Passive solar energy is the process of making use of the sun’s energy without the use of photovoltaics. Passive solar energy is a great way to use the energy of the sun. The methods of passive solar energy are several. Let us have a look at 3 of the most common methods for passive solar energy.
The first method of collecting solar energy is the solar oven. This oven looks like a conventional oven and you can use it to heat your food. The ovens have a well insulated box surrounded by several layers of insulation. The insulation does not allow the heat to escape. The solar oven works best in very hot and dry environments. However the solar oven is not as powerful as a conventional oven and it will cook food at a relatively slower rate. Since solar ovens are a perfect example of using passive solar energy you can take the oven on long trips where the oven is exposed to direct sunlight. You can then use the stored energy cooking meals or heating the woods.
You can also install a passive indoor heating and cooling system in your house. However careful planning has to be done during the construction of your home. For example, you will have to position your windows in such a way that they are exposed to maximum sunlight. You should ideally trim tress surrounding your house so that maximum sunlight can be absorbed. The energy thus saved can then be used for heating or cooling your home. The passive solar heating system also involves insulating your walls so that heat does not escape through the walls and the windows. Hence the sun’s warmth can be used passively to keep the rooms in your house warm.
Then there are the Trombe walls that make use of sunlight to heat your home or office. The walls are either made from adobe, concrete or an array of water tanks. Each of these materials functions as a thermal mass and when this material is combined with insulated glazing at the outside and the vents that run across the perimeter. Hence these walls act now as a solar thermal collector. Hence the Trombe Wall is also a great means of passive solar energy. And you can cover the costs of your installation in a very short period of time as you will be saving considerably by using less of conventional power.