ENERGY-SAVING DAYLIGHT For Dark Spaces

Shows benefits of collimating tubular skylight. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There's light at the end of the utility bill tunnel, thanks to an easy-to-install skylight that not only brings light to dark spaces but also helps cut energy costs. That saving is not insignificant, as Americans spend 20 percent of their electricity bills on lighting their home.

Called tubular skylights, they are ideal for situations where there just is not enough light and the homeowner doesn't want to install a more traditional lighting system, explains a spokesman for ODL, the Michigan company that makes the skylights. They're perfect for bathrooms, hallways, closets, laundry rooms and just about any room in the house.

Easy To Install

In addition to being Energy-Star qualified, the skylight is also easy for homeowners and contractors to install. A new two-piece installation kit makes installing the skylight simple because the bottom adjustable tube overlaps the top adjustable tube. Just cut a hole in the ceiling and a corresponding one on the roof. Slide in the dome flashing under the roof shingles and attach the reflective tubes. Cap them with the ceiling covering. You may download detailed instructions and watch video clips at www.odl.com/sky lights.

The skylight features a patented Solar Lens Dome, which increases light through the tube. During the full midday sun, a 10-inch tubular skylight lights up 150 square feet of space with a solar throughput equal to about three 100-watt bulbs. The 14-inch tubular skylight is designed to light up 300 square feet-an output equal to about five 100-watt bulbs.

ODL also offers a 10-inch and 14-inch Severe Weather Tubular Skylight, for areas where hail or hurricanes are common.

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