Sun-pipe technology
Sunpipe and Solartube systems are used to convey concentrated natural daylight into darkened spaces within your home or premises. The system can be applied to any roof type and convey natural light to almost any room with an accessible roof above it.
They will also save on lighting in those corners that require electrical lighting in daylight hours. The system works on any light available and so will work on overcast days but will of course provide the best light on clear, sunny days.
The diagram above shows equivalent lighting
- Winter / over cast <> 140 Watt
- Clear winter sky <> 200 Watt
- Summer Over cast <> 300 Watt
- Full Summer Sun <> 500+ Watts
Essentially, light is piped down into your living or working spaces by a highly reflective aluminium pipe. Within the room, the ceiling light diffuser distributes light in every direction providing an even, comfortable lighting.
For darkened bathrooms, there are systems are available that incorporate both lighting and ventilation services.
A sun-pipe can be any length and still be effective but lighting losses of 6% for every meter will be expected. There is also a 12% reduction for every 45 degree elbow required to reach the roof.
Internally, various finishes and options are available, including a black-out plate which is particularly useful in bedroom installations – this can be motorised or manually applied. Equally, a small halogen light can be included within the pipe to provide lighting after dark.
Lit area
Smaller sun-pipes up to 10 inches in diameter are sufficient for lighting small enclosed areas up to 6ft by 9ft such as shower rooms. Larger 12 to 14 inch sun-tubes will light an average sized room up to 12ft by 9ft. Larger diameters of 18 inches and above are suitable for larger rooms or possibly public spaces such as galleries, public swimming pools etc.
Planning
Planning permission is not normally required. However, exceptions may apply for systems on listed buildings, in conservation areas or areas of outstanding natural beauty. Consult your local planning authority if you are unsure.
Warranty
A manufacturer warranty of 25 years is standard, but the installation is expected to last at least 30 years. In addition to this, Hendra Renewable Energy will provide a one year warranty on all workmanship.
Cost and energy saving
As with any system it is very difficult to provide guideline costs as every project will have its own intricacies and special requirements. In general, sun-pipes will take up to a week to order and deliver and then only half a day to install. A typical domestic installation, (a 9 to 14 inch diameter sun-pipe,) without any extension tubes, (requires the roof to be within 4ft of the ceiling,) generally costs £500 to £600 installed, before VAT, depending on the type of system specified. However, once installed, these systems are maintenance free and provide free lighting every day. In commercial and larger scale applications costs can vary between £800 and £1500 per sun-tube, before VAT, depending on the type of system specified and the quantity installed. Combined natural daylight and ventilation systems for bathrooms typically cost between £1000 and £1600 installed, before VAT, depending on system size and specification. As installation involves the removal of tiles or roofing fabrics it should be noted that the work will only be completed when the weather is fine.
We believe that sustainable lighting and heating systems will become a valuable investment to any home or premises, and could be of further financial benefit when the new energy efficiency ratings are introduced.
If you live between Exeter and Truro then we insist on conducting a pre-installation survey of your house or premises free of charge to make sure that your system is correctly specified.
We have experienced, knowledgeable and friendly staff ready to advise you on any query and/or to provide you with a no obligation quotation. Give Hendra a call to arrange a free survey and meet the team who would install the system for you should you decide to proceed
Please contact us on:
Tel: 01566 779542
Fax: 01566 779133
E-mail:
Hendra Renewable Energy is a trading name of S J Yeo Electrical Engineers Ltd
Company No. 4535121 Registered in England
HENDRA RENEWABLE ENERGY
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