THERMAL MASS: ESSENTIAL TO PASSIVE SOLAR HEATING (continued)
Another good passive solar application, for those who prefer less direct sunlight in their homes, is the Trombe wall (the “be” is silent), named after the Frenchman who designed it. This externally glazed, south-facing, thermal mass wall, also known as a “heat chimney,” creates a natural convection-loop current of solar-heated air that warms you in winter and delivers a “bonus” in summer as well. By utilizing proper venting techniques in summer, a convection-loop Trombe wall can be utilized to circulate naturally cooled air through your home. . . efficiently providing you with “low tech” heating and cooling!
Beginning with good passive solar principles in the design phase of your home is wise, but there are several retrofit concepts that can help an existing home become more efficient and comfortable. One such concept is adding thermal mass through the addition of a properly built “sun space” or sun room addition on the south.
David Brackhahn built his first passively solar heated home in 1976. He takes pride in thinking of all those little BTUs saved over the past 30 years! Two successive families who have lived in that home over the years have enjoyed a gentler, kinder life, for themselves and for our environment, because of the thought, planning, and special care that went into the building of their home.
