Telling a homeowner they will save money won’t necessarily convince them to install skylights. But when you can give them a rough estimate, it gives them pause to consider. With just one venting skylight in the living room, some homeowners can potentially save quite a bit on their annual electrical bill. Let's break it down in the next couple of sections. These savings do depend on the number of skylights, placement on the roof, and the local climate.
Savings on Lighting
One 2’x4’ skylight can continuously provide up to 37,150 lumens or more from sunrise to sunset, depending on weather and the skylight's position. Even if there is a long light well, this skylight can stilll provide up to 18,575 lumens continuously throughout the day. This is comparable to approximately 11 100-watt light bulbs.
For this example, let's use the average US electricity rate, which is $0.17 per kilowatt-hour. Most single-family homes have 4 light bulbs in the living room and use them an average of 4-6 hours a day. If 60-watt bulbs are used, that is an approximate annual cost of $59 (4h) - $89 (6h).If 100-watt bulbs, then the approximate cost can be close to $100.
After installing a 2'X4', many homeowners report using their artificial lights 4 hours less a day. So, just one 2’x4’ skylight provides a room with continuously brighter light and potential savings.
Several factors affect the amount of money that can be saved on HVAC costs with a skylight. Climate is the biggest. Homes in warmer climates can benefit from a venting skylight. They allow warm air to escape through the ceiling, potentially using less air conditioning. Homes in colder climates can benefit from the solar heat gain in the winter months, thereby potentially reducing the need for heating in the winter. It's important to remember that a home’s insulation is a big factor. Thin insulation or cracks in the exterior walls will continue to leak air from inside.
Optional glazing on the skylight can further increase energy efficiency. However, VELUX Skylight System with factory-installed shades is the most beneficial. According to an energy study conducted by Group 14 and commissioned by VELUX found that an average single-family home can potentially save up to $9 - $31 annually on HVAC, depending on the local climate and the skylight's position.
And with energy costs continuing to rise, the savings will only continue to grow.
An inspiring view that saves money is one reason to install skylights. Discovering that natural light and improved air quality elevate the mood, increase energy, and lower blood pressure is another one.
According to studies, regular exposure to morning and evening daylight helps many to reset their circadian rhythm. Daylight is absorbed by cones on the back of the retina, which signal the production of serotonin. The body uses this neurotransmitter to regulate systems throughout the body. At the end of the day, serotonin production turns to melatonin. When exposed to early morning sunlight, the body produces melatonin sooner. This helps people fall asleep more easily. Some homeowners have said they added up to 46 minutes of extra sleep a night.
This more profound and more restful sleep contributes to lower blood pressure, elevated mood, and increased energy. 69% of people feel that more access to nature, daylight, and fresh air has a positive effect on their mental well-being. 71% of people report that daylight positively affects their stress levels. Research by Cornell University found that people exposed to natural light experienced 51% less eyestrain, 63% fewer headaches, and 56% less drowsiness. One study found that over 60% of people believe that natural light is the single most important attribute in a home.
Some homeowners might need to hear a second opinion or prefer to do a little more research. We have Design and Product Advisors who would be more than happy to virtually sit down and discuss the features and benefits of our skylights. We can also outline the differences between venting skylights, fixed skylights, and tubular skylights. For installation assistance, we have an array of installation videos to review. For hands-on training, we have opened Pro Partner Academies and offer a mobile installation van in select areas, or you can contact your local VELUX Sales Rep.
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