How to reach the Passive House standards?

Construction, which heat insulation conforms to the passive house standards, has heat insulation layer on average 30-50cm, it is thermal bridges free and have very tight exterior coating (vapour insulation). Energy economy is also ensured by new generation windows with triple glazing and multi-layer frame construction, which allows for so much of the sun’s energy to enter the building that it more than makes up for any heat that may be lost through them in winter. Controlled ventilation of premises ensures regular circulation of fresh air in rooms and, by using heat exchanger, reduces heat loss through the ventilation system to the lowest notch. These three steps guarantee the reaching of standards of a low energy consumption house.

  • U value (the coefficient of thermal conductivity) for airtight constructions not more than 0,10 W/m2K.
  • Ug value (thermal conductivity of glazing) for window less than 0,8 W/m2K, sunlight not less than 50% to give a positive energy balance in winter months.
  • UW value (thermal conductivity of window frame) less than 0,8 W/m2K. Along with this position also the technology and quality of window installation is evaluated. Conventional window frames do not meet this criterion.
  • The building should be enclosed in a very well-insulated and airtight building envelope. This can be ensured only by high-quality sealing materials.
  • Ventilation system with heat recovery at least 75% and energy consumption not more than 0,45 W on one cubic metre. The warm up of incoming air by using earth heat in winter and „cooling” by using the coolness of earth in summer.
  • Insulated water, heating and ventilation pipes and wires.
  • Energy-saving household appliances, lamps.
  • Proper house position to four cardinal points, provision of effective shading in summer.

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