The following is a summary of the recommendations from our energy audit, conducted in May 2008.
The list is presented in order of effectiveness (most to least).
Insulation
- Roof - add R3.0 poly insulation (about 150 mm) to bring roof insulation to a total of R5.0. Don't sue fibreglass; fit roof foil using INSULBREAK (made by Air-cell), placed directly between roof and rafters R2.0 bulk insulation
- Walls - use injection foam through small holes in weatherboards (suggested product was Icynene)
- Floors - staple Aircell to underside of wooden floorboard joists
Draft proofing
- Seal all external doors with Raven sealing systems
- Fit Expressaire exhaust fans in brathrooms
- Seal open fireplace with jessian bag filled with polystyrene balls and jammed gently into throat of open fireplace
Windows
- Replace the single glazed windows with Sunergy glass
- Draftproof double-hung windows by installing RP2B. Fix on outside of sash
- Also consider Stop Noise - an additional frame to add to inside of window but still enables sash to be used
- For summer, fit external blinds or fit a Renshade which is a radiant heat barrier to the inside of the windows and doors. Will reduce outside temp by approx 4-5 degrees
Ventilation/shading
- increase thermal mass anywhere possible
- put in external blinds with minimum block out of 90%
- Fit a sail over north and east facing windows and doors on deck
- Instal a ventilator (eg a Condor) to exhaust heat in summer
Lighting
- Replace halogens with compact fluoroscent G10 globes
Solar hot water
- Install when existing system needs replacing. Recommended product - Insolar
