As homeowners, we all want to make our homes as energy efficient as possible. By doing so, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also save money on energy bills. However, achieving energy efficiency requires an understanding of where energy is gained and lost in our homes. In this blog post, we’ll explore the areas where energy is gained and lost in Canberra homes.
- Up to 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through poorly insulated walls.
- Up to 25% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through the roof.
- Up to 20% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through windows and doors.
- Up to 15% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through the floor.
- Up to 90% of a home’s heat gain in summer is through windows.
- Up to 50% of a home’s heat gain in summer is through the roof.
According to the ACT Government’s Your Home website, around 40% of the energy used in a typical Canberra home is for heating and cooling. This energy loss occurs mainly through the roof and walls, which are responsible for around 25% and 15% of energy loss, respectively. Windows and doors account for another 10% of energy loss.
Insulating the roof and walls of your home is the most effective way to prevent heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer. Ceiling insulation, in particular, is essential, with around 25% of energy loss occurring through an uninsulated ceiling. In Canberra’s climate zone, the National
Construction Code (NCC) recommends a minimum R5 insulation rating for bulk insulation in the ceiling. By ensuring that your home meets or exceeds this rating, you can significantly reduce energy loss through the roof and walls.
Windows and doors are also major areas of energy loss. Single-glazed windows are particularly inefficient, with up to 90% of heat loss occurring through them. Double-glazed windows, on the other hand, can reduce heat loss by up to 60%. Installing draught seals around doors and windows can also help to prevent energy loss.
Another area where energy is gained or lost is through ventilation. In a well-insulated home, it’s essential to have a proper ventilation system to ensure fresh air circulates without causing significant heat loss. The ACT Government’s Your Home website recommends using a balanced mechanical ventilation system, which can recover up to 85% of the energy used to heat or cool the home.
In summary, energy loss occurs mainly through the roof, walls, windows, and doors of Canberra homes. Insulating the roof and walls, upgrading to double-glazed windows, and installing draught seals can significantly reduce energy loss. It’s also essential to have proper ventilation to ensure fresh air circulates without causing significant heat loss. By taking these steps, you can make your home more energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint while saving money on energy bills.
If you’re looking to reduce energy loss and gain in your Canberra home, consider contacting Cozy Insulation Canberra Canberra. Our experienced team can assess your home’s insulation needs and recommend the best solution to improve energy efficiency, comfort, and health in your home. Contact us today for a free quote!