How to build an energy-efficient home

Building a home with a seven-star energy-efficiency rating doesn’t have to be costly or complicated, according to an industry expert.

As part of the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), new homes will need to achieve a seven-star rating, up from the current six stars, from 1 October 2023 in most states and territories.

Simple design features and material choices make a big difference to a home’s energy rating, according to NatHERS operations team assistant manager, David Rochford. 

"Building for seven stars at its very foundation begins with good design and orientation. These two elements are absolutely crucial to reduce the costs in getting a home to seven stars, and beyond,” he said.

“If you build for the local climate, allowing for shade and solar access as appropriate for tropical, temperate or cool climates, you will only need to make minimal changes to other building elements such as the width of eaves, and cross ventilation.

“There is plenty of good advice on positioning a house on the block. This makes a world of difference to the home’s thermal performance and its NatHERS rating."

Five key target areas

Mr Rochford listed several other parts of the home where thoughtful design choices can lead to a higher rating:

Windows. Choose custom window options. Put double and triple glazing or coatings on windows. Install windows that suit the climate. Sizing, placement and shading are also important considerations.

Doors. Include more internal doors in the design, so mechanical heating and cooling estimates in NatHERS can be applied more accurately. Doors can be included at the end of corridors, or at the bottom of stairs, or near media and rumpus rooms that are only occasionally used.

Insulation. Increase your insulation’s R-value (its ability to restrict heat flow). Also, extend insulation to new areas, such as underneath the slab, the garage and internal walls, and to unconditioned zones, like laundries and bathrooms.

Colours. Change the colour of the roof, external walls and window frames, from darker colours that absorb heat to lighter colours that are more heat-resistant.

Fans. Install ceiling fans.

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