We built a passive house with a heat pump, heat recovery and solar panels. We were greatly influenced by the business practices of a company that specialized in building passive houses, and we believed that we would save a lot on household running costs. Today, our household running costs may be lower, but the heat pump servicing has become very expensive, so we haven’t saved that much in the end.
Today, I would probably do many things differently, especially the choice of a heat pump. It is a special brand with more complex technology than other heat pumps, so the pump can only be serviced by certified service technicians from that company. The availability of these technicians is very limited, as is the competition, so service prices are very high. If I were to build the house again, I would choose a heating system that any qualified technician can repair.
I would advise others not to build with a small company that uses alternative materials and techniques, but to choose a company with extensive experience in building houses. It is important to check their references. Ideally, the company should build technology that is widely used in Czechia and has a wide range of service options.