The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rates the energy efficiency of Australian homes with a star rating out of ten. Here are a few simple things you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your home and increase your star rating.
Change your roof and wall colours
The colour of the outer walls and roof of your home can have a profound effect on the energy efficiency of your home and has the potential to improve your NatHERS star rating by up to 0.7. If your roof does not contain reflective foil, the colour of your roof and walls should be adjusted to the climate of the area you live in. For example, homeowners in locations with a warmer climate such as Brisbane and Sydney should consider choosing a lighter colour for their home, while homes with a darker exterior are more suited to homes in cooler climates, such as in Melbourne and Canberra.
Ventilate your roof
A well-ventilated roof is essential for any home, but particularly in warmer climates. Ventilation removes excess heat, decreasing the cost of cooling your home and can improve your star rating by up to 0.5. A dry fixed roofing system is a great option if you’re looking for a way to ventilate your roof. The structure of this system is set up so that the highest point of the roof contains an open ridge, enabling air flow to pass and preventing excess heat and condensation from building up.
Awnings
One of the most simple and cost-effective methods of improving your star rating is simply to add shade to your property by adding awnings. Awnings can be placed on north facing windows to block out sunlight, and in warmer climates, wider awnings offer a higher star rating. Awnings can also be removed and adjusted, so you can change them around as the sun moves.