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They are constructions created with bioclimatic criteria designed to the millimeter to reduce energy consumption to the maximum
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Thanks to the insulation and orientation of its windows they do not need heating or air conditioning
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Tell me how old your house is and I'll tell you what reforms you need to do to be happier
Passive houses are a phenomenon that is beginning to be fashionable and that seems unstoppable. If you have not yet heard of them you should know that they are constructions created with bioclimatic criteria. At first glance they are not distinguished from the rest, but in them everything is designed to the millimeter to reduce consumption to the maximum. In fact, their owners can save up to 70 percent on energy.
They are smart consumption houses planned so that they maintain a comfortable temperature inside throughout the year without the need for heating or air conditioning. The insulation and orientation of its windows, among other aspects, allow them to remain above 21ºC in winter and 26ºC in summer.
Up to six times lower consumption
The idea is not only to apply the concept to new construction, but to rehabilitate existing homes seeking the greatest efficiency. The initial expense may be high, but in the long run it pays off. A passive house consumes up to six times less than a conventional one, a not insignificant fact in a context of energy crisis such as the current one.
The concept was born in Germany in the nineties. It was formalized with the creation of the Passivhaus-Institut, which issues official certifications for the constructions that decide to have it.
Energy saving mechanisms
The Cuatro program 'En boca de todos' visited the home of Sara, owner of a passive house in Villanueva de la Cañada, in Madrid. The architect of this property is Lorena Pascual, who had some of the mechanisms it has to save energy. One of them is to place large windows in a southerly direction to make the most of solar energy passively .
On the other hand, to ventilate the rooms in this construction it is not necessary to open the windows directly, but fans with heat are used that shake the air that is introduced into the house.
Make our house passive
How much would it cost us to turn our current house into a passive house? "From 500 euros per square meter," responds the architect. For this there are several aids to which consumers can be ascribed, both European and national: "There is a direct aid in reducing personal income tax just to improve the label of the energy certificate".
The objective is that over time all homes are rehabilitated according to the principles of construction of passive houses. Concepts such as insulation, the amplitude of windows and or the appropriate orientation can be applied to any property, which ends up benefiting both our pocket and the environment.
