Maximizing Energy Efficiency to Passive Solar House Design

In summary, the conversation discusses building a solar model house with specific requirements of maintaining room temperature, using cheap household items, and incorporating passive solar design. Suggestions are given to use mass, such as water in plastic bags, to store solar energy and prevent overheating. There are also recommendations for searching online for passive design software or building a model and adjusting mass until the desired temperature is achieved. The conversation also mentions the concept of "envelope houses" and provides a resource for further information. The person seeking help expresses gratitude for the advice and plans to conduct experiments in their climate.
  • #1
jotenvall
3
0
Excuse the English.. it is not my first language. Sorry if this topic doesn't fit theme of board.

How can build solar building model house? The temperature must stay within room temperature, outside. Any large divergence will take points off.. the time frame is eight thirty to nine thirty. The sun angles will is about 5 degrees to 18 degrees, from the horizontal. We have to use cheap household items, whatever that means.

Any tips? Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Search the web for passive solar design pages. There is a lot out there. You will need some mass to store the solar energy and prevent the space from over heating. Water in plastic bags will work. Too little mass and you get over heating, to much and and the space temperature doesn't get warm enough.Heat storage mass reduces temperature swings.

There are low cost Passive design software on line but there is a learning curve for any software. You can also trial and error. Build a model, add water mass. Record space temperature a 4 PM (hottest time of day). Add or subtract mass until maximum temperature at 4 PM is what is allowed.

Make sure temperature probe is out of direct sunlight.
 
  • #3
Look up "envelope house". Passive heating/cooling that incorporates solar warming and thermal masses. Large overhangs on the roofs of south-facing glass walls can prevent overheating in the summer while allowing the sun to shine in when the sun is low (colder weather).
 
  • #5

FAQ: Maximizing Energy Efficiency to Passive Solar House Design

What is passive solar house design?

Passive solar house design is an approach to designing and building homes that use the sun's energy to provide heating, cooling, and lighting. This is achieved through the strategic placement of windows, walls, and other building materials to take advantage of the sun's natural heat and light.

What are the benefits of passive solar house design?

The benefits of passive solar house design include reduced energy costs, improved indoor air quality, and a smaller carbon footprint. The use of natural sunlight and heat can also create a more comfortable and inviting living space.

How does passive solar house design work?

Passive solar house design works by utilizing the sun's energy to heat and cool the home. This is done through the use of south-facing windows to let in sunlight during the winter and shading devices to block sunlight during the summer. Thermal mass materials, such as concrete or brick, are also used to store and release heat as needed.

What are the key elements of passive solar house design?

The key elements of passive solar house design include orientation, insulation, ventilation, and thermal mass. The orientation of the home should be optimized to capture the most sunlight, while insulation helps to retain heat. Ventilation is important for regulating temperature and air quality, and thermal mass materials help to store and release heat.

Can passive solar house design be incorporated into existing homes?

Yes, passive solar house design principles can be incorporated into existing homes through renovations and upgrades. This may include adding south-facing windows, installing shading devices, and improving insulation and ventilation. However, the level of effectiveness may vary depending on the home's current design and layout.

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