Passive Solar in the North East

[swampcedars]

Anyone here with first had experience living in a passive solar home in the cloudy NE? Looking to hear and learn about your experience, what has worked and what you would change.

I have talked to some folks and been to some places in person...most say it's a very mixed bag and would go more with insulation than glass if they did it again.

Thanks.

[DavidOH]

I picked up a book from BWH titled: The Evolution of an Independent Home

It's a good story of how a guy builds his home in Massachusetts.
Passive Solar is predominate. It's as much of a story of his experience as it is about how to do it.

You may find it helpful and interesting.

[LaMar]

All homes regardless of area should be well insulated and weather proofed first before considering passive solar.

Too many windows without proper overhang and shades will cook a place in summer and will lose more heat than gained in winter.

An enclosed sun porch added to the south side of the house can be used to bring warm air inside in the winter and closed off at night to prevent heat loss.

Limit windows on shady side of the house and use thermal quilt shades to hold in the heat.

I live in Utah- cold winters. I enclose my covered porch in two layers of clear plastic to create a sun room. Open the door or window and let that heat inside. Close it at night. Acts like an air lock to keep drafts out.

LaMar