Description

What are Passive House Windows?

There is no such thing as a passive house window type. The Passive House standard is performance based, not a checklist of specific components to buy. In general, they are characterized by being thermally broken, airtight, and usually triple glazed with the gaps between glass panes filled with argon or krypton gas.

The overall window will boast a low U-value, high R-value, typically maximise solar gain, and minimize heat loss. Indeed, the passive idea is getting the most energy for the least effort or cost, and then maintaining it due to the excellent insulation.

Thus, any window which has a U_w-value of 0.8 W/(m²K) or less is suitable for a passive house. To have a certified passive house, the building’s overall energy use and air leakage are the deciding factors. With regard to passive windows and their thermal performance, the German Passivhaus-Institut notes:

The window frames must be well insulated and fitted with low-e glazing filled with argon or krypton to prevent heat transfer. For most cool-temperate climates, this means a U-value of 0.80 W/(m²K) or less, with G-values around 50%.

Depending on your local climate, budget and component availability, it is also possible to install windows with somewhat higher values and make up for the inefficiency elsewhere in the home.

Details

Solutions for Different Climates

Because temperatures, altitudes and humidity levels differ worldwide, the requirements for windows at say 3,500 metres in the mountains will differ from those at sea level. But whatever your climate, a passive house with its super insulation will maintain steady interior temperatures and comfort regardless of whether you are in a very warm or cold area. Glazing options to maximise or minimize heat gain can be chosen based on this. Those in hot climates will want to reduce solar gain whereas those in cold areas will want to maximise it.

A U_w-factor of 0.8 or below narrows down the choices to uPVC windows with at least 6 chambers or alternatively, uPVC or timber with aluminium cladding. Since U_w-value defines the overall value including glazing and frame, the whole window is important for energy efficiency and performance, not just the glass itself.

assive House Windows at a Glance

General Features	Advantages
Low U-values, U_w-value < 0.8 W/(m²K) High r-value Triple glazing Frame material usually uPVC or aluclad timber/uPVC No thermal bridges Airtight Uses warm edge spacers (thermal spacers) Good solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) / solar energy transmittance	No heat loss through windows Area around window not cold No drafts Stable room temperatures and consistent comfort No heating vent or radiator required near window Lower monthly heating costs Resilience against rising energy prices

Superhouse offers a variety of energy efficient high performance window profiles that meet or beat passive house standards and can deliver them worldwide. They are listed below with average U_w-values.

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Passive House Window

Brand Name: Superhouse
Opening Style: Swing
Material: UPVC
Standard: AS2047, NFRC
Warranty: 10 Years
Application: Residential, Commercial

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Categories: Aluminium Windows & Doors, Passive House Windows

General Features	Advantages
Low U-values, U_w-value < 0.8 W/(m²K) High r-value Triple glazing Frame material usually uPVC or aluclad timber/uPVC No thermal bridges Airtight Uses warm edge spacers (thermal spacers) Good solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) / solar energy transmittance	No heat loss through windows Area around window not cold No drafts Stable room temperatures and consistent comfort No heating vent or radiator required near window Lower monthly heating costs Resilience against rising energy prices