SOLAR INSULATION - University of Waterloo

SOLAR INSULATION PRINCIPLES KATHLEEN MAYBERRY Objective: To explore insulation for houses, and additional techniques to conserve energy in order to take advantage of solar energy BACKROUND INFORMATION

Different types of insulation depending on needs and climate. R-Value: measurement of how well a material resists the flow of heat Greater R-Value Greater resistance BACKGROUND INFORMATION Types of Insulation: Batts Blankets

Loose-Fill (most common) Foam Rigid ROOF/CEILING One of the main causes for energy loss Normally, uses higher R-Value than other areas of a house If the house has an attic, the floor of attic should be insulated as well

WINDOWS/SKYLIGHTS Solar houses have many windows and skylights (Passive Solar Heating) In winter, skylight allows solar energy inside. However, during overcast days , and nighttime they let a considerable

amount of heat outside. In summer, a great deal of heat enters through windows, especially skylights WINDOWS/SKYLIGHTS Solution: Movable Insulation Types: Sliding Panel Shutters

Window Mats Allows solar heat to enter when it is needed, and block solar heat when it is not needed Ex. Unwanted solar heat in daytime during summer WINDOWS/SKYLIGHTS

Prevents heat escaping during the nighttime, and non-sunny days Inexpensive compared to other ways on insulating windows Other ways to insulate: Double pane windows Insulated glazing windows, especially

south-facing windows OTHER INSULATION Doors should have fiber glass insulation with a R-value of R5-9 Heat storage vaults and heat transport tubes should be insulated

Insulation in floors above unheated areas CONCLUSION In order to take advantage of the sun for solar energy, a house must be properly insulated to conserve the energy REFERENCES Solar Power. Wikipedia. Oct. 5, 2005

Better Homes and Gardens: Solar Living. Meredith Corporation: Iowa, 1983. Solarizing Your Present Home. Rodale Press Inc.: United States of America, 1981.