⚡Beginner
Passive Solar Design
Orienting and shaping buildings to capture heat in winter and stay cool in summer.
Passive solar design reduces fuel needs by using orientation, thermal mass, and shading.
Key Concepts
- —Winter solar gain and summer shading are complementary goals.
- —Thermal mass moderates day-night temperature swings.
- —Air sealing and insulation prevent heat loss more effectively than larger stoves.
- —Ventilation strategy must change by season and time of day.
Practical Guide
- 1.Orient primary glazing toward equator-facing direction in your hemisphere.
- 2.Use roof overhangs sized to block high summer sun and admit low winter sun.
- 3.Place thermal mass elements where direct sun can charge them.
- 4.Seal drafts around doors and windows before adding heating capacity.
- 5.Plant deciduous trees strategically for seasonal shade control.
References
- [1] Mollison, B. (1988). Permaculture: A designers' manual. Tagari Publications.
- [2] Ching, F. D. K. (2014). Building construction illustrated (5th ed.). Wiley.