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How Does Passive Solar Work?

Passive solar is the harnessing of the suns' energy - light and heat - without the use of any mechanical devices. To understand how passive solar works, all you have to do is lay out in the sun: It warms you up and brightens your view. Passive solar design does the same for a house.

South-facing windows and skylights, building materials that absorb and retain heat (such as stone and brick), and efficient natural airflow are among the design features of a home that takes advantage of passive solar. The sun's energy enters a home, keeps it warm and bright during the day, and slowly dissipates at night. Passive solar can also be used to heat water: A swimming pool warmed by the hot summer sun is a perfect example of passive solar at work. Outdoor tanks can keep sun-warmed water stored for later use.

Using the sun's free energy reduces heating bills, electric lighting needs, and a homeowner's carbon footprint. While passive solar design is most appropriate for new construction, existing homes can be retrofitted to make better use of daylight and the sun's heat.

The US Department of Energy's Building Technologies Program offers tips on building and renovating with passive solar in mind http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/info/design/integratedbuilding/passive.html

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