What is a Passive House?

This definition is taken from the Passive House Institute US web page.

"A Passive House is a very well-insulated, virtually air-tight building that is primarily heated by passive solar gain and by internal gains from people, electrical equipment, etc. Energy losses are minimized. Any remaining heat demand is provided by an extremely small source. Avoidance of heat gain through shading and window orientation also helps to limit any cooling load, which is similarly minimized. An energy recovery ventilator provides a constant, balanced fresh air supply. The result is an impressive system that not only saves up to 90% of space heating costs, but also provides a uniquely terrific indoor air quality."

17 December 2009

8th Post - What's up?

We are finalizing all of our plans and receiving bids from builders and carpentry cabinetmakers. So it seems like we are in slow motion but things are happening. I am trying to make decisions on cabinets, shelves, windows, sinks, faucets, tile designs and many others. We still have to have our plans OK’d by the city. Wow, it takes a lot of time! We really thought that we would be in the middle of construction by now. But when designing your own home it just takes more time.
Don’t give up on our blog. It will become interesting when the building starts to happen, but for now it looks like it may not take place until January or February.
I am done fabricating the metal for the light sconces and I am working on the glass domes. The first one will be ready to share after the holidays. We hope you have a great time with family and friends!

Be Blue - Protect our sky - If you have christmas tree lights on your house, make sure you turn them off before you go to bed! Remember, if they are on, a coal burning plant is spewing out emissions to keep them on.