Potential homeowners face a wide variety of tasks to consider before moving into their new address. Among these is the installation of cellular shades, mineral wool insulation, underfloor heating, etc.
While many will feel that this is an overwhelming task, it can be made easier by understanding how your home operates and what you can do to improve it before moving in. This article highlights 3 of the essential changes you can make to ensure that your new home is healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
Insulation standards fall short
Most homes are built with insulation installed, but it is not nearly enough. Most insulation falls very short of what is required. The Government has done remarkably little in this area. They have a guideline on energy-efficient homes that is more of a suggestion than a requirement.
This means that many homes are built to this guideline, and some may not be insulated at all. If you want your new home to have good insulation, it is best to visit the site before the insulation is installed.
You can then confirm that the correct amount of insulation is installed, meeting the energy-efficient homes guideline. Insulation performs best when it’s thick, so avoid having any large voids in your building envelope. If you are buying an older home, check with your local council to determine if they have a building schedule for all the homes in your area. This will likely tell you what standards were required for insulation at that time.
Ventilation is undervalued
Most people are unaware that ventilation plays a significant role in the efficient running of your home. If your house is not ventilated correctly, it can become stuffy and windless, leading to the build-up of mold and mildew, which can cause breathing difficulties.
Proper ventilation can also help control temperature and moisture levels in your home, resulting in a much more comfortable environment for you and your family. The use of fans or heaters alone is not sufficient; it must be combined with proper airflow. If your home does not have an extractor fan, then you should consider having one installed.
The importance of Solar Power
Solar power is becoming increasingly popular as the costs to install solar panels are coming down. A 3kW system can cost around $4000, but you can get financial assistance if you meet specific criteria under the Solar Credits Scheme. There are also smaller solar systems available on the market, such as the Mecer solar battery, which is portable and can charge phones and other devices.
They are helpful for camping trips or when you need a quick top-up of power before setting out. It’s vital that you consider what sized system you need and whether it makes sense for your property. Some people may want to switch to solar power just for its green value, but this will not be efficient if the system is small, you could save more by installing insulation or double glazing.
