Whether you’re looking to save money on energy bills or help the environment, you may consider a variety of home heating options; however, choosing the right options can be difficult, and the choices can become confusing.

Passive solar heating offers a unique method for heating your home, and it involves nothing more than sunlight. There are no solar panels or external equipment required. Passive solar heating takes solar energy from outside, pulls it into your home, and keeps it inside so that your home stays warm even after the sun goes down. 

Homeowners can regulate passive solar heating using blinds and overhangs designed to control the heat levels entering a home. Passive solar can also provide warmth during a power outage since it doesn’t require an external energy source. It’s an environmentally friendly form of heating, as the sun is an entirely renewable resource. Since there are no fuel or maintenance costs associated with passive solar heating, it can save you hundreds of dollars each year.

There are key things to keep in mind about passive solar heating as a homeowner. Your home will require specific accommodations to effectively run passive solar heating. First, you need to install large, south-facing windows that are unobstructed by trees, hills, or buildings. Additionally, your home must be thoroughly insulated. Without these accommodations, you may be able to utilize some passive solar heating in your home, but not enough to work without an additional heating source. 

Many homeowners choose to combine passive solar with a more traditional heat source, and pellet stoves may be passive solar heating’s perfect companion. Pellet stoves burn organic pellets, typically made from wood or other materials, to generate heat. The beauty of pellet stoves is that they are regulated by an internal thermostat, so you can set your pellet stoves and forget it and keep your home warm all day. Pellet stoves are easy to keep clean, safe (because there is no open flame), and environmentally friendly. 

The installation process for a pellet stove is extremely simple, and pellet stoves can be installed virtually anywhere and in any type of home. Perhaps the biggest advantage of installing a pellet stove for your home is the savings. Heating your home with a pellet stove costs six times less than using oil or gas. 

Adding an additional source of heating to your home offers many benefits, both financially and environmentally. Pellet stoves are a great option for all homeowners, as they offer easy installation, flexibility, and are extremely efficient.