Quick Answer
Yes, passive solar homes can be heated solely by the sun during sunny periods, but supplemental heating methods are often necessary for prolonged periods of cloudiness or cold weather.
Designing for Solar Gain
Passive solar homes are designed to maximize solar gain through large south-facing windows, thermal mass, and insulation. The earthship home, a type of passive solar design, uses rammed earth construction to store heat during the day and release it at night. A well-designed earthship home can absorb and store enough solar energy to heat the space for several hours after sunset.
Materials and Techniques
To achieve optimal passive solar heating, earthship homes often incorporate materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete, rammed earth, or brick. These materials absorb and store heat during the day, releasing it slowly at night. Techniques like Trombe walls, which use a south-facing wall to absorb and store heat, can also be effective. Additionally, the use of insulation and shading devices helps to minimize heat loss and prevent overheating.
Case Study: Earthship Homes in the Desert
In the desert regions of New Mexico, earthship homes have been successfully built to heat and cool themselves using only the sun. These homes often feature south-facing windows, thermal mass, and insulation to maximize solar gain. With proper design and construction, earthship homes can maintain a comfortable temperature range of 68-72°F (20-22°C) during the winter months, making them an attractive option for off-grid living.
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