There are five main components to a passive solar home:  

1.    Windows – Oriented to the south, with glass that lets heat in but doesn’t let heat out!

2.    Shading devices – Shading devices allow for full sun on the windows in the winter and full shading on them in summer.

3.    Absorption surface – This should be a dark color for maximum absorption.

4.    Thermal mass – In this case, a radiant concrete flooring / heating system.

5.    Distribution system – A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) helps to distribute the solar heat throughout the house.