Energy efficiency tips to save you money

Are you planning to build a new home in Perth? With our harsh summer climate, it can be tough to keep energy costs down in summer, while also keeping your home warm in winter. While initially building a home can be expensive, we have put together some tips to create an energy efficient home, which will save you money in the long run.

Window Film

The benefits of solar window film are well documented. Solar window film is the best way to efficiently keep your home cool, with the film blocking up to 78% of solar heat and up to 99% of harmful UV rays. It’s a great way to keep your home cool, while also allowing you to keep the blinds open and enjoy the summer days from the comfort of your home. There are many options available, including tinted, frosted and privacy films, so you can select a film that is right for the look and feel of your new home.

Insulation

A well-insulated home, is one of the best ways to keep your home energy efficient. Correctly insulating your walls and ceilings will ensure your home remains cool in summer, by reducing the amount of heat entering your home. It will also have the added benefit of retaining the warmth during the winter months.

Solar Hot Water

Given the amazing amount of sun we receive in Perth, all year round, it makes sense to capitalise on this, and save on energy costs. A solar hot water system uses the energy produced by the sun to warm your household water. Using a solar hot water system can halve your water heating costs, which will certainly produce some cost efficiencies in the long run.

Check the Rating

You will have seen that all appliances in Australia, are awarded an Energy Efficiency Rating. It pays to choose your appliances carefully, with this rating in mind. This includes appliances such as your white goods (washing machine, dishwasher etc), along with your homes’ fittings, such as waterwise shower heads to reduce water bills and LED lightbulbs, to save on your power bills.

Waterwise Gardens

As mentioned, Perth gets some great, hot summers, which can prove costly, when it comes to maintaining your gardens. Rather than trying to keep large lawns and gardens hydrated in summer, consider some creative alternatives, including native shrubs and ground coverings, which are naturally designed to withstand the summer months. The Water Corporation have some great tips on how to create a visually appealing, water efficient garden.

Building your new home, with energy efficiency in mind, will save not only your wallet, but also the planet, in the long run.