Direct Beam Radiation - Solar radiation that arrives in a straight line from the sun. The process by which sunlight directly enters a building through the windows and is absorbed and stored in massive floors or walls. Direct Vent Heater - A type of combustion heating system in which combustion air is drawn directly from outside and the products of combustion are vented directly outside. These features are beneficial in tight, energy-efficient homes because they will not depressurize a home and cause air infiltration, and backdrafting of other combustion appliances. Direct Water Heater - A type of water heater in which heated water is stored within the tank.
Hot water is released from the top of the tank when a hot water faucet is turned.
This water is replaced with cold water that flows into the tank and down to just above the bottom plate under which are the burners. Discounting - A method of financial and economic analysis used to determine present and future values of investments or expenses. Discount Rate - The interest rate at which the Federal Reserve System stands ready to lend reserves to commercial banks. The rate is proposed by the 12 Federal Reserve banks and determined with the approval of the Board of Governors. Dispatching - To schedule and control the generation and delivery of electric power.