Solatube® Daylight Design

We are very passionate about creating a brighter tomorrow.

2011-11-19T15:55:00.000+10:00

We are ALL so fortunate to work at such an awesome company. Not only does the Global Solatube Organisation make incredible products, that anyone would be proud to own or represent; it employs an incredibly passionate and talented group of people who share common values. This group put together this video to help people understand who we are. Please take a look and pass this on to others you think would be interested in knowing about our great products and great people.

Student Performance Improved with New Energy Efficient Daylighting Technology

2011-08-14T15:59:00.000+10:00

While the Australian Government’s National Solar Schools Program (NSSP) enables schools to improve energy efficiency and decrease energy costs, by allocating some, or all, of their grant to increasing natural light in classrooms, schools can also improve academic performance by up to 18 percent, increase student concentration and decrease absenteeism at the same time.

The Solatube Daylighting Device (TDD) is an innovative natural lighting system that produces four times more light than similar products, it can dramatically reduce reliance on artificial lighting and in turn decrease energy costs. The compact, modular design of the device, combined with dimming capabilities and lighting controls make it an ideal choice for learning environments.

Tubular daylighting devices and other daylighting systems have previously been difficult to retrofit, without excessive cost or effort; however, a single Solatube daylighting device can be installed in approximately an hour, while its adjustable tubing and angle adaptors allow it to be installed around any obstructions while retaining optimal lighting performance.

By using effective daylighting strategies, in combination with lighting controls and dimmer systems, schools can reduce or eliminate the need for artificial lighting during the school day. The Solatube Daylighting System is fully controllable with dimming capabilities that allow the level of natural lighting to be adjusted on demand from 100 percent down to 2 percent to accommodate activities such as watching movies or presentations.

With most schools spending more money on energy than books and supplies, effective daylighting can significantly lower school building energy consumption, allowing the corresponding financial savings to be invested into improving educational facilities.

Almost 1400 schools across the country have already signed up for the $480 million Program, which allows primary and secondary schools around Australia to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to install solar and other renewable power systems, including solar hot water systems, energy efficient lighting, insulation and rainwater tanks. The Program replaces the Green Vouchers for Schools Program and provides schools with greater freedom to choose from a wider range of energy efficient technologies.

As a growing amount of research from around the globe points out the benefits of natural light on human health and well-being, using the NSSP to fund installation of the Solatube Daylighting System can also provide many benefits beyond improved energy efficiency and decreased energy costs. Studies undertaken in classrooms with increased natural light report benefits such as: reduced poor behaviour and health, faster test completion times, improved test scores and fewer absentee days.
Artificial light is not a substitute for natural light and can actually impact negatively on well-being. Research indicates that electric generated light can result in a low level type of sensory deprivation that leads to depression, irritability and impairment of organised thinking, while a lack of natural light can have a “jet lag” effect on students.

For more information on how Solatube Australia can help improve the classroom environment for the school your children attend contact Frank Harrington on email frankh@solatube.com.au or Michael McGrath on email michaelm@solatube.com.au. Both Frank and Michael have extensive experience developing daylight designs to improve Australian classrooms.

What exactly is a Solatube Tubular Daylight Device (TDD)?

2011-08-14T15:26:00.000+10:00

Neall Digert, Ph.D., MIES

To find our we asked Neall Digert, Vice President of Product Enterprise for Solatube International. Neall joined the Solatube family in 2000 and has a background in illumination engineering. He estimates that each year our company sells about 150,000 Solatube day-lighting units, which focus and redirect sunlight from outside through a highly reflective shaft and diffuse the light indoors.

The Solatube TDD is new kind of product. It was invented in the mid-80s for the residential market. It was originally termed a tubular skylight.

Now we are being termed a tubular day-lighting device (TDD). The reason for that is that we are not a skylight. We’re very different from a skylight, both how we operate thermally and how we operate optically, how we collect light and bring daylight into spaces.

When we talk about Solatube TDD what we’re really talking about is an optical daylight system where we’re using optics to really carefully engineer how we collect daylight. How we redirect and transport daylight. And ultimately how we use daylight into the occupied spaces. So what we’ve done is created a product that integrates into the ceiling like a light fixture, but we’re providing daylight to fully illuminate the space without the need for electric lights for the vast majority of daylight hours.

In layman’s terms, the skylight is just a piece of glass in the ceiling?

Exactly, it’s a hole in the roof that allows the light in, where as the Solatube TDD is different because we’re really shaping or we’re collecting light.

How much money do you save on your electric bill using Solatube TDD?

Well, when we talk about a commercial building it can be huge. We cut our utilities by about 23 percent and we are actually daylit for about 97 percent of the year, so our electric lights are only on about 3 percent of the year in most buildings (or rooms) that use Solatube.

So we can be talking easily tens of thousands or in large facilities it could be hundreds of thousands of dollars annually that a company is saving.

What are the negative connotations with day lighting?

That it’s highly variable. You think of daylight and a lot of people think of heat. And that’s not always a good thing for a lot of buildings these days. You think of shifting patterns of light and high contrast that can cause glare and those are just signs of systems that were not properly designed. But the nice thing is that with the Solatube, now applying day lighting is as easy as applying electric lighting to a space. And it’s a higher quality of daylight illumination than most architects would ever have thought possible.

How much do Solatube’s cost?

It really is dependent on the application type and what product size the homeowner, the Architect, the Lighting Engineer or the Business Owner wants. In a specific application, depending on where you are located (in Australia), single unit prices could range from $800 on up. Prices will vary depending on individual applications.

To find out more and to organise a obligation free daylighting designe for you home visit our website. If you want more information organising daylight design in you work-place visit our commercial daylight website for the lastest information about how daylight can improve any work place.

Thinking of buying a Wind Roof Vent or Wind Twister? STOP!

2011-08-14T14:24:00.000+10:00

Are you looking for an environmentally friendly, cost effective solution to keep your roof space well ventilated? Here is a great product from Solatube's Dealers that will give you great year round benefits!

Efficient Roof Ventilation is critical for a 'healthy home' all year round!

This revolutionary solar powered roof ventilation system out shines the traditional whirlybird or wind turbine option in every way.

Use this amazingly effective roof ventilation system to keep your roof space cool, stop it from getting damp and protect your insulation and your air con bills this Winter!

Just look at all the benefits!:

Costs Nothing to run.....Ever!
Optional Thermostat for Winter
Whisper Quiet - unlike most Whirlybird wind turbines!
Reduce your air conditioning bills - air con works more efficiently
Stops heat building up in your roof space
Just one unit will be enough for most homes
Quick & Easy installation in just 30mins
Leak proof, seamless flashing
Lightweight non-corrosive fan blade
Reduces damaging condensation.
Protects insulation from moisture saturation.
Fights mold and fungal decay.
Low unobtrusive roof profile

By placing the unit where it is most effective, the highest point on the roof, it can properly circulate air and ventilate your roof space, transforming your home into a comfortable living environment.

"But what if I don't want it to run on cooler days?"

No problem!

Our new optional Thermal Switch will stop your Solar Star from running when your roof space becomes cooler than 18 degrees. On top of this, it will automatically start up again as soon as your roof space reaches more than 28 degrees!

Will a traditional roof mounted Wind Turbine do that???

No way!

Remember, it's not the temperature outside that counts, it's how much heat your roof conducts that makes the difference. You need to remove all the 'super heated' hot air from your roof space and replace it with cooler air. The more air you remove and replace the cooler your home will be.

Powered by Solar Star's proprietary 10-watt solar panel, this breakthrough product has been designed to last season after season.

Visit here for more information about our Solar Star roof vent and for the details for your local Dealer.

AUSTRALIA EARTH HOUR 2011 - Solatube Daylight Devices are a great solution!

2011-03-03T20:17:00.002+10:00

Sign up and switch off for Earth Hour at 8:30pm Saturday 26 March – rally your friends and family and make it a night to remember. Switching your LIGHTS OFF is a simple act, yet a hugely powerful one, making a statement that we care about the planet, while also sending a reminder to our leaders that we want action.

Today the world stands on the verge of evolution in energy production, transformation in behaviour and growing environmental consciousness.

Multinational organisations are preparing themselves for the inevitability of a global market driven by low-carbon economic forces.

Individuals are developing a consumption conscience.

Environmental issues are gaining prominence on government agendas.

Why take part?

Though we are still at the beginning of the journey to an environmentally sustainable world, there is no question that the environmental conscience of the planet is evolving. However, the environmental challenges our planet faces remain as urgent as ever.

With over 4000 cities in over 128 countries taking part, Earth Hour has grown into the world’s largest community-driven campaign for the planet.

If this can be achieved in only four short years, imagine what else can be done! Earth Hour truly demonstrates the power of individuals, communities, businesses and governments to unite and make a difference.

Solatube Australia is offering you the chance to "switch off" permanently.

The Solatube Daylighting Device offers you a proven solution to turn LIGHTS OFF in your HOME or your WORK-PLACE; not just for Earth Hour, but FOREVER!

Contact Solatube Australia for their $100 "GREENBATE" promotion this special offer ends on the 04/04/2011 and is ONLY through selected Sydney and Brisbane Solatube Premier Dealers.

Contact Solatube Australia on free call 13 16 19 for more information!

Finally... Roof Ventilation that really works!!

2011-03-03T19:39:00.000+10:00

Solatube Australia Pty Ltd has long been known to provide “Innovation in Daylighting™” with its popular Solatube Daylighting Systems and accessories. Today, the company is pleased to shine the spotlight on its other energy-saving products, the Solar Star roof ventilator and the Solar Star Conversion Kit, both of which have proven to be a great way to cool you home in Summer.

It is well documented that a poorly ventilated roof space can increase heating and cooling costs, contribute to problems with dangerous mold and accelerate the deterioration of critical roof structures.

Temperatures inside a roof space with inadequate ventilation can reach as high as 60 degrees Celsius . Heat trapped in the roof sapce also radiates into the living space below causing air conditioning units to work even harder.

Solar Star attic fan’s photovoltaic capabilities, which utilize a technologically advanced “run-by-the-sun” solution, harnessing the sun’s rays to solve heat and moisture problems. That means there are no electricity costs associated with operation.

The Solar Star Conversion Kit boosts the performance of existing passive attic vents and transforms noisy- and energy-consuming vents into quiet and highly efficient solar-powered rooftop ventilators.

The Solar Star attic fan and Conversion Kit are designed with a leak proof and high-impact resistant design against hail, wind and foreign object damage. In addition, the products are “DIY-friendly.” Homeowners can easily install the product in about 30 minutes on any type of roof. Professional installation is also available.

For more information about the Solar Star roof ventilation from Solatube Australia just check it out just click THIS LINK

Solatube Daylight in your Aquarium?

2010-12-14T13:56:00.001+10:00

So why is daylight so important for your aquarium?

The colour. Natural sunlight has plenty of light in all spectrums, and will make many of the colours in your tanks "pop".
Seasonal issues. Sunlight in the tropics is pretty constant all year round. To that end, supplemental lighting would need to be employed; why not use Solatube Daylight.
You will save money with lower energy costs.
You will save money by reducing the replacement cost of artificial lighting and the costs associated with replacing the lamp bulbs.

Now for the fun part. Some pics of tanks that use natural sunlight!

Solatube Installation, A Real Fishtank Made Bright & Cheery

2010-12-14T12:06:00.001+10:00

CELEBRATE SUMMER with more Daylight!

2010-12-10T14:34:00.002+10:00

The 1st of December was the start of summer and, with more hours in the day, we encourage you to celebrate many of the great, natural benefits that daylight provides.

Because not everyone can enjoy the warmth and illumination of outdoor sunshine due to work, school, or issues that keep people indoors, bringing the sun into homes and buildings through “daylighting” has become an important element of modern design.

Daylight brought indoors has been shown to improve productivity, enhance health and wellness, and reduce overall energy costs. Pure natural daylight makes colours more vivid, reduces eye strain and, according to studies, the variation in solar light levels throughout the course of a day helps cure Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Here are 10 facts about daylighting that can help homeowners, office professionals and designers appreciate daylight on Daylight Appreciation Day and year-round:

Daylighting provides energy usage reduction during the most important time of day, peak hours, when energy rates are the highest and daylight availability is the greatest.
Integrating daylight into home designs can slash interior lighting costs by up to 80%.
Tubular Daylighting Devices can bring daylight into dark spaces into homes and businesses, and can be easily installed in about two hours without the hassle and expense of re framing.
A 2003 study of office worker's productivity found that exposure to daylight was consistently linked with higher levels of concentration and better short-term memory.
According to the Wisconsin-based Daylighting Collaborative, about 86% of electricity in traditional buildings is used for light, fans and cooling. A daylighting project can cut these costs by more than 50% by reducing electric lighting, because daylight produces less heat per unit of illumination than most light sources.
Daylight provides the truest and most vivid color rendition of all available light sources.
The Solatube 160 DS, tubular daylighting device designed for the home, can provide the equivalent of three, 100-watt incandescent light bulbs during the peak hours of the day without adding heat or glare to the room.
Studies in Canada and Sweden noted improved student behavior and health, including fewer days of absences per year, in daylit classrooms.
The new NAHB Green Home Building guidelines specifically recommend that Tubular Daylighting Devices be installed in rooms without windows.
Skylights are cited as the number one option in “dream bathroom” designs.

For more information about Solatube visit www.solatube.com.au

2010 Building Code of Australia and the 6 Star Energy Rating Requirements.

2010-12-10T14:06:00.006+10:00

With the introduction of the new Solatube E-Choice, Solatube Australia is pleased to assist when selecting a daylight solution to meet the 2010 Building Code of Australia and the 6 Star Energy Rating Requirements.

Solatube Australia is a Tubular Daylighting Device manufacturer utilising complex optic technologies to advance the daylight Capture, Transfer and Delivery process. Solatube Australia’s Tubular Daylighting technology provides unmatched lighting results with highly efficient thermal performance.

Solatube Tubular Daylighting Devices have been tested by the National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC). NFRC testing is recognised by the Australian Fenestration and Ratings Council (AFRC); as required by the 2010 Building Code of Australia.

The following table is designed to help you assess which product you need to meet the code.

Click for larger image

U-Factor measures how well the skylight prevents heat escaping an interior space. It measures the rate of heat transfer through a building element over a given area under standardised conditions. The lower the U-Factor, the better a product performs thus resulting in reduced heat transfer.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) defines the fraction of solar radiation admitted through the skylight and measures its ability to block solar generated heat. A lower SHGC rating will result in less transfer of solar heat within building interiors.

More technical and specification information on Solatube Tubular Daylighting Devices can be found on the Solatube Australia website www.solatube.com.au

Vision Australia, improving the building environment with Solatube Daylight!

2010-12-10T12:52:00.004+10:00

Vision Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that provides services, facilities and information to visually impaired persons. In order to provide better services and create a sustainable working space, Vision Australia contacted Solatube about installing tubular daylighting as part of the new building design.

The light brightness, level and tone were critical to the building’s design, as visually impaired persons would be using the space. This meant that Vision Australia had to seek trusted natural lighting options that would not produce heat or glare. A range of Solatube Tubular Daylighting Systems were utilised to create the perfect daylighting for Vision Australia’s needs.

Products Used

• 19 x Solatube 750DS Tubular Daylighting Systems

• 6 x Solatube 290DS Tubular Daylighting Systems

• 8 x Solatube 160DS Tubular Daylighting Systems

Gerrard Gosens, CEO, Vision Australia commented;

“Vision Australia’s new Coorparoo building is the flagship in the organisation in achieving greening and sustainable initiatives.

Solatube is a fundamental ingredient in assisting us achieve these initiatives. Solatube provides natural light and a comfortable climate and environment for clients and staff.

Solatube has helped us with our energy savings and construction costs, and has created a safe and productive environment for our clients and staff.”

For more information about Solatube Daylight for your home or work-place visit www.solatube.com.au

Daylight into your Office, Showroom or Living Space... what a great success!!

2010-12-10T12:32:00.001+10:00

The Solatube New Zealand (HomeTech) Auckland facility, in Cain Business Park, Penrose has glazing primarily lighting the front of the building. The majority of the space is internal, resulting in the building relying heavily on electric lighting.

The showroom demonstrates to clients the latest range of Solatube Daylighting Systems available and how these could fit into common daylight design challenges encountered with internal spaces. Daylighting opportunities for both Residential and Commercial buildings are well showcased!

Daylight into 'Living Space', what a great showroom!

With limited natural light available, a daylight design analysis was carried out. The design took into account the intended use of each area; with the view to maximise the use of natural light. Keeping in mind not only energy savings (displacing the need for electric lighting) but also looking at the positive benefits attributed to daylight on the human condition in internal work spaces disengaged from the external environment. Features include; the top floor meeting room and the energy rated Solatube 750DS-CC Daylighting System with integral Daylight Dimmer control. The ground floor office space is illuminated with side wall entry Solatube Daylighting Systems – a new design feature.

Proper Daylight & Lighting Design in the 'work place' is now possiable!
NO aftificial lighting here!

Mike Culllen, Solatube New Zealand’s National Trade Manager commented;

“The completed showroom is truly an outstanding demonstration of how natural light can be incorporated into any building type where there is the need and desire to utilise a natural resource for everyday living and function.”

“The display was enlightening. My first reaction to the wall mounted Solatube Tubular Daylight in our downstairs Office was that we would step out the door to the outside, not the warehouse."

Solatube TDDs the market leader!

2010-12-05T11:34:00.004+10:00

It is best to offer your Customer the guaranteed highest performing product to stay ahead of the competition. Solatube Tubular Daylight Devices have maintained their leadership in the daylighting market since their product’s inception 20 years ago. In fact in 2004, Solatube placed a challenge to all its competitors - "you claim your products are the same as the Solatube Daylight range, then prove it"!.

The challenge was to supply and test a product that beats the Solatube Tubular Daylighting Device in delivering the most natural light into homes and commercial buildings. For full details ask Solatube Australia for a copy of their Highest Performance Guarantee*.

No surprise, this task remains uncontested to date.

A big reason no competitors have challenged the performance of the Solatube Tubular Daylighting System is because the Solatube Tubular Dayligting Systems are widely respected, throughout the building industry, as “the best performing tubular daylight system” available today!

Other “skylight” products available are now long outperformed.

For any consumer considering installing “skylights” into their home, we recommend you properly investigate your needs; here is what we suggest you need to consider, and we really want you to understand there is a difference between buying a "traditional skylight" and having the correct "daylight design" for your application...!

(1) Some “traditional skylights” do not have technology to minimise heat gain (summer) & heat loss (winter); if you choose to install the wrong products they will have a major impact on your heating or cooling energy costs.

(2) Ask your “traditional skylight” provider for ARFC or NFRC certified test numbers to support the thermal performance they claim for their products. These thermal performance measurements are now a requirement of the 6 Star Australian Building Code.

(3) Traditional Skylight suppliers should be able to give you the same certified test results for (a) the SHGC (heat gain measurement), (b) the U-Value (heat loss measurement) and (c) 6 Six Star - Australian Building Code compliance advise for their products.If they can not do that and you are unsure about what you are being told, please visit the independent NFRC website to see the daylight products with that do have certified thermal testing completed http://www.nfrc.org/

(4) Most “skylights” are restricted in where they can be installed (i.e. top floor rooms only). That is not the case for Solatube Tubular Daylighting Devices. The Solatube Infinity tubing can be installed throughout the roof or building cavity, around obstacles and extend up to 6 or 9 metres, using the 160DS or 290DS models respectively.

(5) The whole Solatube Tubular Daylighting Device installation can take just two hours. The Solatube Tubular Daylighting Device has been designed to ‘stream-line’ the Install process; this ensures you will not have problems with your Solatube Daylight install and your investment for more daylight is directed into 'product benefits' and the latest technology, NOT just costly Tradespeople.

These are impressive characteristics compared with some ‘traditional skylight’ solutions.

These are the reasons the Solatube Tubular Daylighting Devices have been well received and are the #1 Tubular Daylight Solution in homes, businesses, schools and hospitals Globally and Australia-wide.

Raising energy costs and increasing regulations for Australian buildings to become more ‘energy efficient' have increased the demand for Solatube Tubular Daylighting Devices!

Cutting the amount of energy your building is using and introducing daylight to replace artificial lighting will save you money and improve the working or living environment!

For the highest performance tubular daylighting system guaranteed, phone Solatube on 13 16 19 or visit www.solatube.com.au.

Not just for home renovation projects! Solatube Distributors Demonstrate be nifits of daylighting in commercial settings.

2010-12-05T10:27:00.006+10:00

Widely known for its healthy home solutions, New Zealand company HomeTech Solatube (Solatube New Zealand) is pleased to reveal a number of recent projects that have seen the large scale installation of Solatube Daylighting Systems into commercial settings.

The Solatube™ Daylighting System is a state of the art roof to ceiling rigid Tubular Daylighting Device (TDD) that provides an abundance of pure, natural light to interior spaces, without using electricity.

Mike Cullen, National Trade Manager of HomeTech said: “Recently, we have undertaken a number of projects with forward-thinking companies who are looking to create efficient lighting strategies for specific commercial sites. As they look for ways to effectively manage their energy consumption; well designed daylighting is becoming a tangible consideration, displacing the reliance on artificial lighting for daytime operations.

“Further to the major incentive of decreased energy consumption and cost, clients are becoming more aware of the many benefits attributed to daylight exposure with studies proving positive gains made in the areas of staff productivity, increased retail sales, greater occupant well being, satisfaction and performance. The list goes on.”

Solatube Daylighting Systems have recently been installed at a Lexus showroom, Lion Nathan’s new brewery and at a purpose built National Bank branch in Auckland in 2009.

The Giltrap Group’s new Lexus showroom incorporates leading edge green technology and innovations that support the sustainable and environmental values and practices of the company. In designing the lighting scheme for the showroom, the main objective was to provide a bright, attractive and uncluttered environment for staff and customers with optimum light conditions for display of new Lexus cars.

At Lion Nathan’s new brewery and office, HomeTech Solatube worked with Beca Engineers and Mainzeal to provide a daylight solution tailored to the Lion Nathan site, which had to suit the unique elements of the new building, which houses both office and brewery facilities.

“Each of these projects was unique in the way the Solatube solution was applied, but on the whole, the result has been the same – we have very happy clients who, through our tailored solutions, are now enjoying the many benefits of daylighting in their workplaces.

“It is very rewarding for us to see large organisations adopting the principles of sustainability and taking notice of the many benefits of using natural lighting to illuminate commercial spaces, which include increased productivity, better staff retention and of course, energy savings.

“We are thrilled to see the application of this product widening, through use in both residential and commercial settings. It goes without saying that we are very proud to be involved in such projects where sustainable and energy efficient design is being put into practice,” said Mike Cullen.

For more information and assistance in your area visit www.solatube.co.nz

Solatube interview at the Better Homes & Gardens Live expo - Sydney 2010

2010-10-29T13:47:00.000+10:00

Certified Installers come to your home; NOT just Skylight Sales-People!

2010-10-23T02:29:00.004+10:00

Solatube Daylight Systems have a fast growing reputation as the best performing and largest selling Tubular Daylight Device (TDD) available.

Having , arguably, the BEST product does not always guarantee that we are the 'best option' for the home-owner; after 20 years experience, we have discovered to be your 'best option', we need a team of Special-Trades-People to provide the special service and professional advise you need when considering any significant daylight improvement in your home.

Over the last 20 years the Solatube Organisation has focused on the development of its Certified Installer network (CIC network).

When you call your local Solatube Dealer, you know your are going to get a trained 'daylight professional' to come and assist you identify the best daylight solution for your home! Solatube CIC's are there to help you decide on the best option for you, they are not (just) interested in under-cutting any skylight quoted price a competitor might be offering you.

All aspiring Solatube Daylight Installers must complete extensive training before they are appointed as a 'Certified Solatube Installation Consultant' (CIC's). This training happens initially in a intense Solatube UNI program conducted buy the Solatube International Distributor responsible in that specific Country.

But it does not stop there... CIC development is on-going as the Solatube Dealership works, in the field, to ensure the Solatube CIC meets the highly professional Solatube International demands for ALL Solatube CIC's.

So what should you expect from your CIC?

(1) This person has been trained to provide you with honest and friendly advise about the best 'daylight solution' for your needs.

Our Solatube CIC's are not coming to your home to sell you a skylight that might perform badly. Now more than ever you need to understand the difference between a 'traditional skylight' and the benefits of a Solatube Daylight System! Our Solatube CIC's want to assist you to understand the benefits of the Solatube Daylight solutions.

(2) Your local Solatube CIC will come prepared to install your Solatube Daylight System on-the-same-day! If that is what you decide you want to do!

(3) Solatube CIC's are professional Tradespeople. their installation skills are continually up-dated and refined via on-going training in our Solatube UNI.

Solatube Dealerships guarantee our Solatube CICs...

Will turn up on time for your appointment! if there has been unforeseen circumstances to detain us, you will be notified of the delay!
Will work with you to design the right Daylight Solutions you need; we will not just sell you a traditional skylight that might not be suitable for your application - JUST TO GET THE SALE.
Install your Solatube Daylight System professionally; and there is the 50/50 chance that it will be inspected by the Dealership GM as part of our Solatube Dealer 'Quality Assurance' and CIC development program!
Will remove all rubbish left from the installation from your home!
Will use drop-cloths to cover the valuables in your home!
Will vacuum and clean up any mess they make; ensuring you are left with NO clean-up work when we leave!

To make a in-house appointment with one of our Solatube CIC's in town or city, just visit the www.solatube.com.au website enter your post code into the 'dealer locator' section to find your local Solatube Dealer.

Lion Nathan seeing the NATURAL LIGHT!

2010-10-22T10:42:00.005+10:00

HomeTech Solatube worked with Beca Engineers and with main contractor Mainzeal to provide a daylight solution tailored to the Lion Nathan site.

Objective: A focus on sustainability was at the core of every design decision for the new Lion Nathan facility, including ways of incorporating natural light into the buildings. The Solatube Daylighting System is one solution, but even that was not a straightforward process.

Solution: Mike Cullen, National Trade Manager says, “The job threw up a couple of challenges, not least of which was having to manoeuvre around the mechanical plant located centrally in the ceiling void. This required two 90˚ turns in the light shaft in order to place the diffuser in the centre of the corridor.”

Variance in the clear space above the corridor meant the Spectralight® Infinity light shaft ranged from 3.2m to 4.6m. Despite these quirks, the Solatube 290DS Daylighting System was well suited to the application.

The effective daylight capture surface (EDCS) of the Solatube 290DS Daylighting System is an impressive 1871cm2. This light is then reflected and diffused along the entire length of the rigid tubing, before being filtered through the diffuser and out into the room below.

The 350mm Spectralight® Infinity Tubing has 99.7% spectral reflectivity and when coupled with the OptiView® Diffuser, an illuminance level of 600 lux was read at midday – brighter than standard office lighting. The system also carries an R-value of 0.41, minimising solar heat gain and temperature loss.

Products Used: 4 x Solatube 290DS Daylighting Systems utilising 90˚ bends to manoeuvre around structural limitations.

Testimonial from Lion Nathan, Project Manager: “The use of Solatube Daylighting Systems in the staff access corridor has fully satisfied one of the Project Century design and build team’s environmental objectives of maximising the use of natural light wherever possible.” Duncan Field Project Manager Lion Nathan

Certified Solatube Installation - Before & After

2010-10-20T14:49:00.001+10:00

Solatube Daylighting Systems

2010-10-20T14:46:00.001+10:00

Solatube® Daylighting... still the market leader in New Zealand

2010-09-25T12:07:00.002+10:00

Our New Zealand International Partner, HomeTech Solatube, their Managing Director, Mr. Paul Neilson and his right hand man Mr. Mike Cullen have the reputation for building and maintaining the highest Solatube market penetration in the World (per head of population). A reputation they have held for the best part of 20 years!

Hometech Solatube have some of the most experienced Certified Installation Consultants (CICs) going around. They are a unique group of first class professional daylight consultants and have been a major contributor to the success Solatube DS is having in New Zealand.

There will be allot more to share in this BLOG about the New Zealand team; but most recently they have had some significant commercial daylighting success with some major New Zealand companies. Many of these Companies will not allow us to release details of the projects they have completed using Solatube DS products; we can only assume that means they are achieving benefits they don't want to share with their Competitors!

But here are a few images of a recently completed project, just to show you the very high standard HomeTech Solatube is achieving.. these images are just too good not to share!

There is no question HomeTech Solatube is still leading the way!!

Watch this space... our New Zealand Partners are doing some fantastic things to develop the markets for the Solatube DS products!

Solatube® Daylighting... making it big in japan

2010-09-25T11:32:00.006+10:00

Japan is respected as one of the most exciting markets in which to do business in the world!

Solatube Australia is very proud of the work its International Partner, Skylight-Tube Japan, is doing to develop the Solatube® Brand and Products in arguably one of the most import global markets for Solatube DS products! Our Solatube® Partners are developing Japanese Dealership Relationships and are working very hard on the "Solatube® International" business model to build on their success.

Government awareness and rewards

Skylight-Tube Japan has done a great job establishing the Solatube® TDD technology as a serious daylighting solution; this has been achieved after many years of hard work by the Team in Japan, lead by their President - Inoue san.

Inoue san and his team have worked hard and have been included in major government incentive and recognition programs. They were very happy to be recognised by the Japan Ministry of Economy / Trade and the Japan Industry of Environment

as part of the the 2009 Eco Products Awards
as part of the Eco House Renovation Subsidy program.

In addition to the great achievements with Government support programs, Skylight-Tube Japan has a growing Premier Dealer network servicing the Residential Market. The unique traditional Japanese home building design has been a issue for skylight performance in the past. Up to 80% of the traditional Japanese homes have 2 or 3 stories, with most of the 'used living space' located on the ground floor. Without the exclusive Solatube® Infinity tubing, skylights just don't transfer enough daylight into the building!

But most importantly of all... the Solatube DS product looks great in the traditional Japanese style home!

But it does not stop there! Skylight-Tube Japan is very lucky to have the services of Ushiku san, a respected Architect in Tokyo. Together Inoue san , Ushiku san and their team continue to have success in developing Commercial Daylighting opportunities with some large and successful Japanese companies!

With this BLOG we will keep you up-dated with the progress of our Japaneses partners; they are doing a fantastic job for the Solatube Global Family!

In a recent trip to Japan I met a very capable team of people working hard to establish a Japanese Premier Dealer network that will build the Solatube® Brand into the Residential market throughout Japan.

Like the rest of the Solatube Premier Dealers - all over the world - our Japan Premier Dealers are (1) building dealer showrooms, (2) putting "Solatube Vans" on the road, (3) working hard to find suitable "Power of 3" marketing opportunities and of course (4) investing in education and knowledge transfer via the Japan Solatube UNI.

I look forward to sharing more on their progress very soon!

Solatube® Daylighting... in offices

2010-09-24T22:55:00.001+10:00

It is widely accepted that Government buildings are responsible for almost 50 per cent of the Nations energy consumption and carbon emissions. Electric lighting is a major source of energy consumption – and not only by the provision of artificial light but also in the demand it in turn creates for cooling. Solatube Daylighting Systems can deliver amazing levels of natural light – providing an enhanced working environment and the subsequent benefits of increased staff productivity, reduced absenteeism, true and vivid colour rendition, and increased property value.

Furthermore, Solatube Daylighting Systems do not bring the negative consequences associated with traditional methods of introducing daylight, such as glare, solar heat gain, heat loss, major disruption to working patterns and high implementation and running costs.

Solatube® Daylighting... in retail

2010-09-24T22:43:00.000+10:00

A 1999 Pacific Gas & Electric Company daylighting study analyzed a retail chain of 108 stores where two-thirds of the stores were lit with skylights and one-third were not. All other things being equal, the study found that the stores with natural lighting had 40% higher sales than those without. (Heschong Mahone Group HMG “Skylighting and Retail Sales”. Report at www.h-m-g.com)

In 2003, a retail study "Productivity and Building Science" was conducted by Integrated Energy Systems to replicate the HMG study with a new (anonymous) retailer. The report backed up the HMG study, confirming amongst other findings that:Stores with the most favorable daylighting conditions had a 40% increase in sales compared to non-daylit stores, consistent with the findings of the HMG study.

Cost savings can be significant too; at a new 'green' McDonalds store in the USA, 24 percent less energy is used than a standard McDonalds thanks to the installation of 19 Solatube® Daylighting Systems which provide natural lighting to 92 percent of the restaurant.

Solatube® Daylighting... in industry

2010-09-24T22:01:00.003+10:00

Intelligent building and refurbishment programmes incorporating modern tubular daylighting devices (TDDs), such as Solatube® Daylighting Systems, could dramatically reduce the daytime power usage in Australia. Industrial premises are ideal candidates for a natural lighting solution such as Solatube® Daylighting Systems.

For example, in a single story, metal-clad construction with no windows and rows of sodium or metal-halide lighting, the energy used for lighting would typically account for around 70-80% of the total power requirement for the building. If these lights can be turned off during daylight hours, the reduction in emissions and corresponding costs savings would be considerable.

As well as a site-wide electricity reduction many companies who have installed Solatube® Daylighting Systems also reported that the employees responded positively to working under natural light.

Solatube® Daylighting... unusual but brilliant!

2010-09-24T20:32:00.009+10:00

Solatube® gives a lighter pint at the Otter Brewery.

The Brewery have always felt a responsibility for the environment and were keen to extend this to their new 'eco cellar' in the brewery. The cellar already incorporates many features that help maintain their environmental responsibilities and reduce the Brewery’s carbon footprint. Introducing Solatube Daylight was a vital part of their plan to improve the cellar environment!

Solatube Daylight helping the Otter Brewery

Getting Solatube Daylight into the Otter Brewery - through the wall not the roof!

Cardiff Police Station


Solatube Daylight running from the roof to 'holding cells' located below.

Sometimes an application comes along that extends the boundaries of what is thought possible. Such was the case at the newly constructed Cardiff Police Station where additional daylight was necessary in the 66 holding cells that were located on the ground and first floors. The challenge set to SolaLighting was firstly to establish if a tube length of approximately 20 metres would deliver sufficient daylight to illuminate the cells, and, secondly, to find the most feasible route from the building's exterior to the ceiling of each cell.

Following a number of site meetings, routes were determined for all the cells; eighteen cells had daylight delivered from wall-mounted Solatube Daylighting Systems that required one 90 degree angle into the ceiling of each cell, whilst the remaining 48 cells had light delivered from roof domes located several stories above the cells, via tubes that incorporated two 0-90 degree angle adaptors. Furthermore, some of the 530mm diameter systems that brought daylight from the rooftop via the atrium of the building were then connected to three smaller diameter systems that delivered the daylight into three cells, making this probably the most unique and challenging Solatube installation to date.

Difficult access can be overcome!

Solatube Daylight into the 'holding cells' below.

Solatube® Daylighting... in healthcare facilities

2010-09-24T19:02:00.014+10:00

Click for larger image

Solatube® Daylighting Systems bring many advantages and benefits to healthcare facilities:

Daylighting has been shown in numerous studies to improve patient well-being and healing rates;

A study for The Center for Health Design in August 2006 entitled “The Impact of Light on Outcomes in Healthcare Settings" found that light reduces depression among patients, decreases length of stay in hospitals, improves sleep and circadian rhythm, lessens agitation among dementia patients, eases pain, and improves adjustment to night-shift work among staff. There is also a direct correlation between work environment satisfaction and access to daylight in that environment.

Patients recover more quickly and hospital staff prefer to work in a naturally-lit environment
Solatube® Daylight Dimmers allow light levels to be set according to patient requirements
Unlike traditional windows and rooflights, there is virtually no solar gain in summer or heat loss in winter so further energy & cost savings can be made
Solar glare is eliminated; Solatube® Daylighting Systems provide beautifully diffused natural light with no 'hot spots' or harsh shafts of light
No maintenance is required inside or out

Solatube Daylight in Hospital Ward

Solatube® Daylighting... in educational facilities

2010-09-24T18:48:00.012+10:00

Solatube® Daylighting Systems can help cut energy costs significantly and at the same time reduce your school's carbon footprint and improve the working environment for your staff and pupils. Many educational institutions across the Australia and throughout the world are benefiting from the installation of Solatube® Daylighting Systems.

Aside from the reduction in energy costs and use, they also appreciate that a naturally-lit learning environment helps make pupils more alert and motiviated, which in turn contributes to improved learning results. This is backed up by research such as that by Lisa Heschong of the Heschong Mahone Group in the USA (www.h-m-g.com).

Pupils and teachers perform better in a naturally-lit environment
Energy costs can be significantly cut by eliminating the need for electric lighting during school (daylight) hours
Unlike traditional windows and rooflights, there is virtually no solar gain in summer or heat loss in winter so further energy & cost savings can be made
No maintenance is required inside or out
The Solatube® Roof domes are tough and secure
The natural light diffused by Solatube® Daylighting Systems is ideal for teaching with learning aids such as whiteboards or computer screens as glare is eliminated


Solatube Daylight in Classroom

Solatube Daylight Library

Solatube Daylight into school roof