A type of heating system where heat, resulting when electric current flows through an "element" or conductor, such as Nichrome, which has a high resistance, is radiated to a room.

A way of joining photovoltaic cells by connecting positive leads to negative leads; such a configuration increases the voltage.

The flow of heat from one area to another by conduction, convection, and/or radiation. Heat flows naturally from a warmer to a cooler material or space.

The force that pulls a wind turbine blade, as opposed to drag.

A device that removes contaminants, by mechanical filtration, from the fresh air stream before the air enters the living space. Filters can be installed as part of a heating/cooling system through which air flows for the purpose of removing particulates b ...

A device consisting of two dissimilar conductors with their ends connected together. When the two junctions are at different temperatures, a small voltage is generated.

The concept of capturing and converting the energy available in the motion of ocean waves to energy.

All the components of the appliance used to condition interior air of a building.

The ability of a building construction assembly (partition, wall, floor, etc.) to resist the passage of fire. The rating is expressed in hours.

A water heater that heats water before it is directly distributed for end use as required; a demand water heater.

Alternating current in which three separate pulses are present, identical in frequency and voltage, but separated 120 degrees in phase.

Energy supplied during periods of relatively high system demands as specified by the supplier.

The processes that a work input/output system undergoes and in which the initial and final states are identical.

A measure of the efficiency of an appliance's energy efficiency.

A unit or measure of electricity supply or consumption of 1,000 Watts over the period of one hour; equivalent to 3,412 Btu.

A space heating device that burns pellets; are more efficient, clean burning, and easier to operate relative to conventional cord wood burning appliances.

The transfer of heat through a material by the transfer of kinetic energy from particle to particle; the flow of heat between two materials of different temperatures that are in direct physical contact.

A type of heat pump that uses the ground, ground water, or ponds as a heat source and heat sink, rather than outside air. Ground or water temperatures are more constant and are warmer in winter and cooler in summer than air temperatures. Geothermal heat p ...

The process of breaking down organic material; reduction of the net energy level and change in physical and chemical composition of organic material.

A refined petroleum product suitable for use as a fuel in internal combustion engines.