Whether you own or rent, there are steps you can take to use less energy.
Insulation and draught proofing are essential for keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. They also help reduce energy bills.
Insulation
Insulation in the roof, walls and floors reduces heat-flow into and out of your home. If your insulation has been installed for a long time, however, it may not be working properly.
Installing
If you plan to install insulation yourself, be sure you can do it safely. If you are unsure about any aspect of the job, contact a professional. Insulation and installation also needs to adhere to Building Codes of Australia regulations and relevant Australian standards.
When choosing insulation, the most important factor is the R-value, which measures a material’s capacity to resist heat flow. The greater the value, the better the insulation and the lower your power bill.
Insulation depends on the climate
Bulk insulation is suited to colder climates – like a doona, it traps air in still layers. It can be made of materials such as fibreglass, polyester and natural wool and comes in batts, blankets or loose fill.
Check for draughts
By blocking draughts you will prevent heat loss in winter and warm air flowing inside in summer. Your home will be more comfortable and you’ll save on electricity.
Look for obvious gaps around windows, skirting boards, doors and skylights – anywhere there are joins. Feel for moving air, check for visible light or moving curtains and listen for rattles or whistling wind.
Other helpful hints include: Windows and skylights – check frames and seals; floorboards and skirting boards – fill and seal gaps and replace missing boards; walls – fill cracks and look for gaps where walls meet the ceiling or cornices; doors – add rubber door seals to the bottom of external doors; appliances that connect to walls – check seals around air conditioning units, pipes and flues; and fireplaces – block unused chimneys with a damper or balloon.
For other helpful hints, visit energy.nsw.gov.au.
