Orientation
A window facing the morning sun can capture up to 1,000 watts per square metre on a sunny day. This is the same amount of heat as an average size space heater.
Read more tips »The correct orientation of your house will optimise the potential solar gain from the sun and cooling breezes to maximise the comfort and energy efficiency of your home.
An ideal orientation means that you get the right amount of sun in winter (and cooler climates) and optimise the amount of sun in warmer climates (i.e. at the right times of day) and that you are protected from strong winds while having the benefit of cooling breezes.
Orientation should not just be considered when you are building new. If you are undertaking any size of alteration (small or large) and changing the size or location of your home’s windows then consider increasing the size of your north facing windows or just changing the way you use existing rooms. A large number of New Zealand homes have bedrooms or service areas (laundries or garages) on the north side of the house and living areas on the south side of the house. Swap these around!
It is vital that the orientation of the house is considered in conjunction with the house design and materials (including insulation).