A home energy rating tells you what you need to know about a home’s energy efficiency. In other words, a home energy rating tells you how much bang you are getting for your buck. When most people talk about a home’s energy rating, they usually refer to the federal government’s Nationwide Home Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). NatHERS rates a home on a star rating of 0-10. The more stars, the more energy-efficient the home. The scores consider a number of factors, including insulation levels, air leakage amount, equipment efficiency, size of the home, materials used and the number of rooms.
What do energy ratings measure?
The NatHERS rating also predicts how much heating and cooling an apartment or house would require to stay comfortable all year round in that area’s particular climate. Homes with a higher energy rating are more naturally comfortable all year round and therefore easier and cheaper to heat or cool. This can be affected by the building’s insulation, ventilation, orientation, layout, construction materials and glazing.
The NatHERS star system does not currently consider factors such as hot-water systems, solar lights and electrical appliances. It does consider, however, the impact of airflow from ceiling fans. However, this may change. The department that runs the scheme is currently looking at extending the NatHERS star system to consider overall energy efficiency, including such factors as rooftop solar and energy-efficient appliances.
How does the average house rate on the scale?
How your house will rate will be primarily determined by the year it was built. In 2011 it became mandatory in Victoria for all new homes, apartments and major renovations to achieve a minim of 7 stars on the NatHERS rating.
How to boost energy efficiency in your existing home
You can take many steps in your home to significantly impact energy usage and bills without having to commit to a new build. Some of these steps include:
Insulation
Insulating the ceiling, walls and floors slows down the entry and exit of heat. As a result, it can save you up to 45 percent on the cost of heating and cooling.
Windows
The design of your windows can also help make your home naturally comfortable all year round. Specific frames such as high-performance PVC frames can also control how much heat enters or leaves your home.
Energy-efficient appliances
Simply upgrading your appliances can save you money on your power bills. Look for the energy rating on your new appliances.
Rooftop solar
Installing rooftop solar allows you to utilizesun-generated energy to power your home and significantly reduce your electricity bills. You can also invest in a battery storage system, meaning you can use solar power even when the sun isn’t shining, giving you even more savings on your electricity bill.
For more, you can head to Certified Energy and ask them to assist you. They are a leading and renowned firm who have been in this field for a long time. Apart from this, explore their official website to know the people’s experience with their service and make your appropriate decisions.
