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Five Star Energy Rating

Energy Efficient Housing

Great design and an energy-efficient home are definitively achievable, and why wouldn’t you want the best from your new home? Glen Loddon Homes specialises in delivering a home that not only meets your needs but also delivers the optimum in energy efficiency. The orientation of the home, the amount of glazing and their location, the depth of eaves, pergolas and awnings, and insulation all play a part in producing the best result for star ratings as well as saving money with bills.

An accredited energy rater Glen Loddon Homes general manager Chris Ryan works closely with the design team to ensure that your home meets the regulation requirements, as well as your design expectations. "Some people have their heart set on the way the house is positioned and its design and materials. Unfortunately this may not always be a cost-effective option, so it is our job to advise them on the costs and discuss all options."

The main areas that affect solar passive design include window size and location, cooling the house naturally by ventilation and the thermal mass within the house, which can store heat in the day and release it at night. " Most of a home’s energy is lost through glass, so large banks of glazing may look fantastic but they do nothing for your energy rating."

One of the main objectives, says Chris, is to let the winter sun into your living areas and minimise the summer sun. "This is achieved a number of ways but it is mainly determined by the amount of shade from eaves, pergolas and awnings to block out the high angle of the summer sun but still utilise the lower angle of the winter sun so it still penetrates your home."

It is a natural response to orientate living areas to the north, but then most people put an alfresco out from here, says Chris. "By doing this there is no advantage as the sun doesn’t get to penetrate the windows in winter due to the amount of shading. Considerations such as these are important for people to understand so they can make the right decisions and have a house that works for them."

Chris emphasises that obtaining the correct amount of glass, shading and insulation for your new home is paramount. "Your energy bills can be significantly reduced with some considered design and planning. This sometimes can add a small additional cost, but you will definitely recoup this by savings to your monthly and quarterly bills.

"It may be as simple as slightly moving the orientation of your home or understanding the myriad of windows and glazing options, and it doesn’t have to affect the whole house."

For the best answer in achieving a home that is energy efficient and design savvy, talk to the experts at Glen Loddon Homes.