Print this page Passive Solar & Low Energy Cooling Strategies
Harlan H. Bengtson, Ph.D., P.E.
Course Outline
The major strategies for passive solar and low energy cooling are i) reduction of external heat gain, ii) reduction of internal heat generation, iii) provide ventilation, and iv) use of low-energy cooling methods. Each of these topics are discussed in this course.
This course includes
a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding
of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Be able to name five strategies for passive solar and low energy cooling;
- Be able to calculate appropriate dimensions for roof overhang shading of a south facing window for any of the 239 locations in Solar Radiation Data Manual for Buildings;
- Know how natural convection can be used to aid natural ventilation rates;
- Be able to estimate the flow rate of air through a solar chimney for given chimney dimensions and operating conditions;
- Be able to describe the use of earth tubes as a low energy cooling method; and
- Be able to describe radiative and evaporative cooling as low energy cooling methods.
Intended
Audience
This course is intended for mechanical, chemical and energy engineers, and architects.
Benefits to Attendee
An attendee of this course will have basic knowledge about passive solar and low energy cooling strategies.
Course Introduction
The major strategies for passive solar and low energy cooling are i) reduction of external heat gain, ii) reduction of internal heat generation, iii) provide ventilation, and iv) use of low-energy cooling methods. Each of these topics will be discussed in the following sections.
Course Content
The course content is in the following PDF file:
Passive Solar & Low Energy Cooling Strategies
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Course
Summary
The main strategies for passive solar and low energy cooling of a building are i) reduction of external heat gain, ii) reduction of internal heat generation, iii) provision of ventilation, and iv) use of low energy cooling alternatives. External heat gain can be minimized through the use of proper shading, especially for south facing windows and use of good insulation and weatherstripping to minimize heat infiltration and transmission into the building. Use of energy efficient appliances, and sensible use of appliances, which give off excess heat, during the cooling season, can help to reduce internal heat generation. Natural or augmented ventilation can help to bring cooler air into the building and to make the living space feel more comfortable. Earth tubes, radiative cooling and evaporative cooling are three possible methods for low energy cooling. All three of them work best in locations with low atmospheric humidity.
Related Links
References:
1. Goswami, D. Y., Krieth, Frank, and Kreider, Jan F., Principles of Solar Engineering, Philadelphia: Taylor & Francis, 2000.
2. Anderson, Bruce & Wells, Malcolm, Passive Solar Energy: The Homeowners Guide to Natural Heating and Cooling, Andover MA: Brickhouse Publishing Co., 1981 (available for free download at the website given below:) http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/SolarHomes/PasSolEnergyBk/PSEbook.htm
Websites:
1. Passive Solar Heating & Cooling – Arizona Solar Center http://www.azsolarcenter.com/technology/pas-3.html
2. North Carolina Solar Center, Passive Cooling Information http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/information_resources/factsheets/13coolng.pdf
3. Solar DIY Space Cooling Information and Projects http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/Cooling/passive_cooling.htm
4. NREL, Solar Radiation Data Manual for Buildings (Provides much solar radiation data, including recommended design for roof overhang shading of south-facing windows for 239 stations in the United States and its territories.) http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/pubs/bluebook/
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
