Insulation 
Almost like being wrapped in a blanket of insulation. Its used in the walls, floor and ceiling. Adequate insulation is the first step in minimizing heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.

High Quality Windows and Doors 
The Passivhaus Institute stipulates that window frames must be well insulated, and fitted with double glazing or low-emissivity glass (this is a very thin coat that reflects heat).

Eliminate Thermal Bridges 
This refers to points in the building shell that conduct heat or cold more quickly than the rest of the structure. For example, a metal wall framing “bridges” between interior and exterior wall linings. Heat or cold will transfer along this point, and it compromises the overall performance of your insulation. Think of a cold patch in your house.

Airtightness 
You don’t want any drafts coming in or air leaking out. This means ensuring every joint Is perfectly sealed over, and there are no gaps within the skin of the building.

Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) 
The flow of air in and out of a passive house is controlled with an HRV system. It flushes stale air out and replaces it with a constant supply of fresh, temperature-controlled, filtered air. It stops the house from getting stuffy, improves the overall air quality, and, in cold weather, prevents the build up of condensation. The HRV incorporates a heat exchanger, so incoming fresh air is almost the same temperature as the air that’s being flushed out.

Passive Solar Management
Captures sunlight in the winter and shade in the summer. The captured sunlight heats the building and the sunlight shading cools the building.