by Garvin Nelson

Created on: October 31, 2008   Last Updated: November 09, 2008

So how do we incorporate passive solar design elements in to home design? Well what is solar design in the first place? I found this definition at littlesunlighthomes.com (1) which I think sums up passive solar design best:

Passive solar design:
the technology of heating and cooling a building naturally without the use of mechanical equipment. The orientation of the building, site selection, materials, and design features allow the home to collect, store and distribute the sun's heat in winter, block the sun during the summer, and provide for air circulation and natural day lighting."

So now we know what passive solar design is how do we go about planning the design. First thing you should do is research throughly. After educating yourself, you will be able to make better decisions on the features needed to build a passive solar home. There are some websites at the end of the essay that have more details on solar home design that what could be discussed here.

The following are features that will be present in passive solar home design:

Orientation: To the best of your ability should orient your home with its longest length in a east to west direction. This to allow a long wall to face in a southern direction to capture maximum solar radiation during the winter season. Depending on your location you may not be able to do this but there are ways to mitigate and a good architect will be able to design around this issue.

Insulation: A properly insulated building will prevent the loss of heat and cold. Thus less energy is needed to maintain a stable temperature. Proper insulation methods will cut energy costs to heat or cool a home by a minimum of 20%. This energy savings is obtained in a traditional dwelling design, and the energy cost savings would only be higher in those with passive solar enhancements.

Windows: Large windows on the south facing wall allows the sun's rays to enter during the winter months and warm the large thermal masses behind them. There is a ratio between floor space and window space that is best. Too large windows allow too much heat in and make living space uncomfortable, too small and not enough heat will trapped.

Overhangs and Shading: These features are to reduce heat gains during summer months but allow sun radiation to reach the through south facing windows during winter months. This also includes the careful choice of landscaping elements, in particular trees. On the south facing wall of the home deciduous vegetation shade during the summer

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