Passive House Principles: Creating Healthier Homes for the Ultimate Form Of Wealth
Passive House Principles: Creating Healthier Homes for the Ultimate Form Of Wealth
Without our health. We have nothing. At MA Building, we strongly believe health is the ultimate form of wealth.
When it comes to our homes, health should be a top priority. Passive House principles offer a revolutionary approach to building design that promotes not only energy efficiency but also creates healthier living environments.
In terms of warmth, air quality, dampness and humidity control, and protection against heat waves, Passive Houses in New Zealand are gaining recognition for their ability to enhance the overall well-being of occupants. This article delves into the reasons why Passive House principles contribute to healthier homes and cites relevant studies and articles to support these claims.
Optimal Warmth:
Let’s be honest. With up to 40 degree temperature swings from Summer to Winter, Passive house principles make more sense in Wanaka than potentially many other places in the country. Winter illnesses, particularly in the younger and older populations can be exacerbated by cold temperatures permeating the home.
Passive Houses excel at providing a warm and cosy living space, even during the coldest winter months. The careful integration of high-quality insulation, airtightness, and thermal bridge-free construction ensures minimal heat loss. Our current build sits at between 18 and 20 degrees in the middle of winter with one small heater (whilst we build).
It’s not just us who thinks so. According to a study by the Passive House Institute, this meticulous design can lead to energy savings of up to 90% compared to conventional buildings, resulting in comfortable indoor temperatures and reduced reliance on heating systems.
Enhanced Air Quality:
Indoor air quality plays a crucial role in maintaining good health.
Passive Houses prioritise fresh, clean air through mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery. These systems filter and distribute fresh air while simultaneously expelling stale air. By exchanging heat between the outgoing and incoming air streams, Passive Houses efficiently maintain optimal indoor air quality, free from pollutants, allergens, and excess moisture.
Keen to dive deeper? We are!
Pathogens and Allergens: Indoor air can harbour various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi, which can lead to respiratory infections and allergies.
In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of airborne transmission has been widely recognised. Passive Houses, with their emphasis on effective ventilation and filtration systems, help mitigate the spread of airborne pathogens and allergens, reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Indoor Pollutants: VOCs and other indoor pollutants, such as formaldehyde and radon, can be emitted from building materials, furniture, cleaning products, and other sources. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can cause various health issues, including respiratory irritation, allergies, and even chronic diseases. Passive Houses, with their airtight construction and controlled ventilation systems, help minimize the infiltration of outdoor pollutants and effectively filter indoor air, ensuring a healthier indoor environment.
Lifestyle Changes and Indoor Air Quality: Modern lifestyles often involve spending a significant amount of time indoors, whether for work, leisure, or rest. This increased indoor occupancy can lead to higher exposure to indoor air pollutants and a greater need for healthy indoor environments. Passive Houses, with their focus on fresh air supply and effective filtration, help create a space where occupants can breathe clean and healthy air, promoting overall well-being.
Vulnerable Populations: Certain individuals, such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, are more susceptible to the effects of poor indoor air quality. Ensuring a healthy indoor environment becomes even more crucial for these vulnerable populations. Passive Houses, with their optimized ventilation systems and reduced exposure to pollutants, provide a safer and healthier living space for those who are most at risk.
Long-Term Health Benefits: Good indoor air quality not only prevents immediate health issues but also contributes to long-term health benefits. Chronic exposure to poor air quality can lead to the development of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other chronic conditions. By prioritising air quality through Passive House principles, occupants can enjoy improved respiratory health, enhanced immune function, and a reduced risk of long-term health complications.
Control of Dampness and Humidity:
Excessive dampness and high humidity levels can lead to mould growth and contribute to respiratory issues.
Passive Houses excel in controlling moisture levels through airtight construction and vapour barriers. This prevents the infiltration of moisture from outside and ensures a controlled indoor environment.
The combination of effective insulation and ventilation systems also helps to minimize condensation, reducing the risk of mold and mildew formation.
Protection against Heat Waves:
Heat waves can be as damaging to our health as extreme cold. As we mentioned, 40 degree temperature swings mean that during the summer months Wanaka can easily hit temperatures of 35 degrees celsius.
Passive Houses are designed to provide thermal comfort even during hot summer months. Through careful insulation, shading elements, and proper orientation, these homes minimize heat gain from the outside.
This allows occupants to enjoy a cool and comfortable indoor environment without relying heavily on air conditioning systems, which helps reduce energy consumption and supports sustainable living.
So, Want To Build A Healthier Home?
Passive House principles offer a holistic approach to creating healthier homes. With their optimal warmth, enhanced air quality, control of dampness and humidity, and protection against heat waves, Passive Houses in New Zealand are gaining recognition for their positive impact on occupants' well-being. As home buyers and builders increasingly prioritize health and well-being, embracing Passive House principles becomes an essential step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable future.
Remember, health is the ultimate form of wealth, and Passive Houses provide a path to achieving it within our homes.
Reference:
Reid, A. (2019). Dampness, Mold and Indoor Air Quality. University of Otago. Retrieved from https://www.otago.ac.nz/healthsciences/expertise/environmentalhealth/otago692117.pdf
Matzarakis, A., Mayer, H., & Iziomon, M. G. (1999). Applications of a Universal Thermal Index: Physiological Equivalent Temperature. International Journal of Biometeorology, 43(2), 76–84. doi: 10.1007/s004840050141
Kolarik, J., & Wargocki, P. (2013). Literature Survey on How Different Factors Influence Human Comfort in Indoor Environments. Indoor Air, 23(6), 436–456. doi: 10.1111/ina.12042
Passive House Institute. (2019). Energy Efficiency First: The Passive House Path. Retrieved from https://www.passivehouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/190619_PH_EE_Folder_E.pdf