Indirect gain: What is it? In the previous blog, we spoke about the benefits and principles of direct gain. However, passive solar design is not limited to it. Indirect gain is just another element of the passive solar design game, and we at Mesa Glass are willing to tell more about its benefits and strengths. Unlike direct gain windows, where energy from the sun comes directly through the window and is absorbed by the interior constructions, such as floors or walls, indirect gain windows operate through an energy storage located between them and the interior. For example, many specialists in the glass industry use a Trombe wall consisting of a 8-16 inch masonry material, always on the southern side of the house. This is critical, since most sunlight energy comes from the south. This is why we always tell our customers that, when designing their homes and windows, they should be extremely considerate with the choice of the location, climate, and home design. Using a masonry wall on the south side of the house is a good solution to many energy problems that emerge on a daily basis. With a Trombe wall on the southern side of your house, you will have a dark surface absorbing the sunlight and a mass of wall material keeping this energy to get it back into the living space, when there is no sun.
One of the major benefits of indirect gain windows is that the mason wall used in it releases the energy from the sun several hours. However, we at Mesa Glass cannot ignore the fact that indirect gain windows are difficult to manage in home and business buildings that have been completed. Certainly, indirect gain windows and walls present a perfect solution to many energy problems, but only at the stage of design. This is why we recommend that our glass professionals and your construction agents work together to create a perfect home for you!
