The principles of passive solar heating, such as basic types of systems, their description, and the components making up any passive system are presented in this course. Sources of data for heating requirements and available solar radiation throughout the U.S are identified and discussed along with a method for estimating the rate of heat loss from a home. The use of these three inputs in a method for estimating performance of a passive heating system of specified size at a specified location is presented. The data retrieval and calculations are illustrated with numerous examples.

Topics: Passive Solar Heating Definition Components of a Passive Solar Heating System Basic Passive Solar Heating System Types Direct Gain, Thermal Storage Wall, Attached Sunspace Thermal Storage Roof, Convective Loop Inputs Needed to Estimate Size/Performance of a Passive Solar Heating System Heating requirements (degree days) during the heating season at the site of interest Information on the rate of heat loss from the house Available solar radiation at the site of interest Size and Performance Calculations for a Passive Solar System Choice of the Type(s) of Passive Solar Systems to Use Sizing Solar Storage Controls – Summer Shading of Passive Solar Glazing Construction Details.

Intended Audience: electrical, mechanical, civil, energy, chemical, environmental, construction,and industrial engineers. However, this course could appeal to engineers of other disciplines as well. 

Publication Source: Harlan H. Bengtson, PhD, PE