Passivhaus is a rigorous building standard that prioritises energy efficiency and occupant comfort through sustainable design practices. Unlike conventional buildings that rely heavily on active heating and cooling systems, Passivhaus buildings utilise passive design strategies to minimise energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.
This approach centers around five core principles that work synergistically to achieve exceptional energy performance. Keep reading as we discuss these principles in more detail.
1 | High-quality insulation with super-insulated building envelopes
The foundation of a Passivhaus building lies in its superior insulation and airtightness. A super-insulated building envelope, encompassing walls, roof and floor, significantly reduces heat transfer between the interior and exterior. This minimises heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer, ensuring a stable and comfortable indoor temperature year-round.
Airtightness is equally crucial in preventing uncontrolled air leakage, which can compromise thermal performance. By meticulously sealing all joints and gaps in the building envelope, Passivhaus construction effectively eliminates drafts and unwanted heat loss or gain.
2 | Adequate heat control throughout
This involves strategic design and placement of windows and shading elements to optimise solar heat gain in winter and minimise it in summer. By harnessing passive solar energy and controlling heat flow, Passivhaus buildings maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round with minimal reliance on active heating and cooling systems.
This not only reduces energy consumption and associated costs, but also creates a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
3 | Airtight construction with high-performance glazing on windows and doors
Windows and doors, being inherently weaker points in the building envelope, require special attention in Passivhaus design.
High-performance windows and doors with advanced glazing and framing systems are essential to minimise heat transfer and optimise solar heat gain. These elements play a crucial role in regulating indoor temperature and daylighting, contributing to a comfortable and energy-efficient living environment.
4 | Thermal bridge-free detailing and design
Thermal bridges, areas of increased heat flow through the building envelope, can significantly impact energy performance. Passivhaus design emphasises thermal bridge-free construction, employing meticulous detailing and material selection to minimise heat loss at junctions and connections.
This ensures consistent thermal performance throughout the building envelope, preventing localised cold spots and energy wastage.
5 | Heat recovery ventilation
Fresh air is essential for a healthy indoor environment, but conventional ventilation systems can lead to significant energy losses. Passivhaus buildings address this challenge through heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems.
HRV systems efficiently exchange heat between incoming fresh air and outgoing stale air, recovering up to 95% of the heat energy that would otherwise be lost. This not only reduces heating and cooling demands but also ensures a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air, promoting occupant health and well-being.
Passivhaus Design by Elite Renewables
If you're interested in learning more about Passivhaus design and how it can benefit your next building project, contact us here at Elite Renewables today.
As experts in residential architecture, our team of professionals is ready to help you create a sustainable, energy-efficient home that will provide comfort and cost savings for years to come.
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