Since lately, Australian homeowners are concerned about the environmental friendliness and energy efficiency of their homes. This is why so many are making better choices and building energy-efficient houses.
Since lately, Australian homeowners are concerned about the environmental friendliness and energy efficiency of their homes. This is why so many are making better choices and building energy-efficient houses.
What is an Energy Efficient Home?
An energy-efficient home simply uses less energy to achieve the same outcomes. All new homes need to comply with the 6-star standard in the National Construction Code. But just a one-star increase can reduce your heating and cooling energy needs and energy bills considerably.
Here, we share some helpful tips on how to design an energy-efficient house plan, lower your power bills and minimise your carbon footprint. Read on!
What is an Energy Efficient Home?
An energy-efficient home simply uses less energy to achieve the same outcomes. All new homes need to comply with the 6-star standard in the National Construction Code. But just a one-star increase can reduce your heating and cooling energy needs and energy bills considerably.
Go for LED lighting and downlights to minimise energy use
Lighting accounts for 12% of Australia’s energy usage so when it comes to installing or changing lightbulbs, LED lights should be your first choice. LED is the most energy-efficient form of lighting on the market, minimising energy consumption and delivering exceptional light output at the same time. Plus, LED downlights look sleek and stylish embedded into the ceiling, so it’s a win-win situation!
Fix solar panels
Do you know that millions of solar power systems had been installed across Australia and the numbers are rising rapidly year round? Considering the fact that solar panels have a payback period of three to five years (without a battery), the investment is well worth it.
Solar panels are one of the most cost-effective options for renewable energy in your home — in fact, they have the potential to reduce or eliminate your power bill altogether. These panels can power lighting, heating and cooling systems, appliances and hot water, so you can reduce your carbon footprint and your expenses.
Use double-glazed windows to lower power bills
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that standard glass can be a poor insulator for their homes. Heat transfers quite quickly through standard glass windows in winter, meaning your home is losing warmth and your heaters/air conditioning has to work much harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Instead, we recommend opting for double-glazed windows to improve your home’s heat retention capabilities in winter and keep hot air out in summer. Thanks to double-glazed windows, your home will be protected against heat and cold up to four times more effectively than standard-glazed windows.
Make cross-ventilation easy with high ceilings
To help minimise costly air conditioning and fan use in your home, we recommend opting for high ceilings and wide hallways — this will allow more air to circulate and cool down your home.
Solar panels are one of the most cost-effective options for renewable energy in your home — in fact, they have the potential to reduce or eliminate your power bill altogether. These panels can power lighting, heating and cooling systems, appliances and hot water, so you can reduce your carbon footprint and your expenses.
Be Mindful of your Hot Water Usage
Heating water accounts for a fair percentage of the energy used in the average Australian home, and is the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions from home energy use. Electric water heaters in particular contribute to these high emissions. Reducing hot water use and using renewable energy sources to heat water are effective ways to reduce your environmental impact.
Talk to LEXMO HOMES about improving the energy efficiency of your new or existing home.
At LEXMO HOMES, we’re committed to building dream homes and for many, energy efficiency and environmental friendliness are a big part of that. We work with expert professional staff to ensure we can deliver energy efficiency with style.
