Solar Homes use the power of the sun to heat their homes and reduce their utility bills

In the beginning you will need to decide whether you want an "active" or a "passive" solar homes system. Passive systems do not use mechanical devices to distribute solar heat from the collector. Examples of passive systems for space heating is a sunspace or solar greenhouse on the south side of the house.

Although passive systems are simpler than active systems, they may be impractical for a variety of reasons (for example, building an effective sunspace may not be possible).

Active solar heating systems consist of collectors that collect and absorb solar radiation and electric fans or pumps that transfer and distribute the solar heat in liquid or air from the collectors. They may have a storage system to provide heat when the sun is not shining. An active system may be more flexible than a passive system in terms of siting and installation. Choosing the appropriate solar energy system depends on factors such as the site, design, and heating needs of your house. Local covenants may restrict your options; for example homeowner associations may not allow you to install solar collectors on certain parts of your house.

It is usually most economical to design an active system to provide 40% to 80% of the home's heating needs. . A well designed and insulated home that incorporates passive solar heating techniques will require a smaller and less costly heating system of any type, and may need very little supplemental heat other than solar.

You can position collectors in different locations but in general, the optimum collector orientation is true south. Collectors usually receive the most sunlight when placed on the roof. In some cases, however, the roof may be too shady or you (or your neighbors) may not like the look of collectors on the roof. If this is the case, you may mount the collectors on a supporting structure on the ground, or on the south wall of the house, where there is enough sunlight for the collectors to perform satisfactorily.

Other articles that may be of interest to you include Solar Heating and Solar Water Heating.