Energy is expensive – there’s no doubt about it. And whether you work from home or are just spending more time indoors due to COVID-19 restrictions, you’ll have noticed your energy bills are higher than ever. With the heater on all day, clothes dryer whirring, iPads charging, and Wi-Fi ramped to capacity, this coronavirus ‘new normal’ is an expensive one.
While everyday efforts are still important, running a truly energy-efficient home takes more than turning lights off, asking the kids to pop on a jumper, and buying appliances with high energy star ratings – it’s about getting the bones right when you build.
To help our customers do this, Metricon worked alongside Sustainability Victoria on a Zero Net Carbon Homes pilot program, and came up with the Energy Saver Plus Pack. Choosing these home build inclusions means you end up with an efficient home that’s not only friendlier on your bank account, but also more comfortable due to less draughts, dust and fluctuations in temperature
What is a Zero Net Carbon Home?
A Zero Net Carbon Home is a home that is designed, built and tested for energy-efficiency and comfort. By keeping cooler in summer and warmer in winter, your new home will give you reduced energy costs over the term of your ownership and comfortable living thanks to consistent indoor temperatures. The homes have a higher than usual NatHERS (National House Energy Rating Scheme) energy rating, and will meet higher thermal efficiency standards than a regular Australian home.*
What’s included in the Energy Saver Plus Pack?
Solar power system
Solar panels on the roof convert sunlight into affordable, sustainable energy. As a renewable energy source, solar power is better for the environment, and can also help to reduce energy use and electricity bills^. They’re a low maintenance option for your home, and also suit regional homeowners as they can be used in areas without access to the energy grid.
Draught seals
One of the quickest ways to lose heat in a home is through the gaps between your doors, walls, air vents, skirtings and the ground. Draught seals minimise leakage, keeping you warmer in winter and cooler in summer without relying on heating/air-conditioning — great for your power bills^. By creating a protective barrier between the inside and out, draught seals are also helpful for allergy and asthma sufferers as they minimise dust and allergens.
Double-glazed windows
Trapping air between two panes of glass is a smart energy-efficient move. The insulation barrier keeps warm air in during winter and hot air out during summer, giving you increased thermal efficiency and reduced power bills^. Being tougher to break, they’re the more secure option and as an added plus, they also limit condensation, mould and dust in your home.
Extraction Fans with Humidity Sensor
Ceiling extraction fans with humidity sensors automatically detect excess moisture in your bathrooms and switch on to reduce condensation. When the job is done, they automatically switch off. By only working when needed, they save energy and reduce your power bills^. They also reduce mould, mildew and dust.
Insulation
Insulation is your home’s invisible hero of thermal efficiency. Fitted into the ceilings, walls (including wet areas) and façade, it keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer. The insulation inside a Zero Net Carbon Home has an R-value, which is higher than the standard rating and its hard working nature means you can become less reliant on your heating and air-conditioning systems. A much greener solution, it’s economical too.
LED Light Bulbs
LED lighting has been a game-changer for household energy efficiency. Requiring 75% less wattage than compact fluorescent lamps or incandescent light bulbs, the lifespan of LED lighting is also much longer, making it perfect for anyone who wants more bang for their buck. You’ll not only have to do less maintenance around the home, you’ll also enjoy reduced electricity bills^.
Independent thermal testing
Your peace of mind is important to us. So, to ensure you have all the energy-efficient benefits you’re expecting, any Metricon home sold with a complete Energy Saver Plus pack# is independently assessed to ensure it meets the standards of a Zero Net Carbon home. Metricon arranges for an independent assessor to conduct tests during the build process and again on completion, so you’re comfortable your home is performing as it should when you’re handed your keys.
Where can I see a display home with the Energy Saver Plus Pack?
Metricon has built two display homes in Victoria featuring the Energy Saver Plus Pack – the Whittlesea 25 in the Botanical Estate at Mickleham and the Delta29MR in the Kaduna Park Estate at Officer, which you can tour in the video below.
If you want to find out more about Metricon’s Energy Saver Plus Pack or please contact us today for more information. Alternatively, visit Sustainability Victoria's website to learn more about the Zero Net Carbon Homes Program.
^ Based on normal usage of the home. Consumer behaviour will vary and Metricon makes no guarantees on cost savings on this basis.
* The rating does not include embodied energy. Embodied energy is the energy consumed by all of the processes associated with the production of a building. Zero Net Carbon means achieving a reduction of annual greenhouse gas emissions by balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount generated on site through renewable energy.
# Independent testing is conditional on adopting all the features included in the Energy Saver Plus Pack.
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