Built in 2006, the home is a typical single-storey double brick (3beds, 2bath, 2cars) WA home. The home was built before environmental ratings entered the building codes in WA. The approx. 250 sqm home is built on a level 450 sqm subdivided block. The front of the home faces north, has narrow access to the east and west sides and a small enclosed rear south-facing garden.
The house was built on a concrete slab (on ground), with double brick walls with a 50mm cavity (empty). The roof has no eaves (no sarking or insulation) and dark grey cement tiles. The house was glazed with black aluminium window frames with 5mm clear glass. At the time of purchase, the ceiling was only partly insulated, with poorly installed R2.5 batts. Gas was also supplied to the home for hot water, cooking and 2 gas points. There are two Panasonic reverse cycle A/C units, one in the master bedroom and a large unit in the family room. There were no trees or shade in the gardens to the front or rear.
The project has included full electrification of the home, with 6.6kW of solar, a 13.7 kW Tesla battery, a heat pump hot water heater, and an induction cooktop. The gas has been disconnected.
The insulation has been improved to the ceiling (R4 batts), Cavity wall insulation to the double brick wall cavities, and efficient PVC double glazing (6.6 eco glass with argon filling) to all windows and the rear entry door.
External shades and new internal blinds are installed on all windows. Ceiling fans are installed in all bedrooms and lounges. Drafts and air flow have been reduced to a minimum.
The rear garden was stripped out, and new native trees and plants were planted. The front garden has 4 new trees. The trees are growing, and the shade is improving.
The home is now more climate resilient. We have no energy bills and are in credit with Synergy ($660). We also have a small EV (MINI Cooper), which we use for all local commuting.
The home now has a 7.9* Nathers existing home energy rating.
