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Improving your home’s energy efficiency is good for you, it’s good for the environment, and it might also help increase the value of your home. We're sharing eight easy ideas to save energy and reduce waste at home.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Double-glazed windows are a great way to keep heat from escaping from your home. It works by trapping air between two panes of glass, which act as insulation.
Installing double-glazing is one of the most effective ways to make your home more energy efficient, and it reduces your electricity bill.
Tip: If you can't get new windows but want a similar result, thermal blinds are an alternative option. They're more cost effective than replacing windows and they work in a similar way.
Addressing poor insulation is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Tightening up your home's insulation will help it retain heat and cool more efficiently. By reducing the need for heating and air conditioning, you'll be saving on electricity costs. It can also help improve the general acoustics in your home. It’s best installed in the walls, roof, underfloor and behind any external cladding.
Consider switching to energy-efficient fluorescent or LED lights. Alternatively, installing skylights or renovating windows so they allow more sunlight in during the day will bring a wealth of beautiful natural light into your home, as well as decreasing your electricity bill in the long run.
Solar panels harness the sun’s natural energy and can be used to power fans, split systems, electric ovens, range hoods, induction cooktops and more. This helps to lower your monthly electricity bill and it will pay for itself in a few years' time. Alongside the many environmental benefits, many homeowners find this a great investment because they can also earn money selling excess power to the grid.
Take stock of your existing appliances and determine what needs to be replaced. When investing in new appliances, look for ones that are more energy efficient.
Installing outdoor blinds offers more privacy and also prevents the sun from overheating the inside of your home.
Take note of any gaps around doors and windows that may be allowing heat or cool air to escape. Fix these by using some sealant or weather stripping to help lower your energy costs. Your home will feel less draughty and will stay well insulated during hot and cool days.
You may be using more hot water than you need for each shower. By installing a low-flow showerhead, you can cut down on the amount of water you use, as well as the amount of energy you use to heat that water. This can make a significant difference, especially during winter and/or if you have a large household.
For more renovation inspiration, watch Episode 8: Living room, Kids bedroom and Hallway renovation in our Make It Happen: The House Project series.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
