Insulation
A U-value gives a numeric rating of the amount of heat that passes through the building, therefore the lower the value the better the energy efficiency. All components of a passive house are insulated to achieve a U- factor that does not exceed 0.15 W/ (M2K).
Orientation
Passive use of solar energy is a significant factor in passive house design.The elevation with the largest proportion of glazing should be orientated within 30 degrees of due south.
Energy efficient windows
Windows (glazing and frames, combined) should have a U- factor not exceeding 0.80 W/ (m2 K), making them energy efficient.
Building envelope
Airtightness of the dwelling is paramount. Air leakage through unsealed joints must be less than 0.6 times the house volume per
hour.
Hot water supply
Solar panels or heat pumps provide energy for hot water.
Energy saving appliance
Low energy items such as refrigerators, stoves, freezers, lamps, washers, dryers, etc, are indispensable as the total primary use for all appliances, domestic hot water and space heating and cooling is limited to 120KWH/M2. It can be seen from the above that passive houses are extremely efficient in terms of energy consumption and provide high levels of comfort as well as reducing your carbon footprint.

check out the following websites
www.passivehouse.co.uk
www.europeanpassivehouses.org

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