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Passive House Techniques

A passive house is a building that is designed to be extremely energy-efficient, using a combination of materials, construction techniques, and operating strategies to minimize heating and cooling needs. This approach emphasizes the use of natural light and ventilation, while also providing excellent insulation and air tightness to prevent heat loss or gain. The result is a building that can maintain a comfortable temperature with minimal reliance on mechanical systems.

Building Envelope Design​

The building envelope plays a crucial role in achieving passive house standards. This includes:

  • High-performance windows: Double- or triple-glazed windows with low-e coatings and frames are essential for minimizing heat transfer.
  • Insulation: High-density insulation materials, such as fiberglass, cellulose, or spray foam, should be used throughout the building envelope to prevent heat loss and gain.
  • Air tightness: The building must be designed and constructed to meet high air-tightness standards, typically below 1 ACH (air changes per hour).
  • Building orientation: Careful consideration of building orientation is necessary to maximize natural light and ventilation.

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery​

Mechanical ventilation systems are often used in passive houses to provide a controlled supply of fresh air while recovering heat from the exhaust air. This approach:

  • Provides a consistent and comfortable indoor climate
  • Reduces humidity levels
  • Helps to maintain a healthy indoor environment