Passive solar design is a method of building homes that utilizes the natural heat and light from the sun to create a sustainable and energy-efficient living space. By strategically positioning windows, insulation and thermal mass, passive solar homes can stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer without the need for additional heating or cooling systems. Additionally, passive solar design often incorporates other sustainable features such as rainwater harvesting and sustainable materials. In this blog post, we will explore the principles of passive solar design and the benefits it can provide, as well as examples of passive solar homes and tips for incorporating passive solar design into your next home-building project. Whether you are a building a new home or renovating an existing one, consider passive solar design to reduce energy consumption, save money on utility bills and create a more comfortable and sustainable living space.

This personal home of mine, has the majority of the windows facing south, with larger roof overhangs, clear story windows, with staggered stud walls on the main level and closed cell foam insulation throughout, and radiant barrier sheathing.

We enjoy the gorgeous views and massive amount of free daylight all year long, steps were also taken to add natural daylight into every room of the house.

The tile in the primary bedroom and bath as well as the guest bath floors are heated to give more warmth with less energy consumption. We used a hybrid electric tank water heater that uses a heat pump to heat water and dehumidify the air at the same time saving energy and conditioning air at the same time.

The key to passive solar success is the position of the home, to allow the sun to help when needed but large enough roof overhangs to block the rays in the summer! The use of windows that are as large as you can fit and afford also positioned on the south facing walls is a necessary component for use of the suns energy when its cold.

If any of this is important to you and you would like to learn more or you're looking for a general contractor that understands what it takes to create a truly comfortable home reach out to us, and see if we are a fit to build or renovate your dream home.