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  1. Orient building to true south exposure for free passive solar heating and cooling. Ecohouses are designed for south orientation. Variations of greater than 10-12% of true south will diminish passive solar design outcomes greatly.
  2. Check for south obstructions such as trees, hills and adjacent buildings that will block sunlight to building between 10 AM and 2 PM, especially in winter with low angle sun. See these resources:
    - computer generated suncharts by T.M. Crawford,
    - sun chart program by University of Oregon,
    - solar site selector (available at Energy Outlet)
  3. Use existing trees or landforms to block cold winter winds.
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