Solatube Energy Care Optima 160 DS User manual

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
1
Solatube® Brighten Up® Series
Solatube® 160 DS Daylighting System
Solatube® 290 DS Daylighting System
Installation Instructions
Parts List * Quantity
1
Dome with Raybender® 3000 Technology (1)
a. Shock Inner Dome*†
2Roof Flashing (pitched or no pitch) (1)
3
Top Tube Assembly including: Dome Ring, Dome
Ring Seal, Spectralight® Innity Top Tube with
Angle Adapter.
(1)
4Spectralight® Innity 16 in (400 mm) Extension
Tube (not included in some kits, see label on box) (2)
5
Bottom Tube Assembly including: Spectralight®
Innity Bottom Tube with Angle Adapter, Ceiling
Ring
(1)
6Effect Lens (1)
7Diffuser (1)
Seal and Fasteners
a. Dome Ring Screws - #8 X 1 in (25 mm) (5)
8
b. LightTracker™ Reector (1)
c. Flashing Screws - #10 X 2 in (51 mm) (8)
d. Roof Sealant (1)
e. Expansion Joint Seal (1)
f. Tube Screws - #8 X 9/16 in (14 mm) (10)
g. Foil Tape - 2 in (51 mm) X 18 ft (5.5 m) roll (1)
h. Drywall Screws - #6 X 1 5/8 in (40 mm) (4)
3
Required Tools:
Keyhole Saw
Saber or Reciprocating Saw
Hammer
Flat Bar
Utility Knife
Tape Measure
Caulking Gun
Screw Gun with Phillips Head
Lumber Crayon
Magnetic Compass
Required Safety Equipment
4
5
2
7
6
8f
8d
8b
8e
8a
8c
1a
1
8h
*†High Velocity Hurricane Zones: Shock Inner Dome must be installed
with dome. To meet HVHZ requirements, use a six inch no pitch
ashing or a pitched ashing with a four inch turret extension.
8g
*Components shown not included in all kits, see label on box.

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
2
WARNING
Daylighting Systems Installation Tips
These instructions are a step-by-step guide for the installation of a Solatube Daylighting System in the following conditions.
For other roof types, please contact your Solatube International representative for additional information.
Built Up Flat Roof - Single Ply/Membrane - Asphalt Shingle - Low/No Pitched - Pitched -
Prefabricated Curbs - Metal Roof Panels
Please refer to the installation tips for the appropriate product below:
Do not proceed with the installation until you have read the entire instructions, including these warnings.
(Use of materials or methods not authorized by Solatube International will result in an invalid warranty.)
Solatube International, Inc. (seller) assumes no responsibility or obligation whatsoever for the failure of an architect, contractor, installer, or building
owner to comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, electrical codes, energy codes, re and safety codes and requirements, roof
warranties and adequate safety precautions. Installation of this product should be attempted only by individuals skilled in the use of the tools and
equipment necessary for installation. Protect yourself and all persons and property during installation. If you have any doubt concerning your competence
or expertise, consult a qualied expert before proceeding.
Install at your own risk!
Solatube product installations may be dangerous and include the potential for death, personal injury and property damage. The hazardous
conditions include but are not limited to the following:
 During installation, the Solatube Daylighting System’s reective tubes may focus sunlight, causing intense heat or re. Remove
protective lm only after the parts have been installed. Prior to and during installation, do not leave tubes in contact with
combustible materials or unattended, especially near direct sunlight. Avoid skin burns.
 Solatube Daylighting System and Solar Star products may have sharp edges. Always wear leather or canvas gloves while handling and installing
products.
 Solatube product installations require climbing and working at dangerous heights, including on ladders, scaffolding, roofs and in attic spaces.
Risk of death, personal injury and property damage may result from a fall, or from falling objects. Use extreme caution to minimize risk of
accidental injury, including, but not limited to the following procedures:
 Clear area below your work space of all people, animals and other items.
 Avoid working on surfaces that are slippery or wet.
 Use foot-wear with excellent traction.
 Use only strong, well supported ladders.
 Work only in calm dry weather.
 When in the attic, ensure that your weight is supported at all times with structurally sound framing; drywall material is not designed to
carry a person’s weight.
 To reduce the risk of re, electric shock, and personal injury, basic safety precautions should always be followed when using electric tools,
including always wearing safety goggles or other suitable eye protection, and ensuring work area is clear of all electrical wires, gas pipes, water
pipes, and other obstacles.
 When working in the attic or other dusty areas, use of a mask or respirator is recommended to avoid lung irritation. Attic spaces may be dark,
conned, and subject to extreme temperatures. Beware of sharp protruding objects. Do not attempt installation without having someone within
range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid if necessary.
 Solatube products are not designed to withstand the weight of a person, tools or other objects. Walking or placing objects on the system could
cause personal injury and property damage. If the product is damaged, the structural capacity may be weakened; therefore the system should
be repaired immediately. For safe installation and use, do not deviate from these installation instructions.
 Additional support is recommended for long vertical and all horizontal tube runs. Review local building requirements and consult with
appropriate building code ofcial for proper material and placement of additional support. Avoid galvanic reaction (corrosion) if dissimilar metals
are used.
Electrical Components
 Before installing, servicing, or cleaning unit, switch power off at service panel and lock service panel to prevent power from becoming switched
on accidentally. When the service disconnecting means cannot be locked, securely fasten a prominent warning device such as a tag to the
service panel.
Re-Roong
 Solatube products require special care if removed for re-roong. In order to ensure proper removal and re-installation, please contact your
Solatube International representative.

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
3
Solar Star Attic Ventilation Installation Tips
 Keep Solar Star solar panels covered until product is mounted and sealed to roof. Cover solar panel whenever motor, fan, or unit is to be
serviced. Fan blade is controlled by the solar panel and may become operational when panel is exposed to sunlight.
 Solar Star products are designed for general ventilation purposes only. Do not exhaust any hazardous materials or gases such as ammable,
explosive or incendiary materials.
 Solar Star products have an unguarded fan blade. Do not use Solar Star products in areas that are easily accessible.
Caution
 Carbon monoxide may be drawn into a house or attic space with the operation of Solar Star products if fuel-burning equipment is not
serviced or monitored regularly. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be hazardous to your health and may cause
death. Fuel-burning equipment must have proper ventilation, Solar Star products are not designed to provide ventilation for fuel-burning
products.
Light Add-On Kit Installation Tips
 This product is to be installed by qualied electricians only. Disconnect power before installation.
 “FOR USE IN NON-FIRE-RATED INSTALLATIONS ONLY.”
 Thermally protected “TYPE IC” (insulation may contact housing).
 “ACCESS ABOVE CEILING REQUIRED.”
 “SUITABLE FOR DAMP LOCATIONS.” Use only as a component of Solatube Daylighting System products.
 “MIN. 60°C SUPPLY CONDUCTORS.”
 Intended for installation with ½ in (12.7mm) minimum spacing from the xture to cavity surfaces (side wall and overhead building member)
and 1 in (25.4mm) minimum spacing to adjacent xtures.
 Blinking light may indicate improper lamp wattage or type, or insulation is too close to xture, or other condition causing overheating.
Caution
 Risk of re and electrical shock. Most dwellings built before 1985 have supply wire rated 60° C.
 To reduce the risk of re, use only:
 Fluorescent Lamps, Medium Base - 23 Watt Maximum, Maximum Overall Length (MOL) 4 3/4 in (120 mm)
 Compact Fluorescent (4 Pin Quad Tube) 26 Watt only
 Minimum thickness of metal tubing is 0.018 in (0.47mm)
Daylighting Systems Installation Tips (Continued)
 Allow at least 2-3 hours for the installation, particularly if this is your rst installation.
 During the day, turn off all the lights in the room to see how much natural light comes in through the windows, and determine the best position for the
Solatube Daylighting System. To light a specic area, place the system over the area, not in the center of the room. This will prevent the desired
area from being shaded by tall objects in the room.
 Measure the distance between the roof and the ceiling. If you don’t have enough tubing, contact your Solatube International representative
for additional tubing.
 Avoid roof locations shaded by trees, ridges and chimneys, or near water channels or valleys. Also avoid roof areas with obstructions such
as re sprinklers, HVAC equipment, gas, water or drain pipes, air ducts or ues and make sure that the roof is adequate to endure an
installation without damaging its waterproong properties or weakening the building structure.
 All adhesives, seals and tapes are recommended to be applied to a clean and dry surface at a minimum of 70°F (21°C) for maximum
performance.
 Foil tape contains a pressure sensitive adhesive and pressure must be applied at all seams for proper bonding. Foil tape is not intended for
use as structural support of the extension tubes. For structural integrity use manufacturer supplied fasteners on all overlapping extension
tube joints.
 Uninstalled product that is stored and exposed to excessive heat and or humidity can experience damage. Store product prior to installation
in a cool dry place.
Daylight Dimmer Installation Tips
 Install Solatube Daylight Dimmer only on a properly aligned Solatube Daylighting System.
 Use only UL recognized components approved for this listing.
Ventilation Add-On Kit Installation Tips
See Ventilation Add-On Kit installation instructions for tips.

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
4
1/2 in (12.7 mm)
Roof Underlayment
4Remove Roof Shingles
Center on Nail and Trace Inside Flashing Base
Roof Underlayment
5
Mark Ceiling and Roof Location Between Joists and Rafters Using Nails. Cut Ceiling Hole.
Minimum clearance of 5 3/8 in (140 mm) for 160 DS and 7 3/8 in (190 mm) for 290 DS between nail hole center
and joist.
2
1
3Cut Roof Opening
Set Flashing
Nail
Nail
Nail
Cut Line; 1/2 in
(13 mm) Outside
Traced Line
Traced Line
ac
b
b
160 DS
Ø 10 3/4 in (275 mm)
290 DS
Ø 14 3/4 in (375 mm)
Ceiling
Roof
a
Roof Sealant
(3/8 in (10 mm) thick)
160 DS
5 3/8 in (140 mm)
290 DS
7 3/8 in (190 mm)

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
5
7
Align Dome Ring and Flashing Holes
8Align Top Tube Angle with Ceiling Opening 9Remove and Tape Top Tube
Tape all seams.
6Fasten Flashing to Roof and Replace Shingles
Roof Underlayment
10 Fasten Top Tube to Flashing*
*For HVHZ dip screw threads in sealant
11 Dome Installation
Reective side of LightTracker™ Reector faces South in
Northern Hemisphere (North in Southern Hemisphere). Align
and snap dome into place engaging all four snaps.
Shock Inner
Dome for HVHZ
LightTracker™
Reector
Flashing Screw
Dome Ring Screw
a
b
c
a
b
Remove Protective Liner
Remove Protective Liner
b
a

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
6
Insert bottom tube
assembly into top
tube; do not tape
seam.*
Apply pressure to
tape for proper
bonding
Minimum Overlap
at Tube Seams
1 1/2 in (38 mm)
cd
h
Foil
Tape
Assemble and Install Tube Run
Use notches to create a tapered tube.
12 Insert Bottom Tube
Align and measure tube run.
Minimum Overlap
at Tube Seams
1 1/2 in (38 mm)
Minimum Overlap
at Tube Seams
1 1/2 in (38 mm)
Tube length
measurements
should be equal.
Tube Screw Expansion Joint
Seal
a
b
ef
g
a
b
*Tape seam for commercial install with suspended ceiling.
Remove
Protective Liner
13

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
7
Fasten to Ceiling
Use drywall screws if fastening clamps do not engage ceiling.
For cold weather climates, apply latex caulking to ceiling ring
to minimize air transfer.
15 Install Effect Lens and Diffuser
14
Drywall screw if
necessary
Fastening Clamp
Cold Weather Option
Now you can enjoy the benets of your Solatube Daylighting System and
the high performance, natural lighting it provides.
16
ac
bd
a
b
c
Remove Protective Liner
Effect Lens
Diffuser
Please refer to the following section for a list of
alternative ashings and accessories.

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
8
Curb by Others (allow
for counter ashing
roong material)
1Apply Sealant to Curb
Install Cap on Curb
a
3Fasten Flashing to Curb
*For HVHZ apply 4 more screws to curb cap.
b
Curb Mounted Flashing Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
1290 DS (14 in/350 mm) Curb Mounted Flashing
(Inside Dimension 27 in (685 mm) X 27 in (685 mm)) (1)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1Roof Sealant (1)
2Flashing Screws #10 X 2 in (50 mm) (8)
27 in (685 mm)
inside dimension
27 in (685 mm)
inside dimension
Flashing Screw
2

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
9
1Apply Sealant to Underside of Curb Cap
2Install Insulation
Apply Foil Tape to Seams
Curb Cap Flashing Insulation
Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
1290 DS (14 in/350 mm) Curb Insulation (4)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1Roof Sealant (1)
2Foil Tape (1)
b
Apply matte side of
insulation to Curb
Cap surface.
3
a

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
10
3Set Base Flashing
a
Roof Sealant
(3/8 in (10 mm) thick)
b
1Remove Tiles. Center on Nail and Trace Inside
Flashing Base.
Nail
2
Traced Line
Nail
Cut Line; 1/2 in
(13 mm) Outside
Traced Line
4Fasten Flashing to Roof
b
a
Flashing
Screw
Universal Tile Flashing Installation Instructions Appendix
(with Base Flashing)
Parts List Quantity
1Tile Flashing (Pitched or No Pitch version) (1)
2Base Flashing (Pitched or No Pitch version) (1)
2Aluminum “L” bracket (4)
3#8 X 1/4 in (6 mm) screws (8)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1Roof Sealant (1)
2Flashing Screws—#10 X 2 in (50 mm) screws (8)
3Tile Grinder (1)
Note: These instructions are for non-HVHZ areas only. Contact a Solatube
International representative for recommendations in HVHZ areas.
Caution: The use of Portland Cement based mastic, grout, or alkaline
materials will cause damage to the aluminum ashing.
Cut Roof Opening

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
11
Set Universal Tile Flashing
Bend front edge of Universal Tile Flashing to t shape of roof
tiles.
5 6Fasten Universal Tile Flashing to Base Flashing
b
Base
Flashing
#8 X 1/4 in
(6 mm) Screw
Universal
Tile
Flashing
a
8
Secure Flashing to Tile
c
Flashing
Edge
L-bracket
b
a
7Cut and Replace Roof Tiles
#8 X 1/4 in
(6 mm) Screw

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
12
3Apply Sealant to Roof and Flashing
Roof Sealant 3/4
in (20 mm) thick
a
Roof Sealant 3/4
in (20 mm) thick
b
4Set Flashing
2
Cut Roof Opening
Cut Line; 1/2 in
(13 mm) Outside
Traced Line
Flashing
Perimeter
Traced Line
1Center on Nail. Trace Inside and Outside
Flashing Perimeter.
Nail
a
b
Nail
Flat Roof Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
1Roof Flashing (no pitch) (1)
2Flashing Screws - #10 X 2 in (51 mm) (8)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1Straight Edge (1)
2Roof Sealant (1)

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
13
5Fasten Flashing to Roof
a
b
6Apply Sealant and Spread Evenly Using Straight
Edge
a
b
Roof Sealant 3/4
in (20 mm) thick
Straight Edge
Flashing Insulator Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
1Flashing Insulator (1)
2Foil Tape (8)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1None
1Center Flashing Insulator on Flashing Base.
Apply pressure to
foil tape for proper
bonding.
Flashing Screw
b
2Apply Foil Tape.
a
Warning: Do not expose Flashing Insulator to direct ame.
Return to main instruction set to complete ashing installation.
a
b

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
14
a
Turret Extension Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
1Turret Extension 2 in (50 mm) or 4 in (100 mm) (1)
21/4 in (6 mm) screws (4)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1Roof Sealant (1)
1Apply Sealant to Flashing and Inside of Turret
Extension
a
b
Place Turret Extension over Flashing and Fasten
bc
1/4 in (6 mm)
Screw
2
a
a
b
2Secure Dome Edge Protection Band
With top tube installed, align with dome ring spacers and snap
into place.
Dome Edge Protection Band Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
1Dome Edge Protection Band (1)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1None
Place Dome Edge Protection Band Over Flashing
Bend tabs up prior to
installation
a
b
1

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
15
0-90 Degree Extension Tube Installation Instructions Appendix
Parts List Quantity
10-90 Degree Extension Tube (1)
2Tube Screws - #8 X 3/4 in (10 mm) (4)
3Foil Tape - 2 in (51 mm) X 6 ft (2 m) (4)
Additional Materials and Tools Quantity
1None
1Install 0-90 Degree Extension Tube
Install only between the top tube and an extension tube or two extension tubes.
cab
Foil Tape Tube Screw
Apply pressure
to tape for
proper bonding
Minimum overlap
at tube seams
1 1/2 in (38 mm)
Additional structural support may be required for
horizontal tube runs. Consult local building code.

For the most current Installation Instructions, please visit www.solatube.com/instructions
Solatube International, Inc. | 2210 Oak Ridge Way | Vista, CA 92081-8341 | www.solatube.com | T: 888.SOLATUBE
© 2014 Solatube International, Inc. Part No. 951780 v2.7
16
Not all items available for all markets. Contact your Solatube International representative for availability.
Solatube Brighten Up® Series Accessories
Add more function by upgrading your Solatube Daylighting System with any of these great accessories.
Metal Roof Installation Kit
Order this kit for installation of a Solatube 160 DS or 290 DS ashing onto a standing seam metal roof.
Universal Tile Flashing (for applications without base ashing)
The Universal Tile Flashing integrates seamlessly with most tile proles. The malleable ashing skirt, available with a pitched
or no pitch turret, easily adapts to the shape of the tile.
Light Add-On Kit
When equipped with a light add on kit, the Solatube Daylighting System provides the convenience of a switched light for
night time use. Available in an energy efcient compact uorescent design that meets California Title 24 requirements
and in a universal xture.
Daylight Dimmer
Because you don’t need 100% of the light 100% of the time, the innovative Solatube Daylight Dimmer easily controls the
amount of daylight entering a room with the convenience of a switch. Our patented variable buttery bafe controls the
light output.
Ventilation Add-On Kit
The Solatube 160 DS is available with an optional Ventilation Add-On Kit. When combined with this innovative accessory,
the 2-in-1 ceiling xture minimizes ceiling penetrations for a more attractive look.
Flashing Insulator
This insulating material helps to reduce condensation in cold climates when the ashing is exposed to a humid interior
space. The insulator is afxed to the ashing base and the top tube slips through the opening, which provides a seal
between the interior and metal ashing.
Dome Upgrade Kit
Upgrade an older Solatube product to take advantage of Solatube’s patented Raybender™ 3000 Technology. The dome
upgrade kit is installed without removing previous ashing or tubing.
Re-Roong Recommendations
Solatube products require special care if removed for re-roong. Refer to the Solatube Re-Roong Recommendations to
ensure proper removal and re-installation.