New VELUX product: Lightweight solar-powered outdoor roller blind SSS

The assortment of exterior shading for VELUX roof windows is being expanded this year with an elegant, design-oriented, and at the same time sustainable solution that offers the same functionality as a classic aluminum exterior roller shutter at a lower price. The new lightweight solar-powered exterior roller shutter from VELUX combines the advantages of both a roller shutter and an awning.

Currently, every fifth European faces the unpleasant overheating of their interior during summer heatwaves. Regulations also require reducing energy consumption for building operation. Therefore, it is necessary today to consider overheating solutions at least for south or west-facing windows. Exterior shading of windows is thus gradually becoming a natural part of projects.

In response to this growing demand, VELUX has added a third elegant solution to the existing two options – an exterior awning and an exterior roller shutter, which combines the advantages of both previous solutions. The lightweight exterior roller shutter VELUX SSS is provided exclusively with a comfortable solar-powered remote control, which aligns with user preferences.

The innovation thus contributes to sustainability in two ways. It naturally prevents overheating of the interior, thereby saving energy needed for cooling. At the same time, it is completely energy self-sufficient and utilizes sunlight as a renewable energy source.

More effective than an awning, cheaper and more elegant than a roller shutter

Until now, there were only two variants of exterior shading accessories for VELUX roof windows. The simpler option is an exterior awning made of translucent mesh that reflects sunlight and reduces indoor temperature while still allowing light to enter and maintaining the view from the window. The comprehensive solution is a robust exterior roller shutter made of maintenance-free aluminum that withstands even the harshest weather conditions. This roller shutter is not only effective in protecting against heat but also provides complete blackout, dampens noise from rain and hail, protects privacy, and contributes to thermal insulation of the roof window in winter.

Since August 2020, a third solution has been available – lightweight solar-powered exterior roller shutter VELUX SSS. It combines the most desired functions of both existing solutions, namely protection against heat and the ability to darken the interior. It also helps reduce noise from rain (noise reduction of 7 dB) and, thanks to its solar power, has a very convenient remote control with quiet operation and smooth positioning. Compared to a classic solar-powered exterior roller shutter, it is significantly more cost-effective. However, it is not as robust a solution; instead, it attracts attention with its modern, lightweight design.

Sturdy and maintenance-free material doesn't let light through

The lightweight solar-powered exterior roller shutter is very weather-resistant and requires no maintenance. It is made from a sturdy polyester fabric coated with PVC and reinforced with aluminum slats 43 mm wide. The fabric does not allow light to pass through, is UV resistant, and does not degrade.

The upper cover, side cover plates, and bottom plate are made of painted aluminum in gray color (NCS S 7500-N). The bottom part and side bars are made from gray tinted plastic (NCS S 7500-N). The upper cover is integrated into the window, and the roller shutter hides within it when not in use. The solar battery that provides power is also integrated into the upper part of the frame.

Easy installation even on older windows

Thanks to the solar power, the new SSS roller shutter can be easily installed on older VELUX roof windows. The recommended roof slope for installation is 15-85°. When installing lightweight exterior roller shutters on window combinations, a minimum distance between frames must be observed: for vertical combinations 250 mm and for horizontal combinations 18 mm.

The lightweight exterior roller shutter SSS is also fully compatible with other VELUX products and can be combined, for example, with an insect screen and all interior shading accessories.

Attractive design

The shutter with its elegant slim frame beautifully fits into the roof. Especially in combination with black roofing, it creates a visually cohesive whole. The photovoltaic cell is discreetly integrated into the upper frame.

Upgraded motor with quiet operation

The power supply is ensured by a new photovoltaic cell. Charging works based on daylight, thus being completely reliable in any weather. Compared to the previous model, the battery capacity has increased by 51%, allowing a fully charged battery to perform 200 operations without needing a recharge.

The new tubular motor is more powerful and energy-efficient. Its operation is faster and smoother, with softer end stops. It allows precise positioning of the roller shutter, and users will especially appreciate the quiet operation. Compared to the SSL outdoor roller shutter motor, the noise of the SSS motor has been reduced by 7-11 dB.

Easy and secure control

The lightweight exterior roller shutter SSS is operated using a simple remote control, which is included in the package and is pre-paired with the shutter from the factory. The wall-mounted controller has only three buttons with functions to open/close/stop.

The remote communicates on the io-homecontrol® platform, whose security is ensured by encrypted radio communication. Communication takes place at a frequency of 868 MHz, ensuring the proper functioning of the system and reducing interference from other electronic devices in the household. Products labeled io-homecontrol® communicate with each other and enhance comfort, security, and energy savings.

Preparation for smart home

For even greater comfort and automatic functionality, the lightweight exterior roller shutter can be integrated into a smart home. The new product is compatible with the VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO intelligent system, which automatically ensures a healthy indoor environment. Smart sensors continuously monitor the indoor temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels, controlling roof windows, roller shutters, and blinds based on the measured data. Using the VELUX ACTIVE mobile app, the products can be controlled from anywhere.

When integrating the lightweight exterior roller shutter SSS into the VELUX ACTIVE system, it is possible to set an extra quiet operation with a slowed-down motor.

More information at www.velux.cz/lehka-venkovni-roleta