Building an Energy Efficient Home
To achieve a sustainable home you need to consider your choices and options for everything from construction materials to energy efficient appliances. Built to maximize sun, natural light and passive ventilation, sustainable homes tread lightly on the land, minimise toxins in the environment and provide homeowners with the benefits of a healthy, energy efficient home.
Comfort
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High level of ceiling insulation with thermal breaks.
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140mm framed exterior walls to allow for extra thick insulation and reduction in thermal bridging.
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Concrete floor slab and foundation fully wrapped with insulation. The floor slab is thicker to provide thermal mass.
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In slab radiant heating
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Large north facing windows to maximize passive heating.
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Double glazed, thermally broken window frames with Low-E glazing.
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Warmth maximising thermal drapes throughout the house.
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Extractor fans in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Sustainability
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Locally sourced cladding from renewable and sustainably managed supplies
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Outdoor washing line
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Vegetable gardens and fruit trees
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Native planting
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The majority of outdoor space to have permeable surfaces (lawns, gardens and paving / decking)
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Space to store recycling
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Worm farm or composting bins
Water
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Water efficient tapware
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Water efficient appliances
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Dual flush toilets
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Efficient showers that use less than 9 litres per minute
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Large tank (underground for aesthetics) for storing rain water. Used for toilets, laundry, hose taps and garden irrigation.
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Water heated by solar panels or heat pump
Energy
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Energy efficient appliances
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LED Lighting throughout the house
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Renewable energy to be generated on site using photovoltaic solar panels on the roof
Tips for creating an energy efficient home
Creating an energy-efficient home not only reduces your environmental impact but also saves you money on utility bills.
By implementing these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating an energy-efficient home that benefits both the environment and your wallet.