5 Passive Home Myths Debunked by Sydney’s Expert Builders

27 Aug 5 Passive Home Myths Debunked by Sydney’s Expert Builders

As people seek better ways to improve energy efficiency in their homes, the spotlight often turns to passive homes. This sustainable and efficient building option is growing in popularity among eco-conscious homeowners. As expert passive house builders in Sydney, we get plenty of questions about this housing option, many of which we have addressed in this handy guide. 

These questions have led us to realise that there are many misconceptions about this eco-friendly housing option out there, which we dispel here.

Myth 1: Passive Homes Are Too Expensive to Build

Specialised materials are used when building a passive home, and this does add to the initial cost of the build. What one needs to bear in mind, though, is that there are significant cost savings to be enjoyed going forward. 

Specific calculations can be done for your design, but in general, you can expect to save up to 90% on your current energy bills, quickly offsetting the initially higher outlay.

Myth 2: Passive Homes Feel Claustrophobic 

While it is true that passive homes work on a sophisticated ventilation system, they are not stuffy and airless. It is this very ventilation system that ensures that an abundance of fresh air enters the home. 

The heat recovery ventilation system (HRV) cools or heats the incoming air (depending on the season) using the heat or cool of the outgoing air! Very clever indeed. 

Myth 3: Passive Homes Are Not Suited to Australian Climates

Designed in Germany, many believe these homes are only suited to cold climates. They can, however, be adapted to suit any environment, from freezing cold to scorching hot and provide a comfortable atmosphere in the home all year around. 

Myth 4: Windows Cannot Be Opened in a Passive Home

Passive homes are designed to minimise heat loss or gain through their clever ventilation systems, glazing and shading options, which means that the need to open a window for ventilation is largely unnecessary. 

That said, you are entirely free to open the windows of your passive home as and when you like.

Myth 5: Passive Homes Are Aesthetically Unappealing

Designs for passive homes have changed a great deal since the first ones were built in the 1980s. House design, in general, has also changed a lot since then. If you are looking for a stylish passive home, then you have come to the right place. 

As building experts in the field, we can suggest a wide range of looks and finishes to ensure that your passive home is also the house of your dreams.

Are you ready to embark on this energy-saving journey and reduce your carbon footprint? Contact Holder Homes, your expert passive house builder in Sydney, for a free consultation.