If you want an inexpensive, environmentally sound source of energy for your home, you need look no further than the sun. Solar heat is not subject to rate increases, is totally renewable, pollution free and requires little or no technology. It is here for you today, and can easily provide up to 50% of your space and water heating requirements. This is a book that simply and clearly explains the principles of using solar energy to heat your home. Anyone building a new home, or renovating an old one can incorporate one or several aspects of solar energy into their design. Taking you through the process of designing a solar home from the ground up this manual is also a basic course in conservation and sustainable house design. If you live in a 'heating' climate, meaning if you have space heating requirements for most of the year then this is an invaluable resource. A house is the biggest single investment most of us will make in our lives - the way it is built and how it operates can reflect a long term investment in both the building and the planet.

Implementation of Solar Thermal Technology describes the successes and failures of the commercialization efforts of the U.S. solar thermal energy program, from the oil embargo of 1973 through the demise of the program in the early Reagan administration and its afterlife since then. The emphasis throughout is on lessons learned from the solar experience, with an eye toward applications to other projects as well as toward possible renewal of efforts at commercialization. Part I discusses the history of government involvement in solar development and the parallel development of the market for solar products. Part II looks at the histories of specific commercialization programs for five areas (active heating and cooling, passive technologies, passive commercial building activities, industrial process heat, and high-temperature technologies). Parts III-VIII focus in turn on demonstration and construction projects, quality assurance, information dissemination programs, efforts to transfer technology to industry, incentive programs (tax credits, financing, and grants), and organizational support. Solar Heat Technologies: Fundamentals and Applications, Volume 10

A popular reference used daily by builders, contractors, architects, and owners, this guide is a unique collection of industry standards that define quality in construction. For contractors, subcontractors, owners, developers, architects, engineers, attorneys, and insurance personnel, it provides authoritative requirements and recommendations compiled from the nation's leading professional associations, industry publications, and building code organizations. New third edition is completely updated to the latest standards, codes, and trends. Coverage includes standards for concrete, masonry, framing, finish carpentry and cabinetry, insulation, roofing, windows and doors, drywall and ceramic tile, floor covering, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more. This one-stop reference is enhanced by helpful commentary from respected practitioners, including identification of items most frequently targeted for construction defect claims. FEATURES: This one-of-a-kind resource enables you to: Establish an acceptable quality of workmanship Resolve disputes and avoid litigation Train personnel in correct installation procedures Answer client questions and authority Easily find applicable building code information The nationwide team of editors includes leading contractors, engineers, architects and construction defect analysts. They provide practical installation tips, along with advice on how to avoid the most frequently cited defect claims.