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VELUX sun tunnels are popular for many reasons. They’re easy to install, simple to maintain and, of course, their ability to allow light into the home through a tunnel built into the property.

Although they need little cleaning, you will have a few little tasks to complete when dealing with things like dust, dirt etc.

So, how do you keep up with the cleaning to keep your sun tunnel in good condition? Check out the guide below to find out more!

Table of contents

Why do sun tunnels need cleaning?

Usually, sun tunnels by VELUX need little cleaning. This will depend on how well the installation of your sun tunnel has been.

Poor installation of a sun tunnel not only risks how well the tunnel can deliver light. It also causes a higher increased build-up of dirt.

For example, if the sun tunnel has a loose or un-sealed tube end, you must regularly maintain it or re-install it.

The usual suspects causing an unclean sun tunnel (if installed poorly) can be flys, cobwebs and dust.

How to clean a VELUX sun tunnel

First and foremost, make sure you’re all set with the appropriate cleaning tools and equipment needed.

Note: If the sun tunnel is too high to reach, contact a professional cleaner to complete the task safely.

What you will need

Note: If unsure, check manufacturer instructions for removal and re-installation after cleaning the components.

Step one: Remove the diffuser

See our guide for how to remove this here.

Step two: Grab your cleaning soap and water

Using cleaning soap and water, clean the sun tunnel glass accordingly. This will loosen any debris and dirt.

Step three: Wash the exterior glass pane, flashing, tube and ceiling ring separately.

If needed, repeat until all separate parts are clean.

Step four: Rinse the clean components separately and dry them with a microfibre cloth

When the components are clean, rinse separately with clean water and dry with a microfibre cloth.

Note: If possible, you can leave components to air dry.

Step five: Clean the glass using glass cleaner

Clean the glass with the glass cleaner for a final shine.

Step six: Put the components back together

Reinstall the component(s) as needed.

There you have it! A newly cleaned, shinier VELUX sun tunnel.

Sun tunnel example on a home from Roofing Superstore

How to remove a VELUX sun tunnel diffuser

There are two ways to remove a diffuser from a VELUX sun tunnel. The method used will depend on when the sun tunnel was installed. If your VELUX sun tunnel was installed after mid-2015, you can proceed to step four. For those installed before mid-2015, here are the steps as follows.

Step one: Remove the ceiling ring

Rotate the ceiling ring clockwise or anti-clockwise to gently remove it from the frame.

Step two: Check the code on the ‘data plate’ piece

Once the ring has been removed, you should now be able to see the ‘data plate’ piece.

The following characters will potentially be found on said plate, followed by 010 or 014, which will determine how to remove the pane:

  • TWR
  • TWF
  • TLR
  • TLF

Step three: Check the code to see if manufacturing was before or after 2012

If the following part of the code is 2010 or 2010E (meaning installation was before 2012), the pane will be held in place by four white tabs. These rotate away from the pane.

Note: If there is a rubber seal around the pane, you may need to tap the pane a few times to loosen the grip of the rubber seal around it.

Alternatively, if the final part of the code is 2010E1 (meaning installation between the end of 2011 and mid-2015), the pane should have four lugs on. These should be pinned in place by grey clips. You will need to loosen these clips, then rotate the pane anti-clockwise to release the pane from the frame.

Step four: Check the sun tunnel for any of the codes below

If your sun tunnel has any of the codes below and 0K10 or 0K14 2010, there should be no ceiling ring. This is because recent designs of sun tunnels by VELUX enable simple removal. All thanks to rotating the component anti-clockwise.

  • TWR
  • TWF
  • TLR
  • TLF

After cleaning the diffuser, re-insert it using the steps in reverse for a smooth and simple installation.

Do you have a different type of VELUX window? Check out our guide for how to clean a VELUX window.

Alternatively, if you need new VELUX windows for your property, check out our VELUX windows price list to find the right replacement for your budget.

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