The terminology ‘Passive House’ has been thrown around quite substantially of late and with good reason. Passive House principals have certainly gained popularity world-wide as a forward-thinking approach to sustainable construction. The term originated in Germany in the 1990s and is now a commonly used term across the globe.
In short, the term defines the use of intelligent design that maximises sustainable and energy efficient environments for patients, staff and other stakeholders. The idea is to maintain a comfortable interior that leaves a smaller footprint than conventional construction techniques.
Here are some ideas on Passive House in Medical Construction:
Insulation
The use of quality insulation is a cornerstone of passive house design. Buildings are designed to minimise heat and cold transfer between inside and outside. More consistent interior temperatures will reduce the need for heating and cooling.
Air-tight
Buildings that are air tight in the medical industry have the benefits of both reducing energy loss as well as minimising infection control as the air is more consistent.
Solar
Good Passive House design will take advantage of Mother Nature’s free commodity. The use of solar energy in heating and for use with other electricity requirements will reduce costs of outgoings.
Regulations and Standards
As regulations and standards become stricter for new constructions, now-days Passive House designs arebecoming stock standard in most designs.
Design
ensure you work with a Passive House Designer – a professional about Passive House principals and performance. Conduct energy modelling with suitable software to ensure compliance to Passive House standards.
Windows and Doors
Double glazing is a minimum to ensure airtight seals to minimise heat loss.
Natural Light
Use Mother Nature’s light in place of interior lighting. This is an obvious suggestion and used quite widely to reduce the cost of utility bills.
Quality assurance and Testing
Over the construction there are tests that are undertaken to test compliance. Often the blower door test is undertaken to measure air-tight rooms. Then thermal imaging is undertaken, to identify heat loss. Various other tests are undertaken to ensure Passive House standards are passed.
Overall, Passive House design will prioritise the use of energy efficient techniques in building and construction in the attempt to leave the smallest footprint possible. It is important to remember that the restraints are limited to budget and also limited to available technology and training. Not all ideas and techniques that are used around the globe are available in Australia at the current time.
In this ever-improving environment the ability to achieve a Passive House design is always changing. But what an exciting time to be considering using Passive House Design in your new medical project.
Call us today to chat with one of our qualified passive house designers.
