Passive House — What is it, and why do I keep hearing about it?
It’s not uncommon to hear about new and improved ways to cut down energy consumption in your home, no matter the location, size, or type. However, you may have started to hear more and more about Passive Houses. But what exactly are they?
Passive houses are thermally optimized and utilize free energy— or, “passive” heat— to maintain energy balance. Temperatures in the home remain constant throughout the entire year, without the assistance of heaters and air conditioners. Richard Dalton, a Brennan real estate agent, long time real estate investor and developer, and also a New York Passive House member, gives us insight on the principles, benefits, and breakdown of Passive Houses.
PRINCIPLES
Thermally Optimized: Super insulated and tight buildings reduce energy transfer to the outside through conduction, convection and radiation
Uses Free Energy: “Passive” heat from appliances, occupants and the sun are factored into overall energy balance
Mechanical Lungs: Continuous ventilation uses energy recovery to pre-condition fresh air, thus reducing load for “active” conditioning
Integrated Design: Comprehensive energy model grounded in building science, not experimental technology
BENEFITS
Efficient: Requires 75+% less “active” energy than building to code so provides a path to net zero
Comfortable: No drafts or cold spots near windows and reduced street noise
Healthy: Constant supply of filtered fresh air even with windows closed
Durable: Design modeling and tight construction reduce potential for failure with easy verification as construction progresses
HOW?
Open Architecture: Performance-based standard provides ample flexibility in terms of aesthetic design and material choices
Plan Early: Most effective if factored into initial design for renovation projects or, earlier still, when home shopping
Find Out More: We are fortunate to belong to a collaborative and passionate local community so feel free to reach out with questions or visit https://nypassivehouse.org/
Have questions about Passive Houses? Email info@BrennanRE.com to learn more!
