Harnessing the energy of the sun is a great move towards energy conservation. This trapping of the energy can be done in a couple of ways namely the active and passive solar heating techniques.
While active solar heating techniques are more efficient and reliable, they prove to be expensive and require huge efforts and time for installation. On the contrary, passive solar heating is one of the simplest and easiest methodologies that can be taken up right away by anyone who intends to save energy. Here is a list of the advantages of passive solar heating that in turn has been the inducers of the widespread adoption to this technique across the globe.
Simple Installation: The primary advantage of passive solar heating system is the simple installation procedure that is associated with them. Homemade passive solar heating systems are easily installable since they do not have active mechanical devices associated with them. Majority of the passive solar heating system plans emphasize on the apt constructional design which in turn results in zero installation cost for the system as such. However, modifying the existing design by having water walls, changing the location and orientation of windows, installing fluid/air based system would involve a nominal set up cost.
Cost Effectiveness: One of the major advantages of passive solar heating techniques is the cost effectiveness associated with them. Since the set up of these systems are very simple, the installation costs are often nominal. In the long run, they are effective in harnessing 45-75% of the energy of the sun which in turn serves a part of the household energy needs thereby making them cost effective.
Energy Conservation Avenue: Non renewable sources of energy are not a part of the passive solar heating systems. Neither the fossil fuels nor the other non refillable energy sources come into picture in case of passive solar heating systems. As such, moving towards passive solar heating system is not only a welcome move from personal perspective but is also a much sought after steer from the nation's perspective considering the energy conservation it offers.
Cost Saving in terms of Monthly Electricity Bills: Since the heat energy captured form the rays of the sun is being utilized to pacify a part of the household needs, the passive solar heating mechanism helps in cutting down the consumption of electricity which in turn results in drastic cost saving.
Comfortableness: Having windows that allow the entry of sunlight not only keeps the building bright, but also makes it well ventilated and airy. The usage of air coolers and air conditioners is drastically reduced by making use of this natural phenomenon thereby keeping the health hazards associated with the use of such electronic equipments at bay.
Eco-Friendliness: Yet another important advantage of passive solar heating systems is the eco friendliness that comes with the use of such systems. Since there is no emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere, the incorporation of passive solar heaters/coolers has become a much sought after technique for heating and cooling purposes.
