Daylighting is the use of windows and skylights to bring sunlight into your home.
Thanks to today's highly insulated windows and advances in lighting design, windows can reduce the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours without causing heating or cooling problems.
Incorporating daylighting in your home depends on your climate and home design. North-facing windows are best for daylighting and for moderating seasonal temperatures. They allow most winter sunlight into the home, but little direct sun during the summer, especially when properly shaded.
South-facing windows also work for daylighting. They admit relatively even, natural light, producing little glare and almost no unwanted summer heat gain.
East and west-facing windows provide good daylight penetration in the morning and evening, but their use should be limited. They may cause glare, admit a lot of unwanted heat during the summer, and contribute little warmth during the winter.
References adapted from United States Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
Visit the Smarter Homes Lighting and Heating pages for more information.
ShareThis
