As we fast approach 2023, many of us are thinking about ways to be more sustainable in our daily lives. When it comes to our homes, there are several different trends that are emerging for sustainable living. Here are some of the top house trends for 2023 that you may want to consider if you're looking to make your home more sustainable.
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular amongst homeowners to save on energy costs.
Savings associated with solar energy have been a strong motivator for Australian households to switch to solar panels. Canstarblue estimates that installing a PV unit could save an average household up to $236 a quarter, and even more money can be saved when a solar hot water system and batteries are included in the package. Solar is becoming increasingly popular because not only does it provide cost savings; but it is also considered to be more environmentally friendly than traditional sources of power generation. As such, many Australians have been eager to adopt this renewable energy source in order to reduce their impact on the environment while reaping the rewards of lower utility bills.
The importance of solar power for property seekers is also seen in searches on realestate.com.au.
More than 90% of all searches for energy-efficient features in the past 12 months have been for solar power.
Home insulation and why it's more important than ever
Sound insulation in your home has become increasingly important, with more and more people opting to prioritize home insulation when considering energy efficiency. According to a recent report, homes that are well-insulated with the appropriate materials can reduce the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling by up to 40 percent. Additionally, with rising temperatures throughout the year, proper insulation helps maintain a comfortable environment within the home while also reducing monthly electricity bills. With multiple benefits associated with adequate home insulation, it is no surprise that many consumers are actively seeking out information regarding residential insulation products and installation services.
Source: Sustainability.vic.gov.au
Energy-efficient appliances are becoming more of an interest to buyers with 57% of home buyers happy to pay extra for them.
Home buyers are increasingly becoming aware of the cost-saving benefits associated with energy-efficient appliances, and this is reflected in Proptracks research with 57% of home buyers willing to pay extra for energy-efficient features. These environmentally friendly appliances have emerged as attractive options because they help reduce energy bills while protecting the environment from pollution. Moreover, these appliances come with longer warranties and often require less maintenance in comparison to regular appliances, making them an even more tempting choice for potential homeowners. Therefore, it is no surprise that investing in such solutions continues to gain favour among buyers.
https://www.realestate.com.au/insights/most-in-demand-energy-efficient-features-for-property-seekers/
The benefits of double-glazed windows and cost-saving benefits
Double glazing windows can be beneficial in many ways and more than just from a cost-savings perspective. Their main benefit is the insulation they provide; having two panes of glass rather than one creates an insulating pocket of air between the two glasses, keeping homes cooler in summer and warm in winter. In fact, it is reported that double-glazed windows could save up to 50 percent of cooling and heating costs during peak periods in Australia. For example, a household with three bedrooms may save over 200 kWh/m2 per year. Additionally, double-glazed windows also help reduce noise pollution from outside sources thanks to their acoustic performance. The durability and protection of double-glazed windows stand far superior from its single-glazed counterpart as well - offering better insulation during Australian weather extremes and providing the best barrier against burglary attempts or heavy objects flying towards them. Furthermore, these benefits do not come at an excessive cost compared with single-glazed windows; most people will find that the difference is well worth it when looking at savings on energy bills.
Heat pump water heaters are becoming more common, as they are more efficient than traditional electric or gas water heaters. Here are some of the benefits you can expect by installing heat pump water heaters.
Heat pump water heaters are an increasingly attractive option for those seeking to conserve energy and save money on utility bills. Not only do they use 25% less energy than traditional electric or gas water heaters, but they are also much quieter, safer, and easier to maintain. Furthermore, heat pumps last longer than other types of water heaters, are more affordable to purchase, and can even help homeowners reduce their environmental impact. All this makes installing a heat pump water heater an appealing choice for any homeowner looking to upgrade their current system or make their hot water heating more eco-friendly.
Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to save on their energy costs, and solar panels have become a popular option. However, good insulation in your home is also important, as is having energy-efficient appliances. Double-glazed windows also have many cost-saving benefits. Heat pump water heaters are another option that has become more popular in recent years due to their efficiency.
