SOLVED: The Best Solatube Skylight for Your Home!

If you’re looking for a fast, affordable way to bring beautiful, natural light into your home, you should be considering a Solatube Daylighting System. But with different models available, how do you choose the right one? The key lies in understanding your space, lighting needs, and the unique benefits of each model.

Solatube 160 Series and 290 Series

Solatube daylighting systems use advanced technology to capture sunlight from your roof and deliver it into your home through highly reflective tubing. The two primary options are the Solatube 160 Series and the Solatube 290 Series, each designed for different room sizes and lighting needs.

Solatube 160 Series: Perfect for Compact Spaces

If you’re looking to brighten up smaller spaces like bathrooms, hallways, closets, or laundry rooms, the Solatube 160 Series is an excellent choice. With a 10-inch diameter tube, this model is designed to fit seamlessly into compact areas to brighten up tight spaces with natural light. It can extend up to 20 feet or more in length, depending on your ceiling height and roof structure.

This series is available in two versions:

  • 160 ISn – This model features an integrated Solar NightLight, making it eligible for a federal tax credit. The NightLight provides a soft glow in the evening, while the dimmer allows you to control daylight levels.
  • 160 DS – The standard version without the integrated Solar NightLight still offers the same high-quality daylighting performance.

For those looking to maximize functionality, a Ventilation Add-On Kit is available exclusively for the 160 Series, making it a great option for spaces like bathrooms where moisture control is important.

Solatube 290 Series: Ideal for Large, Open Spaces

For bigger spaces such as kitchens, family rooms, or entryways, the Solatube 290 Series is your go-to skylight. With a 14-inch diameter tube, it captures and distributes significantly more daylight, ensuring even, widespread illumination. This system can extend up to 30 feet or more, making it perfect for multi-story homes where a longer tube run is necessary.

The 290 Series also comes in two versions:

  • 290 ISn – Includes the Solar NightLight or Solar-Powered Daylight Dimmer, both of which qualify for a federal tax credit while adding convenient nighttime illumination.
  • 290 DS – A non-solar version that delivers powerful daylighting without the added tax-credit-qualifying features.

How to Choose the Right Solatube for Your Home

If you’re wondering whether the Solatube 160 Series or 290 Series is the right fit, consider the size of your space and how much natural light you need. Smaller, enclosed spaces benefit from the 160 Series, while larger rooms require the increased daylighting power of the 290 Series. No matter which model you choose, Solatube Daylighting Systems provide an energy-efficient, cost-effective way to introduce beautiful, natural daylight into your home—all without the expense or construction needed for traditional windows or skylights.

Let’s Find the Perfect Daylighting Solution for You

Still unsure which model is best for your home? Contact us today for a free consultation! The daylight experts at Daylight Concepts can help you determine the best daylighting solution based on your space, lighting needs, and home design.