B.3.26 Solar Applications

Designers shall make an effort to incorporate passive solar design strategies into new construction or renovation of existing facilities. Following is a list of suggested strategies which will produce results for minimal extra cost outlay.

• Orient new buildings with long axis east-west. Incorporate plantings on north side for windbreak.

• Maximize window area facing east and south; reduce window area facing west; minimize window area facing north. Large expanses of south facing windows shall include suitable fixed overhangs to minimize summer heat gain. West facing windows should include movable sunscreens or deciduous plantings for shade.

• Reduced insulation on south wall (R-1 1) may be traded off with increased insulation on north wall (R-30).

• Increased window area should be combined with thermal mass for masonry partition walls are examples. (burgundy, forest green, coffee, etc.).

• Active solar hot water heating shall be included unless economic analysis demonstrates it is not feasible. Systems shall be freeze-proofed either with an automatic drain down function or a glycol solution combined with a heat exchanger.

• Solar pre-heating should be considered for hydronic heating systems. Freeze protection shall be as above.

B.3 PROJECT DESIGN