How Our Homes Work
The Collector
Heat is collected behind the black metal roof which is at right angles to the winter sun for maximum solar gain.
The Storage
The hot air is moved to the 4" ducts inside the thermal mass under the floor (20" of concrete and gravel) the heat is slowly released keeping the home warm through days of no sun.
Solar Blower
High efficiency DC centrifugal blower moves heat from roof to under floor.
Solar heat distribution pit
Formed in the concrete
Forming and Wing Insulation
Wing insulation helps prevent heat loss from the foundation.
High and Dry
Great care is taken to isolate from cold and moisture. Layers of drainage gravel, vapor barrier plastic and geotextile fabrics are placed under and around the homes insulation.
Ready to pour concrete
Solar Control
Click image to see detailed data:
Sensor Data: February - April, 2011
Sensor Data shows a constant inside temperature with fluctuating outdoor winter temperatures and collector readings exceeding 50 Deg.C. Click image to see detailed data:
