Let Natural Light Work for Your Budget
With energy prices continuing to rise and more homeowners looking for ways to make their homes more sustainable, one question keeps coming up:
Can skylights actually help reduce electricity bills?
The short answer is yes. When properly chosen and installed, skylights can make a noticeable difference in both lighting and heating costs. In this article, we’ll walk through how skylights contribute to energy savings, which features to look for, and how to get the most out of your investment.
How Skylights Help Reduce Energy Use
1. They Cut Down on Artificial Lighting
Natural light is free, and a good skylight can brighten your home during the day without ever touching a switch. When installed in the right areas, a skylight can reduce your reliance on electric lights in:
- Kitchens
- Hallways
- Living rooms
- Bathrooms
Lighting accounts for about 10% of a typical home’s electricity use, so even a partial reduction can add up over time.
2. They Help Warm Your Home in Winter
Skylights, especially those facing north, can act as passive solar heaters. They allow sunlight to enter during the day and naturally warm the space. This can help you:
- Use less heating in winter
- Maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature
- Improve energy efficiency without ongoing effort
The result? A home that feels cosier and costs less to heat.
3. They Improve Airflow in Summer
Venting skylights (including solar-powered models) allow hot air that rises to the ceiling to escape. This creates a cooling effect, often referred to as the “stack effect,” which can:
- Reduce the need for air conditioning
- Improve airflow and ventilation
- Lower humidity and stale air buildup
When paired with a roof ventilation system, the cooling effect is even more noticeable.
Long-Term Benefits of Natural Lighting
The advantages of installing skylights go beyond just saving on your next power bill. You’re also likely to see:
- Increased property value
- Better indoor air quality
- A more enjoyable, natural living space
- A smaller environmental footprint
- Health and wellbeing benefits linked to natural light exposure
Simply put, homes with plenty of daylight feel brighter, healthier, and more welcoming.
Choosing the Right Energy-Efficient Skylight
Not all skylights are built the same. To get the most benefit in a Melbourne home, look for:
Double-Glazed or Triple-Glazed Glass
Helps reduce heat loss in winter and prevent overheating in summer.
Low-E Coatings
Reflect unwanted infrared heat while still letting in visible light. Also reduces UV rays that can damage flooring and furniture.
Solar-Powered Options
These skylights come with built-in power for automated features like venting, blinds, and rain sensors – no wiring needed.
Internal Blinds or Shading
Blinds help control light levels and heat gain, especially in summer. Many models offer manual or remote-controlled options.
VELUX and Solatube both offer energy-rated models suited for the Australian climate.
How Much Can You Save?
Savings will vary depending on your home, roof orientation, and usage patterns, but here’s a general guide:
- Up to 10–20% savings on lighting energy
- Less use of heating and cooling systems
- Boost to your home’s energy rating for future resale
Over time, the cost of a quality skylight can be recovered through energy bill reductions and the added value to your home.
Tips for Maximising Efficiency
To get the most from your skylight installation:
- Choose the right orientation. North-facing for warmth, south-facing for consistent light without glare
- Avoid west-facing skylights unless you use blinds or tinted glazing
- Seal the skylight properly to prevent leaks and air gaps
- Work with experienced installers who understand Melbourne’s weather and roofing styles
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all skylights reduce energy bills?
No. Inexpensive or poorly installed skylights may increase heat loss or gain. Always choose models designed for thermal efficiency and professional installation.
Are tubular skylights energy-efficient?
Yes. Products like Solatube use reflective tubes to bring in daylight with little to no heat gain. They’re especially useful for interior rooms without direct roof access.
Which is better for savings – fixed or venting skylights?
Both have their benefits. Fixed skylights reduce lighting costs, while venting skylights also improve ventilation and cooling in summer.
Can I claim rebates or tax benefits?
Possibly. Depending on your location and whether it’s part of a renovation or upgrade, there may be government rebates or incentives. Check with your local council or programs like the Victorian Energy Upgrades scheme.
Why Choose The Skylight Shop?
We’ve been helping Melbourne homeowners make smart choices with natural lighting for years. Whether you’re after a stylish skylight for your kitchen, a ventilation solution for your bathroom, or a full energy-efficiency upgrade, we can help.
We supply and install top brands like VELUX and Solatube, and provide advice tailored to your home’s layout and needs.
👉 Request a free quote today and find out how much natural light could save you.