Building our desert home
TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design Save to Ideabook Email Photo Look for a solar pro who: Offers a strong warranty. Be sure the inverter is covered for at least 10 years and the panels are covered for 20 to 25 years. Uses panels made by a manufacturer based in the U.S. That way your warranty will still protect you if the manufacturer goes belly up. Doesn’t outsource installation. There will be more accountability if things don’t go according to plan. Is licensed and bonded, and no major complaints have been filed with the Better Business Bureau. Can supply at least two recent customer references.
Consider the Known Conditions: Sun, Wind and Light A few tools can help you make a smart decision about the orientation of your home. Obtain a sun path diagram for your site’s location. This will help you determine the orientation of your home by giving a visual of where the sun travels in the sky throughout the day. Make note also of any obstructions surrounding the site (buildings, trees, telephone poles etc.) and potential obstructions (for instance, a vacant lot that could be developed) that might block potential passive solar gain. A wind rose notes the direction and frequency of prevailing winds. The United States Department of Commerce has wind data collected from many airport locations, so you may be able to find one close to your site. This is key in determining the effectiveness of a windmill to help produce electricity. It’s also important to be aware of your predominant sky conditions throughout the year: overcast, clear or partly cloudy. This will become useful knowledge when you’re determining how to light the home’s interior. By taking advantage of natural light, you can reduce your electrical load and your dependency on artificial illumination. Did you know tha...
I love this courtyard.
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