Can I renovate my home to Passive House standards?
As climate change concerns grow and energy costs continue to rise, many homeowners in the Illawarra are looking for ways to make their existing homes more energy-efficient and comfortable. The Passive House standard, known for its ultra-low energy consumption and superior indoor comfort, has caught the attention of environmentally conscious and comfort-seeking homeowners alike.
But if you already own a home, especially one whose façade you can’t or don’t want to alter, you might wonder: Is it possible to renovate my current home to meet these stringent standards? The good news is that there's a solution tailored specifically for renovations: EnerPHit.
What is EnerPHit?
EnerPHit is a certification developed by the Passive House Institute specifically for retrofitting existing buildings to Passive House standards. It recognises the unique challenges of working with older structures and offers a more flexible approach to achieving high energy efficiency.
Key features of EnerPHit include:
Slightly relaxed criteria compared to new-build Passive House standards
Tailored approach for existing buildings
Option for step-by-step certification
Climate-specific targets
How does EnerPHit work?
EnerPHit focuses on several key areas:
Insulation: Improving the thermal envelope of your home
Airtightness: Reducing unwanted air leakage
Ventilation: Installing heat recovery ventilation systems
Windows and doors: Upgrading to double or triple glaze Passive House certified windows and doors
Thermal bridge-free design: Minimising heat loss through building components
The EnerPHit process: What to expect
Initial assessment: A thorough evaluation of your current home, including energy performance, structural integrity, and potential challenges.
Planning and design: Developing a comprehensive renovation plan that addresses all aspects of the EnerPHit standard.
Phased implementation: EnerPHit allows for step-by-step implementation, which can be beneficial for budgeting and minimising disruption.
Quality assurance: Regular checks and tests ensure that the renovation meets the required standards.
Certification: Upon completion, your home can receive official EnerPHit certification.
Energy efficient renovation with EnerPHit
Renovating your existing home to EnerPHit standards is not only possible but can be an excellent way to combine energy efficiency with utilising existing resources. While it requires careful planning and investment, the results – a comfortable, energy-efficient, healthy and durable home – can be truly rewarding.
By choosing EnerPHit, you're not just upgrading your home; you're making a lasting contribution to a more sustainable Illawarra.
Whether you're dealing with a heritage-listed property or simply want to avoid the waste of demolition, EnerPHit offers a path to Passive House performance that works with your existing home.
Hi, we’re Amity Builders
We’re a passionate bunch who are tired of seeing homeowners around Australia settle for subpar living conditions. We combine our love for building, building science, and building relationships to create healthy, comfortable, and energy efficient living experiences for people. We’d love to get to know you!
