solar gain

Solar gain refers to the process by which sunlight passes through windows and is absorbed by surfaces inside a building, such as walls, floors, and furniture. This absorbed heat then warms the interior space. While solar gain can help reduce heating costs by naturally warming a building, excessive gain during hot seasons can lead to overheating, increasing cooling needs. Effective management of solar gain involves design strategies like window placement, shading, and glazing choices to optimize comfort and energy efficiency throughout the year.