Chapter 8 LO16: Describe How Passive Solar Design Technologies Can Be Applied To New Existing Buildings

Question 1

Explain briefly any 2 passive solar design techniques that can be applied to new and existing buildings

Answer 1

Any 2 descriptions from the following:

1. Orientation: Main glazed dayrooms orientated south (or within 15 degrees south) non habitable rooms towards north.
2. Windows to be approximately sized. To provide good day-lighting and prevent excessive heat loss/heat gain.
3. Use low emissivity glazing to reduce heat loss through windows.
4. Provide eaves overhangs / high thermal mass. It will absorb heat in winter and even out temperature fluctuations.
5. High levels of thermal insulation. Will reduce the heat loss of the building

Question 2

Describe any 2 passive solar design techniques that could be applied to the design of a new house.

Answer 2

Any 2 from:

1. Main glazed dayrooms to be orientated towards south (or within 15 degrees south) non-habitable rooms (bathrooms, stores etc) orientated towards north.
2. Windows to be approximately sized to provide good day lighting and also prevent excessive heat loss/heat gain.
3. Use low emissivity/double/triple glazing to reduce heat loss through windows.
4. Provide eaves overhangs/bris-soleil to reduce summer heat gain through windows.
5. Heavy construction/high thermal mass will absorb heat in winter to even out temperature fluctuations.
6. High level of thermal insulation will reduce the heat loss of the building.