PHPP turns a building description into a coordinated energy balance. Its usefulness depends on reliable inputs and explicit assumptions.
The tool
The Passive House Planning Package is PHI’s calculation package for energy-efficient design. Keep the model aligned with changes to geometry and specifications.
Input data
Inputs include climate, geometry, consistently measured areas, assemblies, windows, shading, bridges and services. Record provisional values and test how strongly they affect the result.
Heating and cooling
The balance shows how losses and gains affect demand. It does not replace a detailed heating design covering distribution, hydraulics and controls.
Ventilation
Heat recovery and fan energy inputs should reflect the equipment and operating conditions. The model does not replace duct design, acoustic assessment or commissioned airflow measurements.
Solar gains and shading
Include orientation, glazing and actual shading obstacles. Compare cases with and without external shading to understand summer comfort implications.
Hot water and electricity
Hot-water storage and distribution losses remain relevant in an efficient home. Coordinate use assumptions, pipe routes and system parameters.
Model boundaries
PHPP does not verify structural capacity, electrical protection or every moisture mechanism within a detail. Add specialist calculations where the design presents a specific risk.
Certification and wider design use
The model can compare options without making a certification claim. Certification also needs the required construction evidence and review through the authorised process.
| Item | Parameter | Check / result |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry | Areas and boundaries | Drawing check |
| Components | Properties | Product data |
| Scenarios | Occupancy | Assumptions |
What this means for your project
Provide a coordinated drawing revision and a list of unresolved inputs. Request option comparisons and an explanation of sensitivity, not just the final file.
Sources and scope of review
Related reading
- What Is a Passive House? Principles Without Marketing Myths
- Passive House Classic, Plus and Premium: What Changes
- R-Value and U-Value: How to Read Thermal Performance