Call Toll Free 1

Call Toll Free 1-877-846-5687 In the U.S.A. for more information on Solar Homes, hot water systems, retrofit systems, wind turbines, pv systems etc.

	A south wall that needs to face more than 15% off of true south
	Views desired to the west, east, and north
	A tall south wall, or one that has gables
	A south porch that is integral to the preferred design style
	No tile or brick floors
	Natural cooling in homes with no air conditioning
	A wood stove or hearth as the primary auxiliary back-up heat source
	Equipment and furniture for which little direct sun is desired

The designs that we have been able to monitor have had the actual energy consumption of the home be very similar to our energy analyses. We also like this design methodology because, unlike other energy analysis tools, it tells you the percentage of your heat that the sun is providing. It lets you compare strategies such as adding insulation or increasing south glass.

Open, spacious, and full of light

	Inviting and unique (but somewhat traditional) are the characteristics of our exteriors.
	Functional—yet flexible to meet changing needs—is a quality of our floor plans.
	Porches are often included for both shade and outdoor living.
	Your home will feel larger than it is, since it will be full of natural sunlight.
	Simple, cost-effective principles of passive solar heating and passive cooling without the stark look of the solar designs of the 1960's and 70's.
	Comfortable homes year-round.

Simple passive solar concepts

	The sun moves basically in the southern half of the sky.
	In winter, the sun is low and can enter beneath overhangs.
	In summer, the sun is high and is shaded by overhangs.
	A home's shape, orientation, and overhangs all affect the amount of sun that enters at various times of the year.
	Our designs are inspired by the location and movement of the sun.

Adaptable to both hot and cold climates

	In winter, the sun's heat is desired.
	In summer, we want the light but not the heat.
	The amount of heat we want in spring and fall depends upon where we live.
	Customized energy recommendations that come with every blueprint, erasable vellum, or CAD order address the needs of your climate. We recommend any necessary changes in the glazing, insulation, overhang lengths, and thermal mass based on the climatic data for your area...this includes whether or not you should build the sun-tempered or standard passive solar version.

Energy bills will be substantially lower

	Heating costs can be 25 to 50% less due to passive solar heating alone.
	Energy bills will be at least 30% less than a standard home of the same size.
	Up to 90% savings for heating and cooling are possible when combined with careful attention to insulation, caulking, and quality heating and cooling equipment.

Cost-effective, energy-efficient construction

	We emphasize the quality of installation for the insulation and caulking.
	Standard construction details are used and dimensions are usually in 2' increments.
	Most are designed with conventional construction methods with 2x6 exterior walls. Our plans can be modified to include structurally insulated panels (SIPs) and insulated concrete forms (ICFs).
	Increase in construction costs from approximately 0% to 10%.
	Energy savings exceed increase in mortgage payment so your net home expenses are less.

Wind Energy

Sun Energy

Geothermal Energy

Company Info

Back to Home Page