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Use free solar energy
The sun provides the best form of heating.
Solar energy is free so use it wherever possible to warm your home when your need heat. Most homes receive some solar energy through sunny windows.
To make the most out of free solar energy:
- When the house needs heat open shades and blinds to let the solar energy in
- When heat is required arrange it so the sun shines onto dark, preferably matt, surfaces, they absorb much more heat. The picture
below shows temperatures on a multi-coloured blanket, most of which is in direct sunlight. The temperature out of the sunlight is 66°F.
Passive heating, demonstrating differing temperatures
Click for a larger image
- At the end of a sunny day, and especially after dark, when the outside temperature is expected to drop, retain as much of the
free solar energy as possible by closing windows and doors and pulling the shades or blinds.
- Fit double or triple glazing to retain as much solar energy as possible.
- During cold periods in unused rooms that don't see direct sunlight leave the shades closed.
- Be aware of the local weather forecast for the next 24 hours and plan accordingly. If temperatures are expected to drop retain heat
by closing windows, doors, shades and blinds before outside temperatures get low.
Generally most of the suns energy is absorbed by the roof, this free solar energy heats attic spaces, and until now most has been wasted.
Attic temperatures can be surprisingly high, even on partially cloudy days.
From spring 2012 a new automated, innovative, uncomplicated and exceptionally efficient supplementary heating and monitoring system is available
that transfers attic heat into the home. The attic heat harvester system can reduce the use of
conventional heating systems saving energy and cost.
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