Solatube Light Add-On Kit

The Solatube Light Add-On Kit transforms existing tubular daylighting systems into 24/7 lighting solutions. Instead of punching another hole in the ceiling for a separate light fixture, this kit integrates electric lighting inside the Solatube tube itself. The polished aluminum bracket mounts inside existing 10-inch or 14-inch Solatube systems, supporting standard E26 medium-base bulbs up to 23 watts.

For Montana contractors dealing with long winter nights and clients who want clean ceilings, this solves a real problem. Natural light disappears by 4:30 PM in December. This kit keeps those same Solatube fixtures functional after dark.

Installation Requirements and Compatibility

The kit works with Solatube 160 DS (10-inch), 290 DS (14-inch), and 750 DS commercial models. Installation complexity rates as moderate — you need electrical wiring knowledge. The process involves mounting the lamp bracket inside the tubing, installing the conduit assembly and junction box, connecting to 120V power, then installing your choice of bulbs.

The 10-inch 160 DS takes one lamp. The 14-inch 290 DS handles up to two. That’s enough light for hallways, bathrooms, or laundry rooms — the spaces where Solatubes typically go.

The kit includes the lamp bracket, conduit assembly, junction box connection, and mounting hardware. Light bulbs come separately. Contractors need to handle the electrical connection — the kit doesn’t plug into an outlet.

Performance and Applications

The system accepts LED, CFL, or incandescent bulbs. LEDs make the most sense — lower heat output inside the tube, longer life, better efficiency. The polished aluminum housing distributes light effectively through the diffuser.

Common applications include residential hallways, closets, laundry rooms, master and guest bathrooms, kitchens, and family rooms. Basically anywhere you’d install a Solatube for daytime lighting but still need electric light at night.

Solatube backs the electrical components for 5 years on most models, 3 years on smart LED components. The daylighting components carry their standard 10-year warranty.

Customer ratings average 4.8 stars across 525 reviews on Eco Building Products, with positive feedback on effectiveness as a nighttime light source. Amazon shows 5 stars from limited reviews, with users confirming it provides sufficient night lighting.

Contractor Verdict

The Light Add-On Kit delivers exactly what it promises — electric lighting through your existing Solatube without adding ceiling clutter. It maintains clean ceiling aesthetics by combining daylighting and electric lighting in one unit.

At 23 watts max per lamp, it won’t match a dedicated ceiling fixture for raw light output. But for the typical Solatube locations — hallways, bathrooms, laundry rooms — it provides adequate task lighting. The real value is avoiding another ceiling penetration and maintaining that clean look clients want.

For Montana’s long winter nights, this kit turns a seasonal daylighting system into year-round illumination. It’s particularly useful for retrofitting existing Solatube installations where clients realize they need nighttime lighting after living with natural light only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install LED bulbs in the Light Add-On Kit?

Yes. The kit accepts LED, CFL, and incandescent bulbs with E26 medium bases up to 23 watts. LED bulbs work best — they produce less heat inside the tube and last longer than other options.

Does this work with all Solatube models?

No. The Light Add-On Kit only works with 160 DS (10-inch), 290 DS (14-inch), and 750 DS commercial models. Check your existing Solatube model before ordering.

What’s included and what do I need to buy separately?

The kit includes the lamp bracket, conduit assembly, junction box connection, and mounting hardware. You need to buy light bulbs separately. You also need an existing Solatube Daylighting System — this is an add-on, not a complete system.

How many lights can each tube size handle?

The 10-inch 160 DS model supports one lamp. The 14-inch 290 DS model supports up to two lamps. Both configurations use standard E26 medium-base bulbs.

What’s the warranty coverage?

Electrical components carry a 5-year warranty for most models, or 3 years for smart LED electrical components. The daylighting components maintain their separate 10-year warranty.