Daylighting
"Daylighting" is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to use solar energy at home. This technique involves building a house to take advantage of the sun's rays. Windows are strategically positioned to provide adequate light without overheating the area, and the interior design is planned to diffuse the light throughout the room.
Using natural sunlight throughout your home can not only lower your electricity bills, but also improve the comfort and mood of your family members. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a home built with "daylighting" techniques can have lighting costs 40 to 60 percent lower than a typical home - and that can lighten anyone's mood!
Daylighting is accomplished in newly-constructed homes by strategically orienting spaces like the kitchen and family rooms to allow the most sunlight. Window size and placement is also important in daylighting.
For existing homes, tube-type skylights can be a cost-effective option for bringing more natural light into the house. Solar tubes require smaller roof openings, have exterior flashing to prevent leakage, and the interior of the tube is highly reflective to maximize light entering from any direction.
A tube-type solar light of just 10-inches in diameter effectively brightens a bathroom or hallway. For larger living areas, a 14-inch diameter tube lights the way.
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