A Passive House is a super insulated, virtually air-tight building that is primarily heated by passive solar gain and by internal gains from people, electrical equipment, etc. Any remaining heat demand is provided by an extremely small source. The result is an impressive system that not only saves up to 90% of space heating costs, but also provides an excellent indoor air quality. Five principles
are key to the Passive House concept:
1. Insulation
A well-insulated building envelope keeps warmth in during the cold months and
heat out during warmer months.
2. Passive House windows
Strategically positioned, highly insulated windows do their part to make
optimal use of the sun’s energy.
3. Ventilation with heat recovery
Passive House ventilation systems provide plentiful fresh, pollen and dust-free
air with maximal energy efficiency through heat recovery
4. Airtightness
Passive Houses are designed to avoid leakages in the building envelope, thus
boosting energy efficiency while preventing draughts and moisture damage.
5. Thermal bridge free design
Avoidance of thermal bridges, weak points in the building envelope, contributes
to pleasant, even temperatures while eliminating moisture damage and improving
energy efficiency.
