No-cost tips - Seek advice on how to maximise energy efficiency in the design of your new home.
- Ensure your windows are north-facing so you get as much sunshine as possible heating your home.
- Trim trees that are blocking sunlight entering your windows.
- Make sure bathrooms, laundries and garages are on the south side of your home and keep windows small to minimise heat loss.
- Consider energy-efficient options for water heating which typically accounts for about a third of a home's power bill.
Low-cost things you can do- Make sure your hot water cylinder and its pipes are insulated.
- When putting up curtains, make sure they're thermal-backed and full-length to keep in the heat.
- If you're installing a shower, make sure it's fitted with a low-flow showerhead.
- Put in energy-efficient lightbulbs when considering lighting options.
- Cover the ground under your home with polythene to help keep your home dry.
Other worthwhile investments- Look at exceeding minimum requirements for insulation in your ceiling, walls and floors.
- Make sure any appliances you buy for your new house are energy-efficient (look for the star rating labels and ENERGY STAR marks).
- Specify a solar water heating system at the outset if possible (the higher initial cost can be made up with power savings in the long run).
- Install a heat pump if possible (the initial cost will be paid off in time through power savings). Flued gas heating or a pellet burner can also be efficient.
- Use high mass materials (such as concrete or brick walls and floor) which absorb heat to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
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