What is the EnerPHit Standard?

The EnerPHit standard is a high-performance energy efficiency standard specifically designed for refurbishing existing buildings. It is based on the principles of the Passivhaus standard but adapted for older buildings where meeting full Passivhaus requirements may not always be possible.

EnerPHit is recognised as one of the best ways to upgrade an existing property to be more comfortable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Key Features of the EnerPHit Standard

To achieve the EnerPHit standard, buildings need to follow similar principles to Passivhaus but with some flexibility to accommodate the challenges of retrofitting. The key elements include:

1. Improved Insulation – The building is upgraded with high-quality insulation to reduce heat loss through the walls, roof, and floors. While it may not always be possible to achieve the same insulation levels as a new Passivhaus, improvements are still significant.
2. Airtightness – Existing buildings are made as airtight as possible by sealing gaps and cracks to prevent unwanted draughts. This helps maintain a stable indoor temperature and reduces the need for excessive heating or cooling.
3. High-Performance Windows and Doors – Installing triple-glazed windows and well-insulated doors greatly improves the building’s energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and preventing cold spots.
4. Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) – An MVHR system is used to provide fresh air while recovering heat from outgoing air. This helps maintain good indoor air quality without losing valuable warmth.
5. Minimising Thermal Bridges – Energy-efficient renovations focus on reducing thermal bridges—areas where heat can escape easily, such as around windows and at junctions between walls and floors.

Benefits of the EnerPHit Standard

• Lower Energy Bills – By improving insulation and airtightness, an EnerPHit home requires much less energy for heating and cooling, leading to significant savings on energy bills.
• More Comfortable Living Spaces – With fewer draughts, cold spots, and overheating, the indoor temperature remains stable throughout the year.
• Better Indoor Air Quality – The use of MVHR ensures a constant supply of fresh, filtered air, reducing humidity and the risk of mould.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint – By using less energy, an EnerPHit building has a lower environmental impact, helping to reduce CO2 emissions.
• Increased Property Value – An energy-efficient home can be more attractive to buyers and may increase in value over time.

Is the EnerPHit Standard Right for Your Home?

The EnerPHit standard is ideal for homeowners looking to make major energy efficiency improvements to an existing building.

While it may not always be possible to achieve full Passivhaus levels of performance, EnerPHit provides a practical and effective way to upgrade an older home.

The process often involves a combination of external and internal insulation, new windows, and improved ventilation systems to significantly enhance comfort and efficiency.

EnerPHit is a great option for those houses where the Passivhaus standard isn’t possible to achieve

EnerPHit is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to transform an existing home into a high-performance, energy-efficient space.

While full Passivhaus certification might not always be possible in older buildings, EnerPHit offers a practical alternative that still delivers excellent results.

With rising energy costs and increasing awareness of sustainability, EnerPHit retrofits are becoming an attractive choice for homeowners in the UK and beyond.