PASSIVE HOMES
EFFICIENT. COMFORTABLE. AFFORDABLE. ECOLOGICAL.
What is Passive House?
Passive House is a high-performance building standard designed to significantly reduce energy consumption while maximizing occupant comfort. In both hot and cold climates, Passive House buildings can achieve up to 90% energy savings for heating and cooling compared to conventional construction.
In Canada, a typical newly constructed home may require approximately 140 kWh/m² per year for heating. A Passive House, by comparison, is designed to require no more than 15 kWh/m² per year. That's up to a 90% reduction in heating energy while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature of 20°C.
How Does It Work?
1. Building Orientation
The first consideration is the building's orientation. With so many sunny days in the Bow Valley, we can take advantage of the sun's free energy by positioning buildings and windows to maximize southern exposure and passive solar gain. Careful design is essential, however, to prevent overheating during the summer months.
2. A High-Performance Building Envelope
The building envelope consists of the walls, roof, and floors that separate indoor and outdoor environments. These components must be exceptionally well insulated and airtight to minimize heat loss. High-performance triple-pane windows are also essential. A simpler building form, with fewer corners, jogs, and bump-outs, helps reduce thermal weak points and improve overall efficiency.
3. Heat Recovery Ventilation
Because Passive House buildings require very little heating, conventional furnaces may not be necessary. However, a continuous supply of fresh air is essential. Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) or Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) exchange stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air while recovering heat from the outgoing air. This provides consistent ventilation without wasting valuable energy.
The Benefits
The result is a home that is not only more energy efficient but also significantly more comfortable. High-performance insulation and triple-pane windows reduce outside noise, while airtight construction eliminates drafts and cold spots. Indoor temperatures remain consistent, floors stay warmer, and fresh air is continuously circulated throughout the home.
Does It Cost More?
The upfront cost of building to the Passive House standard is typically higher than conventional construction, with estimates often around 8% more. This reflects additional planning, insulation, airtightness detailing, labour, and high-performance windows.
However, these initial costs are offset over time through significantly reduced heating and cooling expenses. Combined with improved comfort, durability, and lower environmental impact, Passive House is a smart long-term investment in how we build and live.