Make Your Home Brighter with Solar Skylights

Have you ever walked into a room that felt dark and stuffy? Maybe you turned on the lights even during the day, or you wished for more fresh air. Solar skylights could be the perfect answer to these problems. These amazing windows use the sun’s energy to make your home brighter and more comfortable. A study by VELUX America found that adding solar skylights in homes—even in warm climates like Los Angeles—can reduce the need for artificial lighting and heating, helping homeowners save energy and improve comfort at the same time.

Solar skylights are not just regular windows in your roof. They are smart windows that can open and close by themselves. They bring in natural light from above while also letting fresh air flow through your house. Best of all, they run on solar power, which means they don’t add to your electric bill.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about solar skylights. You’ll learn how they work, why they’re great for your home, and how to choose the right ones. We’ll also talk about how much they cost and whether they’re worth the money.

Quick Summary

• Solar powered skylights bring in natural light, fresh air, and energy savings.
• They run on built-in solar panels, batteries, and have rain sensors that close them automatically.
• Even though the installation requires planning, these skylights are worth it for the comfort and energy savings they provide.

What Are Solar Skylights and How Do They Work?

Solar skylights are basically regular skylights with superpowers. While a normal skylight is just a window that stays in one position, solar skylights can move. They can open when you want fresh air and close when it starts to rain. They do all of this using energy from the sun.

Think of solar skylights as having a tiny computer inside. This computer gets its power from a small solar panel. The solar panel soaks up sunlight during the day and stores that energy in a battery. Then, when you press a button on your remote control, the stored energy makes the skylight open or close.

Main Parts of a Solar Skylight

Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes a solar skylight work:

1. The Glass Window: This is the main part you see. It’s made of strong glass or clear plastic that lets light through. The glass is usually treated to block harmful sun rays while still letting in plenty of light.
2. The Solar Panel: This small panel sits on your roof near the skylight. It’s usually about the size of a book. The panel catches sunlight and turns it into electricity. Most solar panels for skylights are very efficient and can collect energy even on cloudy days. If you’re interested in learning more about solar technology, check out our guide on DIY solar systems and how to build your own solar panels.
3. The Battery Pack: This hidden battery stores the electricity from the solar panel. The battery is usually tucked away inside the skylight frame where you can’t see it. Most batteries can store enough power to open and close the skylight many times, even during several cloudy days in a row. For more information about battery storage options, read our comprehensive guide to home batteries for 2025.
4. The Motor: This is what actually moves the skylight. When you tell the skylight to open, the motor uses power from the battery to push or pull the window. These motors are quiet and strong enough to handle wind and weather.
5. Rain Sensor: This smart sensor can tell when it starts to rain. As soon as it feels water drops, it automatically closes the skylight. This protects your home from getting wet inside, even if you’re not home.
6. Remote Control: Most solar skylights come with a handheld remote. Some also work with smartphone apps. You can open, close, or adjust your skylight from anywhere in the room.

Benefits of Solar-Powered Skylights

Solar skylights offer many advantages that regular skylights simply can’t match. Let’s look at the biggest benefits you’ll enjoy:

More Natural Light That You Can Control

Regular skylights give you light, but you can’t change how much comes in. Solar skylights are different. On very bright days, you can close them partway to reduce glare. When it’s cloudy, you can open them all the way to let in every bit of available light.

Natural light makes your home feel more welcoming and can even improve your mood. Studies show that people who get more natural light during the day sleep better at night. They also feel more alert and happy during the day. For more ways to brighten your home naturally, explore our guide to the complete guide to energy efficient lighting.

Fresh Air That Flows Through Your House

Unlike fixed skylights that never open, solar skylights can bring fresh air into your home. This is especially helpful in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms where moisture and odors can build up.

Fresh air circulation helps in many ways. It removes stale air and brings in oxygen-rich air from outside. This can help reduce indoor pollution from cleaning products, cooking, and other sources. Better air quality means your family breathes easier and feels healthier.

Save Money on Your Electric Bills

Solar skylights can help cut your energy costs in two main ways. First, they reduce how much artificial lighting you need during the day. Second, they help with natural cooling by letting hot air escape through the top of your house.

During summer, hot air rises to the ceiling. If you open your solar skylights during the evening, this hot air can escape. Cooler air then flows in through your windows and doors. This natural cooling effect means your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.

Easy to Use with Smart Features

Modern solar skylights are incredibly convenient. Most come with remote controls that let you adjust them from across the room. Some can even be programmed to open and close at certain times of day.

The rain sensor feature is particularly helpful. You never have to worry about rushing home to close your skylights when a storm hits. They’ll close themselves automatically, keeping your home dry and safe.

Better for the Environment

Solar skylights help the environment in several ways. They use clean energy from the sun instead of electricity from the power grid. They also reduce your home’s overall energy use by providing natural light and ventilation.

By choosing solar skylights, you’re doing your part to reduce pollution and conserve energy. Many homeowners feel good knowing they’re making their homes more eco-friendly.

Popular Solar Skylight Models and What Makes Them Special

Several companies make solar skylights, but VELUX is the most well-known brand. They’ve been making quality skylights for decades and offer several excellent solar-powered models.

All models include:

• A small solar panel
• A concealed battery
• A rain sensor
• Smooth, quiet operation

Before Installing Solar Skylights

• Choose the Right Location: The best spot for a solar skylight gets plenty of sunlight throughout the day. South-facing roof sections usually work best, but east and west-facing areas can also work well. Avoid areas with lots of shade from trees or other buildings.
• Check Your Roof Structure: Your roof needs to be strong enough to support the skylight. Most roofs can handle the weight, but very old roofs might need reinforcement. A professional installer will check this for you.
• Get Permits: Many areas require building permits for skylight installation. Your installer can usually handle this paperwork, but it’s good to know about it ahead of time.

The Installation Process

Step 1: Cutting the Opening

The installer will carefully cut a hole in your roof and ceiling. They use special tools to make sure the opening is exactly the right size. This step requires skill to avoid damaging your roof structure.

Step 2: Adding Support

The installer adds extra framing around the opening to support the skylight. This framing also provides a place to attach the waterproof flashing.

Step 3: Installing Flashing

Flashing is thin metal strips that prevent water from leaking around the skylight. Proper flashing installation is crucial for keeping your home dry. Good installers take extra time to get this right.

Step 4: Mounting the Skylight

The skylight unit is carefully positioned and secured to the framing. The installer makes sure it’s level and properly sealed.

Step 5: Connecting the Solar Panel

The solar panel is mounted nearby and connected to the skylight’s control system. The panel needs to face the sun for best performance.

Step 6: Interior Finishing

The installer completes the interior work, which might include painting, installing trim, or adding insulation around the opening.

Step 7: Testing Everything

Finally, the installer tests all functions to make sure everything works correctly. They’ll show you how to use the remote control and explain the maintenance requirements.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Solar Skylight

Once your skylight is installed, use these tips to make sure it works its best:

Time Your Ventilation: Open your skylights during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening. This brings in fresh air without making your home too hot.

Use Shades Wisely: If your skylights have built-in shades, use them to control heat gain during hot summer days. Close them partially during the hottest part of the day, then open them when it cools down.

Create Air Flow: For best ventilation, open windows on the lower level of your home when you open your skylights. This creates a “chimney effect” that pulls fresh air through your entire house.

Regular Maintenance for Best Performance

Keep Them Clean: Clean your skylights every few months, just like regular windows. Use a mild soap solution and avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the seals.

Check the Solar Panel: Make sure leaves, snow, or debris don’t cover the solar panel. A blocked panel can’t collect energy effectively.

Test the Rain Sensor: Once a year, test the rain sensor by spraying a little water on it. The skylight should close automatically within a few seconds.

Addressing Common Concerns About Solar Skylights

Some people worry about certain issues with skylights. Here’s the truth behind those concerns.

Will Solar Skylights Leak?

Good news: modern skylights are designed not to leak when installed correctly. Make sure to use the right flashing kit and follow all the steps carefully. Professionals often offer a warranty for peace of mind.

Will They Let In Too Much Heat?

During summer, skylights can add heat. But solar skylights come with shades and low-E glass to reflect heat. This keeps your home cooler.

Will They Be Loud in Rain?

Rain or hail can make noise on skylights, but many solar skylights use laminated glass that reduces noise a lot.

Is It Hard to Maintain?

Solar skylights need very little care. Clean the glass and solar panel now and then, check the battery, and inspect the seals once or twice a year.

What to Think About Before Buying a Solar Skylight

Here are a few important things to consider:

Wrapping Up

Solar-powered skylights are a great addition to any home, offering benefits energy savings, better indoor air quality, cost savings, and environmental benefits. With different types and features available, you can find the perfect skylight to fit your needs and make your living space better. Whether you choose a fixed skylight for more light or a fresh air skylight for better air flow, investing in solar-powered technology will bring lasting benefits and brighten your home for years to come.

For more ways to make your home more energy efficient, explore our comprehensive guide on easy ways to save energy at home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Skylights

How do solar skylights work when it’s cloudy for several days?

Solar skylights have built-in batteries that store energy from sunny days. These batteries typically provide enough power to operate the skylight for 3-7 days of cloudy weather. The exact time depends on how often you use the skylight and the battery capacity.

Can I install solar skylights on any type of roof?

Solar skylights work on most roof types, including asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and slate. However, the installation method may vary depending on your roofing material. Flat roofs require special curb-mounted models for proper drainage.

How much maintenance do solar skylights need?

Solar skylights require minimal maintenance. Clean the glass and solar panel every few months, check seals annually, and test the rain sensor once a year. The motor and electronic components are designed to be maintenance-free for many years.

Will solar skylights work during power outages?

Yes! Since solar skylights run on their own solar power system, they continue to work even when your home loses electricity. This can be especially valuable for ventilation during extended power outages.

How long does installation typically take?

Most solar skylight installations take 4-8 hours per skylight, depending on your roof type and any complications. Simple installations on standard roofs might be completed in half a day, while complex installations could take a full day or more.