passive cooling
Electricity-free temperature reduction
Passive cooling is temperature regulation without mechanical systems or external energy.
Buildings achieve passive cooling through shade, airflow, thermal mass, and strategic orientation—techniques used for millennia before air conditioning.
The home's passive cooling design keeps it comfortable through summer without running the AC.
The term contrasts with active cooling, which requires powered equipment like compressors and fans.
- chimney effectHeat-driven vertical airflow
- overhangsSections projecting beyond base
- airflowMovement of atmosphere
- cool breezeGentle refreshing airflow
- cross-ventilationAirflow through opposing openings
wind catcher · concrete slabs · water features · awnings · heat sink · shade trees · natural ventilation · stone masonry · deciduous trees · adobe walls · louvers · green roofs · pergolas · swamp coolers · ceiling fan · tile · adobe · thick walls
passive coolingradiant heating
Surface-emitted thermal energy
geothermal heating · solar heating · solar gain · underfloor heating