10 Energy Efficient House Features to Transform Your Canberra Home

Looking to play your part in creating a more sustainable future?

Or, maybe you want to reduce your energy costs and take advantage of innovative modern features?

Whatever your goals, the right energy-efficient house features can be the vehicle to take you there.

With a unique climate and commitment to sustainability, Canberra’s home-building industry offers a range of innovative features that can transform houses into energy efficient havens. 

In this guide, we’ll outline 10 energy efficient house features that can make your home a model of sustainability and cost-saving measures.

So if you’re conscious of your carbon footprint and eager to embrace renewable energy solutions, read on to find out how.

If you want to learn more about home designs, check out our other resources:

• How Much Does Home Design Cost in Canberra?
• Top 8 Home Designs
• Is Home Design Worth The Money?
• How Long Should It Take To Design A House?
• What Are The Benefits of A Custom Home Design?
• Exterior Modern House Design Elements

Canberra experiences abundant sunlight, making it an ideal location for solar energy generation. 

Passive home builders can install solar panels on your roof that can significantly reduce your dependence on the grid and lower your electricity bills. Solar power is a clean and renewable source of energy, allowing you to contribute to a greener environment while enjoying the benefits of lower energy costs.

By incorporating passive solar design principles into your home, you can harness the sun’s energy for heating during winters while shading your house from the sun during summers, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. 

This design approach maximises natural lighting, ventilation, and insulation, creating a comfortable and energy efficient living environment.

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Canberra’s extreme temperatures can pose challenges to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

Double glazed windows provide excellent insulation, preventing heat loss during winter and minimising heat gain during summer. They consist of two panes of glass with a layer of gas or air in between, creating an effective barrier against temperature fluctuations. This feature not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances noise reduction, making your home more peaceful.

Adequate insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy consumption.

Properly insulated walls, floors, and roofs can minimise heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Insulation materials like fiberglass, cellulose, and foam help create a thermal barrier, reducing the need for constant heating or cooling and resulting in substantial energy savings.

LED bulbs consume significantly less energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and have a much longer lifespan. Make sure to choose warm white or cool white bulbs based on your preferences.

LED lighting not only saves energy but also emits less heat, reducing the strain on your cooling systems during hot Canberra summers.

Conserving water is as important as saving energy. 

Consider installing water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, and aerated faucets. These features can help you reduce water usage without compromising on functionality. 

Canberra, like many other Australian cities, faces periodic water restrictions, so implementing water-saving measures is not only environmentally responsible but also ensures compliance with local regulations.

PRICE GUIDE: How Much Does a Passive House Cost?

Smart thermostats, lighting systems, and appliances allow you to control and optimise energy usage remotely.

You can program your devices to automatically adjust settings based on occupancy or time of day, maximising energy efficiency. For example, a smart thermostat can learn your temperature preferences and adjust the heating or cooling accordingly, resulting in energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

The ACT receives a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. Harvesting rainwater can help you reduce water bills and reliance on mains water supply.

Consider installing rainwater tanks and use the collected water for non-potable purposes like gardening, toilet flushing, and laundry. Rainwater is free and abundant, and utilising it for everyday tasks reduces the strain on local water sources, making it a sustainable choice for homeowners.

When purchasing new appliances, look for energy efficient models with high star ratings. 

Appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners with higher energy efficiency will not only save you money but also contribute to a greener environment. Energy efficient appliances are designed to consume less energy while delivering the same or even better performance than their less efficient counterparts. 

Look for appliances with energy-saving features such as energy efficient modes, timers, and sensors that optimise energy usage.

Planting trees strategically can provide shade during summer, reducing the need for air conditioning. Additionally, select drought-tolerant plants to minimise water consumption in your garden. 

By incorporating native plants into your landscaping, you can reduce the need for excessive watering, as they are well adapted to the local climate. Consider implementing permeable paving and rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff effectively.

Tips for Building an Energy Efficient Home [POPULAR]

#1 – Energy Monitoring Systems

These systems provide real-time data on your energy usage, allowing you to identify areas of high consumption and make necessary adjustments to reduce wastage. Being aware of your energy usage empowers you to make informed decisions regarding conservation measures.

#2 – Proper Ventilation

Ensure your home is well-ventilated to improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for excessive cooling or heating. Proper ventilation eliminates stale air, controls moisture levels, and prevents the buildup of pollutants, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

#3 – Energy Efficient Roofing

Consider using energy efficient roofing materials that reflect heat rather than absorb it. Light-coloured roofs or cool roofs can significantly reduce the heat absorbed by your home, keeping it cooler during hot summers. This can lead to lower energy consumption for cooling purposes.

#4 – Smart Water Management

Smart irrigation systems, for example, adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture levels, and plant needs. By using water efficiently, you can conserve this valuable resource and minimise wastage.

#5 – Eco-Friendly Materials

Look for materials with low embodied energy, such as recycled or locally sourced materials. 

Sustainable materials not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment by minimising the presence of harmful substances.

By incorporating these energy efficient house features and practices into your home in Canberra, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also save on energy and water bills in the long run. 

Embracing sustainability not only benefits you as a homeowner but also contributes to the overall well-being of the city and the planet. So, whether you’re building a new house or renovating an existing one, make sure to prioritise energy efficiency and be a part of Canberra’s sustainable future.

Remember, small changes can make a big difference. Even if you can’t implement all the features mentioned, starting with a few can go a long way in creating a greener and more energy efficient home. 

Let’s join hands and build a sustainable Canberra for generations to come! Together, we can make a positive impact on our environment and create a better future.

At Canberra Home Builders, we let our work and our expertise do the talking. 

All of our registration numbers are public and easy to check and with a portfolio of past projects, a 6-years structural guarantee, and a 65-day defect period on all new builds, we’re confident  you’ll love the ease and hassle-free approach we bring.

At the same time, we know choosing a home builder is a big decision. So don’t commit to a single thing.

Get in touch today on 02 6171 6104 or request a 100% free home-building consultation to put our skills and price to the test.