How to build a „passive” house

In last years in the construction industry are talking increasingly about energy efficiency of new and old construction and the need for reliable sanitation to reduce energy costs. The increasing prices of all forms of energy require different development trends building standards that can reduce these costs.

One of the most popular and effective concepts for low-power construction is the so called "passive house". The passive house is built with so good insulation and air density, that is characterized by up to 10 times lower power consumption for heating compared with the standard construction. To achieve this, it is required specific design approach and relevant application of quality materials.

When a customer decides to entrust the design and construction of a passive house, he must have realized that he is investing in its future and should trust the professionals. Otherwise he risks to pay a greater price for quality materials, without the expected results.

Now I will introduce you to some of the basic principles that are enshrined in the standard "passive house".

To lose the least possible heat, the building must be very well insulated. Approximately half of the heat is lost to the ventilation of the buildings, which is why it is of utmost importance, the building to be with high air density. Once the building is unpressurized, requiring it to be fitted with a ventilation system to supply fresh air while simultaneously returning heat from exhaust air back into the room through the heat exchanger.

An important key to the operation of a passive house are the windows and the doors. On the one hand you need to choose a quality window system with excellent thermal insulation and, on the other hand to hold air density with class not less than "class 4".

Otherwise, the house could not pass the statutory test for the determination of air density, called a "Blower door test ". This test determines the limit value of uncontrolled air-exchange in the building, respectively, the heat losses through closed windows and other structural joints. Due to the presence of ventilation system there is no need for window ventilation, but are not limited to using it, if you accept the accompanying heat losses.

The windows should not be seen as a weak link in the context of the building shell, because they can contribute in no small degree of thermal comfort in the building where they let in sun light and heat in the premises.

For the effective use of sun energy is appropriate sufficient number of windows to be deployed on the southern facade of the building and limiting them from the north side. To prevent possible overheating in summer must be provided for effective sun protection devices or blinds.

If we observe the principles of design and construction, which is quite realistic, you'll get a building with multiple lower energy consumption.