3 tips to make your Melbourne home more energy efficient

The Victorian government is heavily invested in improving the energy efficiency of its residents, with its Victorian Energy Efficiency Target (VEET) scheme kicking off in 2009. Under this scheme, Victorian homeowners and businesses have been encouraged to reduce their environmental footprint and invest in energy efficient alternatives through access to discounted products and services.

An energy efficient home is attractive to buyers who are concerned about their carbon footprint, and who also see the economic benefits of a reduction in energy usage. Investing in alternative energy options, can make a big difference not only to your electricity bill but to the selling potential of your property when you put it on the market.

So how can you improve the energy efficiency of your home? We’ve put together a few ideas:

1. Install solar panels

Many people can be put off installing solar panels to provide energy for their home, as it can be expensive. However, in the long run, the reduction in your energy usage could actually see you spending less on electricity than you did before making the switch.

Your standard 1.5kW solar panel system produces only a third of a Melbourne household’s daily energy consumption, according to Consumer Affairs Victoria.

To get started, find a solar energy panel installer accredited by the Clean Energy Council.

2. Change to LED lighting

LED lights are a more environmentally-friendly option than standard lighting options. They are four to seven times more efficient than halogen lighting the typical incandescent or halogen equivalent and last five to ten times longer.

And you may not even have to pay a cent to make the switch! Under the VEET scheme, you may be able to upgrade your existing halogen lights free of charge.

3. Invest in double glazing or thick curtains

Investing in some double glazing or better curtains can have a tremendous impact on the amount of energy you use. During the colder months, windows let out a lot of heat, and if you don’t have adequate insulation you’ll need to use a lot of energy to heat your home. We all know that this means higher energy bills.

Double glazing will keep the heat inside where it’s most needed – to keep you and your family warm – and will also keep out the cold during those chilly winter nights. However, if you don’t have thousands of dollars to spare, why not purchase some blackout curtains that will minimise the transfer of heat and cold.

The team at Nelson Alexander are always happy to give you more tips on how to make your home more energy efficient. Contact your local agent today to discuss your needs with us.