This six-hour course provides a comprehensive understanding of the Passive House Standard and focuses on its design and construction. The course explores the principles of passive design, architectural elements, and mechanical systems, along with strategies for optimizing energy performance.

The course also examines certification criteria, building codes, and standards related to passive house and energy-efficient design.

Through a blend of building science theory and practical application, professionals will learn how to optimize the building envelope to manage heat, air, and moisture effectively. The content covers the evolution of Passive House from its origins to the specific requirements of North American climate zones, moving through the critical components of the "perfect wall," the elimination of thermal bridges, and the science behind airtight construction. Instructors also provide detailed insights into mechanical system integration and the financial viability of high-performance builds.

This course covers the following key topics:

• PHIUS Principles and History: Understanding the development of the standard, climate-specific targets, and the path to net-zero energy.
• Building Envelope Mastery: Strategies for continuous insulation, advanced framing, vapor profiles, and the elimination of thermal bridges in walls, roofs, and slabs.
• Fenestration and Solar Control: Selecting and installing high-performance windows and doors based on U-values, Solar Heat Gain Coefficients (SHGC), and shading strategies for different climates.
• Air Tightness and Ventilation: The importance of the blower door test and implementing balanced ventilation systems using Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs).
• Mechanical Systems: Sizing and selecting efficient heating and cooling equipment, including mini-splits and ground source heat pumps, as well as efficient hot water distribution.
• Solar and Net Zero Integration: Designing for passive solar gain and integrating active renewable energy systems like solar PV to achieve zero energy status.
• Case Studies: An in-depth look at real-world projects, including a duplex in Houston (Climate Zone 2) and a home in Pennsylvania (Climate Zone 5), analyzing their assemblies, performance data, and lessons learned.

Ideal for architects, engineers, builders, and energy consultants, this course provides the technical knowledge necessary to design durable, healthy, and resilient structures that meet the newest Passive House standards.