Active Solar Heating is a system that uses energy from sunlight to heat a structure and/or provide hot water. This system relies on pumps or fans to move the energy-transporting medium through the system, distinguishing it from passive solar heating.
A British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a unit of heat energy, defined as the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
A British Thermal Unit (BTU) measures the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. It is a fundamental unit of measurement in heating and cooling systems and energy production.
Ducts or ductwork are metal tubes or conduits used to distribute heated, cooled, or ventilated air from a central HVAC system throughout a house or building. These ducts can either be cylindrical or have a rectangular cross-section.
EIFS (Exterior Insulating and Finish Systems) is a synthetic exterior cladding system used as an alternative to traditional stucco. It provides insulation and a finished surface in a single integrated layer, enhancing the energy efficiency and aesthetic of buildings.
Exposure (Physical) refers to the direction in which a property or building faces, impacting light, heat, and overall energy efficiency.
Green building refers to the practice of creating structures and employing processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life cycle—from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort.
Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) provide high-quality, energy-efficient building systems that streamline construction processes, improve energy performance, and offer enhanced durability.
Insulation involves materials used to slow the transfer of heat through walls, roofs, and other elements of a building to reduce energy costs and help maintain a uniform internal temperature.
An Intelligent Building is equipped with advanced computer and electrical systems that sense and control the heating, cooling, lighting, and other building systems to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort.
LEED Certification is a globally recognized certification system for buildings, homes, and communities that are designed and built to meet high environmental performance standards in areas such as site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.
A moisture barrier is a layer of material such as foil, plastic, or paper used in the construction of exterior walls, ceilings, and foundations to prevent moisture penetration into wooden members or insulation, helping to protect the structural integrity and energy efficiency of buildings.
Orientation refers to the positioning of a structure within a site concerning sunlight angles and prevailing winds, which influences energy efficiency, lighting, heating, cooling, and overall comfort.
Passive Solar Heating is a system of features incorporated into a building’s design to use and maximize the effects of the sun’s natural heating capability.
R Value is a measure of the heat conductivity of a material. The higher the R value, the better the material serves as insulation from heat transfer, commonly applied to insulating materials, roofs, exterior walls, windows, and doors.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) Rating is a measure of the energy efficiency of air-conditioning equipment. It compares the amount of cooling provided (in BTUs) to the amount of energy consumed (in watt-hours).
Solar Heating technologies capture solar energy to provide hot water for residential, commercial, and industrial use through both active and passive systems, leading to energy savings and reduced environmental impact.
A sunspace, also known as a sunroom or solarium, is a room with extensive glass walls and often a glass roof that is designed to capture solar energy. This additional space can naturally heat a home, provide light, and offer a luxurious area for relaxation.
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a nonprofit organization that offers LEED certification for green buildings, along with educational resources and a network of chapters and affiliates to support environmentally sensitive construction.
