PASSIVE HOUSE

Building Healthy, Comfortable, Sustainable and Efficient Homes

Passive House design is an energy-efficient building standard that minimises energy consumption while maximizing comfort and indoor air quality. Originating in Germany, this approach uses advanced construction techniques with airtight construction, better-insulated walls, and high-performance windows, combined with a ventilation system that maintains fresh air without heat loss to keep optimal indoor conditions throughout the year.

Benefits of Passive House Design

  • Healthier Living: Exceptional indoor air quality reduces allergens and pollutants.
  • Comfort: Consistent temperatures and no cold spots.
  • Energy Savings: Up to 80% reduction in heating/cooling energy.
  • Quiet Environment: High-performance windows limit external noise.
  • Environmental Impact: Significantly lower carbon emissions.
  • Cost Savings: Lower energy bills and tax incentives and reduced green home loans.

Energy Efficiency

Passive House homes reduce heating and cooling energy use by up to 90%. The design utilises passive solar design, energy recovery, insulation and  airtightness to reduce  reliance on artificial energy sources. This reduction in energy consumption leads to lower power bills, making these homes incredibly cost-effective.

Comfort and Consistency

The airtight construction and advanced insulation materials used in Passive Houses ensure that indoor temperatures remain consistent throughout the year between 20 - 25 degrees, regardless of external weather conditions. With no drafts, cold spots, or overheating the Passive Houses provide a comfortable living environment.

Improved Air Quality

A key feature of Passive Houses is the use of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery systems (HRV). This system continuously brings fresh air into the house while recovering the energy from the old air, plus filtering out pollutants, allergens, and moisture creating a healthier indoor environment.

Environmental Sustainability

By drastically reducing the energy required for heating and cooling, Passive Houses contribute to significant reductions in carbon emissions. Passive Houses encourage the installation of Photovoltaic Solar panels, further reducing fossil fuel energy consumption and reliance on the power grid. 

Soundproofing

Due to the superior insulation and high-performance windows, Passive Houses provide an exceptionally quiet indoor environment. External noises, such as cars, trains, airplanes, etc  are significantly reduced, making these homes comfortable and peaceful. 

Cost Savings

The energy-efficient system of Passive Houses results in substantial cost savings on power bills. Additionally, many governments offer incentives, tax breaks, and subsidies for energy-efficient buildings, making Passive Houses even more financially appealing. 

The five Passive House principles (sources Passive House Institute) 

Thermal Insulation: Keeping heat in or out
Proper insulation provides a critical barrier between your heated or cooled indoor space and the fluctuating outdoor temperatures. It enhances thermal comfort, reduces the risk of condensation and reduces energy use for conditioning. 

Passive House Windows: High performing windows with double/triple glazing
Passive House windows are double or triple low-e glazing, filled with argon or krypton gas to prevent heat transfer and avoid condensation. The windows are strategic placed to allow winter sun to warm your space while reducing heat gain during the summer.

Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation: The core efficiency system 
This system maintains air quality by removing stale indoor air and bringing in fresh, filtered air from outside. As the air passes through a heat exchange element, the outgoing air transfers the heat to the incoming air to maintain the indoor temperature, reducing energy use, improving air quality, and preventing condensation and mould growth. 

Airtightness: Absolutely essential
A sealed building envelope minimises gaps and cracks, reducing energy loss by leakage, unwanted draught and noise transfer. Passive Houses are tested to a maximum of 0.6 air changes per hour. 

Thermal Bridge Reduction: Getting the details right 
Thermal bridges can compromise your building's energy efficiency and introduce cold spots, condensation and the risk of mould. Careful design and planning of edges, corners, and connections are essential to prevent these weak points.

Passive House design is a forward-thinking approach to building homes that prioritises energy efficiency, comfort, health, and sustainability. 

  • A Passive House offers significant benefits that make it an excellent investment. 
  • With up to 90% energy savings, these homes reduce energy costs while providing consistent comfort throughout the year.
  • The advanced ventilation system ensures a healthier indoor environment with filtered, fresh air. 
  • Passive Houses are environmentally sustainable, producing fewer carbon emissions and contributing to global climate efforts. 
  • The high-quality construction provides excellent soundproofing and long-term durability

Choosing a Passive House design is a smart choice to enjoy a healthier, quieter, and more cost-effective living environment, while contributing to the global effort to combat climate change. 

Passive House Explained in 90 Seconds (Source: YouTube, Hans-Jörn Eich)

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