The Whats and Whys of Using Passive Solar Design

When people hear the term “solar energy”, they usually think about installing solar panels, inverters, and batteries to collect solar energy and use it to power their property’s electrical systems. But, while this is a common and highly effective way to harness the power of the sun, it isn’t the only option available. You can also work with a company that offers house renovation services and use their expertise to incorporate passive solar design elements into your property.


What Is Passive Solar Design?

This design type uses the building’s site, materials, and window placement to maintain the ideal indoor temperature and minimize energy use. The Passive design is ideal for properties in Northeast Albuquerque, New Mexico, as well as the surrounding areas since it allows homeowners to make use of the year-round sunshine that they can access for free. However, passive design has no borders — regardless of where you live, you can use passive design to heat and cool your property.


The Benefits of Using Passive Solar Design

One of the biggest benefits of passive design is that you can keep your property cool during summer and warm during winter while keeping your energy costs to a minimum. You might spend a bit more up front on the house renovation services, but the project will pay for itself and allow you to enjoy bigger savings down the road.

Of course, it’s not just about saving money. Through passive design, you can reduce your carbon footprint and do your part in saving the environment — without having to sacrifice your family’s comfort.


Passive Solar Design Elements That You Can Use

There are many ways to incorporate the passive solar design into your property; the only thing you should do is choose the methods that are suitable for your home as well as your local climate. One common method is to install awnings on south-facing windows, ensuring that one protrudes to half the corresponding window’s height. By doing so, you can block the sun’s rays during summer while allowing natural sunlight to stream into your house during winter.

If you’re doing a major renovation, you can also determine the direction of the daytime breeze then place windows on the wall facing the breeze and another set of windows on the opposite wall. This promotes cross ventilation and helps keep your property cool during daytime.

Installing a thermal chimney can also be a good idea. This type of chimney takes advantage of the fact that warm air rises, and it comes with a high exterior outlet that allows hot air to exit the house. It also has a low vent to allow cooler air to be drawn into the interior space.


Get in Touch with Us

Passive solar design is one of your best options if you’d like to reduce your energy consumption and keep your utility costs low. Don’t worry since incorporating this design into your house renovation services plan can be easy, especially if you hire professionals like Euro Fe. We are known for our world-class house renovation services, but we can also assist you with passive solar design renovations and help you create a property that will stay cool or warm without consuming a lot of energy. Learn more about our professional house renovation services by giving us a call today!