Question 1

What is Passivhaus?

Accepted Answer

Passivhaus (or Passive House) is a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in buildings, which reduces the building's ecological footprint. It results in ultra-low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling.

Question 2

What are the Key Principles of Passivhaus Design?

Accepted Answer

The key principles include:
 • High levels of insulation: Ensuring minimal heat loss.
 • Airtight construction: Preventing unwanted drafts and heat loss.
 • High-performance windows: Often triple-glazed with insulated frames.
 • Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR): Providing fresh air while retaining most of the energy that has already been used in heating the building.
 • Thermal bridge-free construction: Eliminating weak points where heat can escape.

Question 3

How Much Energy Does a Passivhaus Use?

Accepted Answer

A Passivhaus typically uses up to 90% less energy for heating and cooling compared to conventional buildings. The heating demand is capped at 15 kWh per square meter of living space per year, and the total primary energy consumption (including heating, hot water, and electricity) is limited to 120 kWh per square meter per year.

Question 4

Is Passivhaus Only for New Buildings?

Accepted Answer

No, Passivhaus principles can be applied to both new builds and renovations. There is a specific standard called EnerPHit for retrofitting existing buildings to Passivhaus standards.

Question 5

Are Passivhaus Buildings More Expensive to Construct?

Accepted Answer

The initial construction costs can be higher, typically 5-10% more than conventional buildings. However, these costs are offset by significantly lower energy bills and increased comfort. Over the building's lifetime, Passivhaus buildings can be more cost-effective.

Question 6

How Do You Achieve Airtightness in a Passivhaus?

Accepted Answer

Airtightness is achieved through meticulous design and construction practices, including:
 • Using airtight membranes and tapes.
 • Careful sealing of all joints and service penetrations.
 • Regular airtightness testing (blower door tests) during construction to ensure the      standards are met.

Question 7

Can Passivhaus Designs Vary Architecturally?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Passivhaus is a performance standard, not a design standard. This means any architectural style or building material can be used as long as the energy performance criteria are met.

Question 8

What is a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) System?

Accepted Answer

MVHR is a system that continuously ventilates a building by extracting stale air and supplying fresh air. It uses the heat from the outgoing air to warm the incoming air, thus maintaining indoor air quality and thermal comfort with minimal energy loss.

Question 9

Do Passivhaus Buildings Need Conventional Heating Systems?

Accepted Answer

Often, they do not need conventional heating systems due to their high efficiency. Small supplementary heating systems or renewable energy sources (like solar panels) are usually sufficient.

Question 10

What Certification is Required for a Passivhaus?

Accepted Answer

Certification is carried out by accredited Passivhaus certifiers who verify that the building meets all Passivhaus standards. The certification process involves rigorous design review and on-site testing.

Question 11

Can Passivhaus Be Applied in Different Climates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Passivhaus principles can be adapted to various climates worldwide. The principles of high insulation, airtightness, and heat recovery ventilation are effective in both cold and warm climates, although specific strategies may vary.

Question 12

What Are the Benefits of Living in a Passivhaus?

Accepted Answer

Benefits include:
 • Extremely low energy bills.
 • Consistently comfortable indoor temperatures.
 • Excellent indoor air quality.
 • Reduced carbon footprint.
 • Enhanced soundproofing due to the high levels of insulation.

Question 13

How Do I Start a Passivhaus Project?

Accepted Answer

Start by consulting with a certified Passivhaus designer or consultant. They can guide you through the design, planning, and construction process to ensure that the Passivhaus standards are met.

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