The house was built around 1980 and faces northwest. I came to the property at the end of 2024. I noticed it was too hot in summer with insufficient ventilation, shading and wind-exposure. To help with the wind I installed an aluminum fence and made the front yard more like a courtyard.
To assist outdoor shade I put in a back deck and pergola, changed the alfresco perspex from clear to opal colour and added 2 west facing awnings. The deck boards, Wood Evo are a hybrid composite that has a lot of recycled materials. I added split air con and 2 ceiling fans in the bedrooms with another fan in kitchen area. I also allowed cross ventilation with new secure Crimsafe/Forcefield doors. All the windows are replaced with double or more glazing to reduce noise and remove drafts. Fans in the bathrooms and toilet were changed to outdoor venting ones to reduce any moisture in the roof.
The property is all electric with a big 17.5 kw solar system and 315L heat pump water system. Already in the house was the induction cooktop, electric oven, washing machine, an electric display fire and big split system in the lounge. The roof already had loose filled insulation. I added a 10 kwh modular BYD home battery to null out my energy bill. Appliances I bought were either water or energy efficient.
I abolished my gas pipe to the street. To help with my gardening hobby, I added a 2000L slimline aluminum water tank. I grow my own veggies where I can and support birds with water sources. I compost using 2 bins that alternate use. The majority of display plants are indigenous which have lower water requirements.
I have newly added a lower section fernery that is displaying a cooler micro-climate and is covered by shade cloths. I added an external power point to plug in my BBQ and I use an electric mower. One water feature works off external power while the other has its own solar panel. I drive a Yaris Cross Hybrid car but will look to an electric car in the future.
