The Solar Gain Calculator is a practical tool designed to estimate the annual solar gain in kilowatt-hours (kWh) based on several key factors related to windows or glazed elements. This tool helps individuals or professionals in the construction or energy sectors to gauge the potential solar energy gain a structure might receive over a year.
Formula of Solar Gain Calculator
The Solar Gain (kWh/year) is calculated using the following formula:
Solar Gain (kWh/year) = Σ(Ai * F * G * ηs * ηw)
Where:
- Ai represents the area of each window or glazed element in square meters (m²).
- F stands for the solar transmittance factor of the window.
- G denotes the total solar radiation on the window in Watts per square meter (W/m²).
- ηs signifies the shading correction factor.
- ηw represents the window correction factor.
This formula amalgamates various parameters that influence the amount of solar energy a window can capture, considering factors like area, transmittance, solar radiation, shading, and window-specific correction factors.
General Terms Table
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Solar Transmittance Factor (F) | Represents how much solar energy passes through a window. |
| Solar Radiation (G) | Total solar energy received on the window per square meter. |
| Shading Correction Factor (ηs) | Adjustment for shading impact on solar energy capture. |
| Window Correction Factor (ηw) | Correction for window-specific solar energy absorption. |
This table serves as a quick reference guide for general terms related to the Solar Gain Calculator, aiding users in understanding the terms and their significance.
Example of Solar Gain Calculator
Suppose a structure has windows with an area of 10 square meters (Ai), a solar transmittance factor (F) of 0.8, receives 1000 Watts per square meter (G) of solar radiation, a shading correction factor (ηs) of 0.9, and a window correction factor (ηw) of 0.85. Plugging these values into the formula, the estimated solar gain would be calculated as follows:
Solar Gain (kWh/year) = 10 * 0.8 * 1000 * 0.9 * 0.85 = 6120 kWh/year
Most Common FAQs
The Solar Gain Calculator helps estimate the annual solar energy a building receives through its windows, aiding in energy efficiency assessments and optimizing heating or cooling systems.
Yes, the calculator’s formula applies to various structures equipped with windows or glazed elements, providing an estimate of solar energy gain based on specified factors.