passive solar

Question 1

building orientation

Answer 1

longest side facing north

Question 2

zoning

Answer 2

public at the front
private at the back

Question 3

ventilation

Answer 3

cross ventilation
low opening to catch summer breezes and vents at the tops of the ceiling to release hot air

Question 4

thermal mass

Answer 4

brick walls, concrete flooring, cladding, insulation and framework

Question 5

windows

Answer 5

75% on north
15% on east
5% on west
try for none on the south
double glazed windows

Question 6

insulation

Answer 6

ceiling insulation R4.1
wall insulation R2.8
under slab insulation R1.0

Question 7

insulative windows

Answer 7

PCV framing to mimimise heat loss
insulative blinds or curtains with pelmets

Question 8

eaves

Answer 8

block out the high summer sun and let in the winter sun

Question 9

sun angles

Answer 9

Summer high - 71
winter low - 24

Question 10

landscaping

Answer 10

deciduous trees on the north side
non-deciduous trees on the south to prevent winds and provide extra privacy

Question 11

prevailing winds

Answer 11

vegetation and orientation to block winds

Question 12

off grid power

Answer 12

solar panels on a 30 degree angle on the roof

Question 13

water source

Answer 13

drainage pipes and tanks should be strategically placed out of the way optimizing slopes in the design for water to run off.