At B&S Nelson we are specialists in renovations as many of the homes in our Forster Tuncurry area are older and homeowners are often looking to modernise their space.
One of the main drawbacks of these older homes is their lack of energy efficiency features. Many older homes rely on outdated wiring and electrical fixtures, exhibit various gaps and holes, and frequently lack proper insulation. If you’re contemplating a renovation, an extension, or even a complete rebuild, it’s worthwhile to explore energy-efficient options to enhance your home.
Here are just a few of the ways you can use your renovation to boost your home’s energy efficiency in your renovation:
Insulation
Prioritise insulation when renovating your home, especially if it’s an older property with insufficient or no insulation. A renovation presents an ideal opportunity to evaluate insulation options and incorporate them into the project. Various insulation choices are now available, adaptable to different situations. Consult with your builder to determine the best insulation for your specific needs.
Natural Ventilation and Solar Orientation
Natural ventilation and solar orientation are often underrated in terms of energy efficiency. Older homes may have good cross-ventilation, but it’s not always optimised due to room layouts. During a renovation or addition, you can improve cross-ventilation by reconfiguring rooms and adding more windows. Additionally, you can better utilise solar orientation by relocating rooms to capture more sunlight.
Water Tanks
Adding water tanks is a quick and effective way to enhance energy efficiency. You can install water tanks in your home’s rear or side, or even underground during excavation. Collected rainwater can be used for various purposes, such as irrigation, gardening, pool maintenance, and even flushing toilets. This change can significantly reduce your home’s operating costs.
Water-Saving Devices
Consider incorporating water-saving devices during your renovation. Newer options for fixtures like shower heads with flow restrictors, taps with aerators, and dual flush toilets can save water. Reusing grey-water for gardening is another eco-friendly practice.
Solar Panels
Integrate solar panels into your renovation project to make your home more energy-efficient. Solar panel systems are available in various configurations, including those that feed back into the grid and those with battery storage options.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
When selecting appliances, prioritise energy efficiency. This extends beyond heating and cooling systems to include kitchen appliances, lighting, and other electrical devices. Choose Energy Star-rated appliances and consider LED lighting to reduce power consumption.
Landscaping
Landscaping can play a significant role in enhancing energy efficiency. Planting shade trees strategically can block the sun in summer and allow it to warm your home in winter. Evergreen trees can serve as windbreaks to reduce heating costs, while drought-tolerant plants can save water. Solar-powered outdoor lighting options are also available to reduce energy consumption.
Energy-efficient home renovations are not only achievable but also financially beneficial. The suggestions outlined above will not only make your home more eco-friendly but also contribute to cost savings. Additionally, discussing sustainability measures with your builder, such as recycling or repurposing materials, can reduce your home’s carbon footprint and help protect the environment. Feel free to reach out if you want to learn more about energy-efficient home renovations or sustainable building practices for your renovation project.
At B&S Nelson, we have been renovating the Forster Tuncurry Great Lakes area for over 30 years, and we work hard to understand your needs and ideas. If you are ready to create your coastal oasis, let’s start the planning process today!