Using Passive Solar Energy to Heat Your Home More Effectively

The sun is a powerful source of energy to say the least. When you hear about solar power, you probably think of expensive panels, but there are ways to harness the power of the sun passively that are inexpensive or even completely free. If you are looking to be a better friend to the environment as well as your wallet, here are some tips for utilizing the sun for your energy needs.

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Choose Wall Colors that Optimize Heat Absorption

Darker colors absorb heat more effectively while lighter colors reflect it. To maximize the benefits of solar power for heating your home, the color you paint your walls can make a big difference. If you have rooms with south-facing windows – which bring in maximum sunlight—paint these walls a darker shade to absorb greater amounts of solar energy. This heat will continue to provide warmth well into the evening, when you need it the most.

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Use Floor Materials that Absorb Heat More Effectively

Brick and stone flooring absorbs heat very effectively. Consider laying this type of flooring in areas that get the most sun in your house. Like the walls, the tiles will absorb heat throughout the day and continue to release it into the night when the temperature drops.

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Insulate Your Windows Properly

To make the best use of passive solar energy, you need to insulate your home properly, especially your windows as they account for the greatest amount of heat loss. Consider hanging curtains and shades with black out lining; if you are on a strict budget and are handy with a sewing machine, you can make your own  black out curtains by purchasing the lining and adding it to your current drapes. Other cheap fixes include draft snakes, weather stripping and window insulation film; you may not like how your windows look with this last fix though as it can make the windows look cloudy.

Energy panels help trap heat and are kind of a mix between storm windows and weather stripping; they offer similar benefits of multi-paned windows but for less money. Manufacturers claim energy panels can reduce heat loss by up to 55 percent.

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Other Tips for Reducing Heat Loss

The more you can reduce heat loss, the more you will benefit from passive solar energy. If you have a fireplace, cover it with glass doors rather than fireplace screens to keep heat in; use your fireplace sparingly. Draft snakes can also be used for doors. Use outlet covers and switch insulators to reduce air infiltration. Some paints contain additives said to insulate walls better, but whether they actually work is a matter of debate. If you do not have money to add insulation to your whole house, at least put it in the attic; the California Energy Commission reports this one action is the number one way to reduce heat loss in older houses.

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Closing Thoughts

Passive solar energy is basically the sun that comes in through your windows every single day. It is an important source of energy that we take for granted and do not utilize to the fullest extent we can. By making some simple changes to your home, you can more effectively use the energy of the sun  for your heating needs. Not only will you save money, you will be more environmentally friendly.

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Kelli Cooper is a freelance writer who specializes in green living and related topics. Check out APM Buildings for a variety of outdoor home improvement products.

 

 

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