Thermal mass, the important component of passive solar design is most commonly used for passive heating though it also can be relied to absorb and dissipate heat for passive cooling. The design is usually achieved by natural floor finish or heavily made walls using stone, compressed stabilised earth blocks (CSEB), rammed earth and etc. In winter, thermal mass absorbs heat from the sun and other heat sources during the day and release the heat during night when there is a fall in temperature. In summer, thermal mass absorbs the ambient air heat while being shaded from direct sunlight to help reduce overheating. At night, the house can be ventilated to allow any excess heat to be lost into the cooler night air.
