Did you know that with just a few simple improvements your home's energy efficiency could soar? And what better way to improve your home than by installing skylights? Yes, that’s right—adding natural light can do wonders for your utility bills.
While skylights have always been prized for their aesthetic benefits, there are also many other advantages. For instance, in addition to improving a space's overall look and feel and bringing in much-needed sun exposure, they also provide superior insulation from heat loss when properly installed.
Here are nine ways to increase energy efficiency with skylights in any room:
Choose the Right Type of Skylight
You know what they say, a skylight a day keeps the gloominess at bay! But with so many types of skylights to choose from, it can be overwhelming. Don't worry; we've got your back.
Think about the space you want to add some more sunshine to. Do you want a frameless skylight that keeps the rays coming in or a manual vented skylight that lets in some fresh air? Maybe a solar-powered skylight is a way to make your wallet and planet happy. Or, if you want to feel like an astronaut, go for a tube skylight that brings in natural light without compromising your privacy.
Whatever your fancy, choosing the right skylight can make a world of difference in your space, mood and energy efficiency.
Install the Skylights in the Right Place
Calling all sun worshippers! By strategically placing skylights in areas that get a lot of natural light, you're getting your daily dose of vitamin D and reducing your need for artificial lighting during the day.
Have you ever heard the phrase, "Location, location, location"? That applies to skylights too. So put, if you're going to drill holes in your roof, ensure it's in the right spot, or you might end up with a skylight that's about as useful as a napkin in a hurricane.
Keep Your Roof Pitch in Mind
Do you know what goes up but never comes down? The price of your energy bills. That's where skylights come in–they can lower the need for artificial light and help keep your home cooler. But before you start doing backflips about your future penny-pinching, keep your roof pitch in mind. A steep roof pitch may require a different type of skylight than a flat roof.
Make Sure Your Skylight is Properly Insulated
When it comes to skylights, insulation is critical. It's all about creating a barrier between the interior and exterior that helps keep the warm and cold air inside. With proper insulation, your energy costs can be reduced by up to 40%. So ensure you check for any air leaks around the skylight and take measures to ensure it's adequately insulated.
Opt for Automated Controls
If you're looking for a way to make your life easier (and who isn't?), consider adding automated controls to your skylights. Whether it’s a rain sensor that automatically closes when the weather turns or an occupancy sensor that adjusts the skylight's position depending on how many people are in the room, these nifty gadgets can really up your skylight game.
Use Low-E Glass
Low-emissivity glass, or Low-E glass, is specially designed with a coating that reflects infrared light and helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter–without sacrificing natural light. So if you want to get the most bang for your buck regarding energy efficiency, opt for Low-E glass skylights.
Use Energy-Efficient Glazing
Want to impress your friends and be a green machine at the same time? Installing skylights with energy-efficient glazing can decrease your energy usage and costs. It's like having your cake and eating it too, but it's the sun instead of cake. You'll be able to soak up the natural light without worrying about that second job you were considering to pay your electricity bill.
Choose High-Quality Blinds or Shades
Ready to step up your skylight game to the pro level? Choosing energy-efficient blinds or shades is like the icing on the cake for energy efficiency. Not only do they keep the harsh sun rays at bay, but they add a touch of style to any room.
Maintain Your Skylights
To keep your skylights happy, you need to maintain them. But, much like how you need to maintain your plant to keep them from dying, your skylights need some love too. Regular cleaning and inspection will help your skylights work to their fullest potential. Plus, who doesn't love an excuse to climb on their roof and pretend they're king or queen of the world?
Conclusion
Skylights are the royalty of energy efficiency and natural lighting. They help regulate temperature, brighten up any space, and reduce the need for artificial lighting so that you can save some money. Plus, let's be honest, who wouldn't want to stargaze from their bed? So don't let your home be a cave – let the sunshine in with high-quality rooflights from Cambridge Skylights.