Active and Passive Systems
Active:
This is a system that uses a pump or a fan to circulate water or air that the sun has heated. It requires a collector to absorb heat, a storage system to keep the heat, and a distribution system to move the heat throughout the building. It will generate more heat than a passive system, but it uses power and mechanical components to distribute the heat.
Text: Kleinbach, M., and Hinrichs, R. (2013). Energy: Its use and the environment. Canada: Cengage Learning. p. 180.
Text: Kleinbach, M., and Hinrichs, R. (2013). Energy: Its use and the environment. Canada: Cengage Learning. p. 180.
Passive:
This is done by the sun to the building itself. If you've ever witnessed a cat sleeping near a window in sunlight because it's warmer in that area, this is an example of passive solar heating. It is based on the design of the house rather than using any devices. The materials that make up a home will absorb the sun's heat, and then air must be circulated throughout it for it to work. This type of solar heating can reduce your heating bill by 50%!
Text: Kleinbach, M., and Hinrichs, R. (2013). Energy: Its use and the environment. Canada: Cengage Learning. p. 174.
Text: Kleinbach, M., and Hinrichs, R. (2013). Energy: Its use and the environment. Canada: Cengage Learning. p. 174.