General guidelines for passive solar design?

Question

I am going to design and build a small house and want to use passive solar building techniques. I know south-facing windows and a thermal wall are main components, but what else should I be thinking about in the design? Any good references or suggestions? thanks....

Answer 1

go with the first answer

Answer 2

shape/ Layout: Round, octagon, and squares are good shapes to use. These will give you the maximum amount of volume for the least amount of perimeter. Less perimeter means less surface area for heat to be lost. Although if you have a "long side" make sure it is facing south.  

Framing: The best, simplest designs are saltboxs (http://www.homeconcepts.ca/home-plans/ho... and "Shed" types roofs (http://www.solcomhouse.com/pass.jpg)

Try to minimize overhangs on the south facing wall so they don't block out the sun too much.

Trees: If you are worried about overheating in the summer, plant deciduous trees in from of your window. That way, in the summer they will shade your windows, and in the winter they will allow sunlight in. On the same note, keeping trees in close locality to your house will reduce heat loss due to wind and weather. Just make sure they aren't blocking those south facing windows during the winter.

Insulating shudders or curtains to close during the night.

Thermal mass: Make sure the thermal mass is receiving the direct sunlight. A floating slab on a rubble trench foundations is much better than a basements and regular stem walls.

Alternative building methods: Some alternative building methods are way cheaper, and often more efficient than conventional housing. These include cob, cord wood, and straw bale houses.

Insulation insulation insulation.