patching these gaps are as vital as removing the bugs in the solar tube. Failure to do so will still invite insects and debris into the solar tube, necessitating periodic cleaning.

Can I install a sun tube on a flat roof?

In most cases, no—you cannot install a sun tube on a flat roof. These natural lighting fixtures are more suitable for roof systems with a 15- to 60-degree slope. This means A-frame and steep-angled ceilings aren’t suitable for sun tubes either.

However, some manufacturers offer solar tube flat roof models, allowing homeowners to enjoy free interior lighting. One example is the Natural Light Solar Sky Light Kit we reviewed above.

Which is better, solar tube or skylight?

Choosing between solar tube vs skylight depends on your needs or priorities. Solar tubes are more affordable, making them excellent options for homeowners on a tight budget. A single sun cylinder can cost around $750 when installed professionally and $3oo for DIY. Meanwhile, families can spend at least $1,500 on a skylight project.

Solar tubes are perfect for homes that only want to illuminate a small living space. Moreover, installation is more straightforward because solar tubes do not require extensive home modification. One can also use flexible types of solar tubes to direct sunlight around obstacles, ensuring adequate illumination.

Solar tubes also require less maintenance. The only cleaning necessary is when birds poop accumulates on the acrylic dome. It also minimizes heat gains, allowing the air conditioning unit to operate optimally during the summer. Heating costs are also lower in the winter because solar tubes mitigate heat losses from the interior.

However, a skylight is a better solution if you have a roof with a less than 15-degree or more than 60-degree slope. Skylights also offer a better view of the external environment.

What are the most trusted solar tube brands?

When reading sun tube reviews, you might be looking for information regarding the top brands in the industry. Some of them include Natural Light Energy Systems, ODL and Velux America, among other others we have featured earlier.

Nevertheless, you might also want to weigh your options based on the brands of sun tube lights. With top brands, you can be certain that you’re buying from companies committed to delivering high quality items that will satisfy you.

Solatube vs Skylight: what’s the difference?

Solar tubes are light tubes and sometimes called sun tunnels. These tubular versions of skylights are made of polycarbonate or acrylic one done installed on the roof. It works by catching sunlight that is then reflected down on a flexible or rigid metal sheet tube before it shines in the diffusing lens located in the ceiling of your room. Sizes can be 10 inches, 14 inches and even larger ones.

On the other hand, a skylight is a polycarbonate, acrylic or glass set of windows installed into a home’s roof. It is with a frame and is connected to your roof. It is available in sizes like 12 inches x 12 inches squares or even a large rectangular shaped area.

What is the warranty?

When reading a skylight tube review, you might also be interested to know about the warranty available for such products.

Why do you need to check it? You must be able to compare to ensure that you will be able to get help or assistance when something goes wrong with your lighting. At the very least, you might want to get one that has many years of warranty. I found products coming with 25 years of warranty.

What are the most trusted places to buy?

The widest selection of solar tube manufacturers are on Amazon, the largest online marketplace for top quality clean energy products like tube lights and skylights. Using it, you will be able to compare more products in just one place.

So while you can find some tube lighting solutions in other places online and offline, Amazon is still the chosen venue for homeowners who want to get the top-tier deals at affordable prices.

How to install and use?

There is no one size fits all when it comes to installing tube lights because instructions can vary from one manufacturer to another. Also, there are various designs that include those for flat roofs and those for asphalt shingle type pitched roofs.

For this reason, it’s more advisable that you choose the right light according to the roof you have and follow the specific instruction that comes with it.

If you’re buying Sola Tube, you might also want to look for a solar tube before and after installation for an idea.

How to care & maintain?

The best solar tubes, for instance, requires no maintenance at all. Generally, it is watertight and hurricane-tested, so it can deal with all types of weathers and seasons. Thus, it doesn’t need any up keeping at all. Once installed, it’s good to go and doesn’t need maintenance.

Conclusion

Finding the best solar tubes, you will find more satisfaction in your purchase. For this reason, it pays off to consider the things that you should look for when comparing your options. We do hope that you can decide better by using the reviews we have featured earlier. These products are from top brands in the industry, and they are with topnotch features that you will love.

With solar tubes, you will be able to illuminate an area like a room in your home but without spending additional in your electric bills. You’ll also take advantage of free power forever and items that require no maintenance. These lights also do not add pollution to the environment because they’re solar-powered.

Compare your options and find the right solar tubes today!

Eddie B. Robinson

Hi, I am Eddie, Cleanenergysummit’s content editor. It’s so much joy to work alongside Justin, as the idea of providing knowledge about using clean energy excites us.

I’ve been working to address any concerns or questions you may have as you transition to using solar electricity to power your home. Tune in to hear our advice and suggestions on anything clean energy. Welcome!