Sun-wise in the Snowbelt
Here in northern Ontario, Canada the last thing you'd think we could do is solar construction! It's definitely something you have to consider carefully since the sun travels so far south in the winter that from where I stand today it's barely visible through the trees. A snowy day means you won't get much radiation to use and we have lots of snowy days! Could our homes be warm and comfy with stand-alone solar when there's 4 feet of snow outside? Heck no! But combined with a wood stove the author knows and shows we can be quite comfortable and still watch TV, listen to music, type on our computers. That's the point of this book, and it's very well done.
From new construction through retrofitting and detailed construction drawings of solar benches, swingwalls, solar heated water storage, discussion of solar loss, angles to build to, and etc etc etc, this book will give you many ideas and help give you a foundation in how to plan, build and enjoy your solar home. While it's an older book, the principles are ancient and current - relevant for today. Take it and use it with confidence!
