The BASIX Certificate Hub
We are excited to introduce our latest information service – The BASIX Certificate Hub.
Think of this Basixally Energy Assessments service as your BASIX Certificate Centre – full of facts and figures that will help you to explore and understand the world of energy-efficient homes and sustainability. Latest products and helpful hints will also be a big feature.
Do you have questions and would like us to find the answers? Please contact us. For even more BASIX information please visit our BASIX Certificates and Assessments page.
Now that you have your BASIX Certificate, read on.
What do the Stars Mean?
If your assessment for your new home or renovation is over 6 Stars (out of 10), then the thermal performance exceeds the minimum standard, and it reflects the design. Your house energy rating is not the complete picture of energy-efficient and sustainable housing, but it is an important step in the process.
In most states of Australia, a 6 Star house energy rating is required for new stand-alone dwellings (ie. Class 1 buildings), while apartments (Class 2 buildings) require a 6 Star average across all units is the development, with a minimum 5 Star rating for each individual apartment.
There are some concessions for dwellings in warmer climates where outdoor living spaces are part of everyday life. Ian can give advice about what is required in your location.
In NSW – house energy ratings must comply with BASIX NSW heating and cooling energy targets.
Do I need to be involved in the assessment process?
YES, it is your home and a big investment of time and money.
By doing your homework and being involved you can be part of the design process. Talk to your designer and builder
Testing and comparing different design features and building specifications in the earlier design stages is simpler than leaving it to the end. Be smart – make informed choices earlier, and avoid considerable changes closer to construction, it will probably be cost-effective to incorporate them into your build.
Where do I start?
Talk to an architect or building designer. Look for experience and a good reputation for energy-efficient house design. Talk to them about what you want and why. They will format your ideas around comfort and energy use into a great house design.
Next, is where Ian Ferguson comes in. The earlier the better. Ian has demonstrable experience, he can help you and your designer test and improve the planned design. Ian has the necessary accreditation required and 18 years’ experience.
Talk to product and equipment suppliers (for windows, doors, heating and cooling systems, skylights). Check out their features – how they look and work. Will they work with your design?
Talk to your builder about the performance intentions and house energy rating details. Careful research and discussions early in the process will help further down the track.
Discussion points to have with members of your household and to share with your designer are: –
- What problems have you experienced in your current home – what do you want to avoid this time.
- What does comfort mean to you – what temperatures are acceptable, how willing are you to participate in the running of your home – e.g. adjusting external shading devices.
- What types of heating and cooling systems do you want?
- How will your home withstand extreme weather?
Note! Regarding House Energy Ratings
A house energy rating is a standardised assessment that allows comparison between dwellings. It is an estimate of the energy load for heating and cooling based on the location and climate, and standardised occupancy assumptions.
It cannot calculate actual energy use of your household, as everyone’s daily habits are different. It is primarily used to demonstrate minimum regulatory compliance but is helpful to building designers to produce a more energy efficient home.
For more information see Sanctuary Magazine Issue 44 Published Spring 2018 Information provided by Erika Bartak – Thermal Performance Assessor. Article titled Star – Struck?
What is an energy efficient home?
- Combines energy efficient construction, appliances, lighting, and renewable energy systems, such as solar water heating and electricity generation.
- An energy efficient home is well insulated, with efficient heating and cooling devices that keep your energy costs low.
- The design takes local climate and site conditions into consideration.
- These homes reduce energy usage, greenhouse gas emissions, and demand for non-renewable energy resources.
- It may also offer healthier, cleaner living conditions.
- Financial savings may also occur in an energy efficient home.
Why invest in an energy efficient house?
Investing in sustainable and renewable energy systems for your home can be a large financial cost. But do your homework and weigh up the pros and cons. Your home’s value may well increase with these installations, and you may lower your electricity bill and carbon footprint.
What can I do to have an energy efficient house?
Building or renovating your home, involves lots of building materials and resources. Build quality and comfort level of your house can be affected by the building products you choose. Materials may also affect maintenance costs further down the track.
Try to select durable, long-lasting materials, making your home both comfortable and cost-effective. Some of these products include:
Insulation
- Used to fill spaces – behind walls, above ceilings, to reduce and slow heat flow by reflection and/or absorption.
- Thermal insulation increases energy efficiency and comfort levels.
- Insulation is a barrier between areas that are significantly different in temperature.
- It may reduce cooling and heating expenditure by as much as 50%.
Timber
- One of the few natural, renewable building materials.
- Timber is safe and cost effective.
- Visually appealing – adding texture to your design.
- Effective insulator.
- Durability.
Solar panels
- Solar photovoltaic systems convert sunlight into electricity.
- Reduces the amount of electricity needed from the grid – thus lowering your energy costs.
- Reduces your carbon footprint, as most electricity generated is from fossil fuelled generators.
3 Key Considerations:
- The size of your solar power system depends on your energy needs and budget.
- Australian-based customer support adds more value to your investment – local knowledge and support.
- Safeguarding your future – Do your homework. Can I add a battery storage solution in the future? What does the warranty include?
Paint
- The colour of your paint is not just about decorating styles – it can impact on the heat levels in a room.
- Light interior coloured paint enhances the levels of light in your home. This reduces the need for lights during the day.
Windows and Doors
- Responsible for up to 40% heat gain and heat loss of dwelling heating and cooling energy use.
- Choose the most efficient windows you can afford for your climate.
- Check windows close to be airtight – no air leaks.
- Add window treatments and coverings – curtains, blinds, awnings, shutters.
- Is double glazing the answer?
Remember…
Does your budget allow for things like solar panels, double glazed windows, and insulation? In the long run these products may save you money and energy and are well worth considering and installing at the beginning. Efficient energy systems may provide healthier living spaces.
References:
- http://yourenergysavings.gov.au/energy/heating-cooling/understand-heating-cooling
- http://www.yourhome.gov.au/energy/heating-and-cooling
- http://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/insulation
- http://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/passive-solar-heating
- http://yourenergysavings.gov.au/energy/your-home-rental/building-renovating-energy-efficiency
- Based on information found at www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/insulation on 6 December 2017
- Based on information found at http://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/passive-solar-heating on 6 December 2017
- Based on information found at http://yourenergysavings.gov.au/energy/your-home-rental/building-renovating-energy-efficiency on 6 December 2017
- Based on information found at http://yourenergysavings.gov.au/energy/your-home-rental/building-renovating-energy-efficiency on 6 December 2017
Skylights
If you have been watching The Block, you will know that skylights – in particular, Roof Windows are very popular and stylish.
Skylights can be installed in both existing and new homes. They provide an excellent source of natural light, thus decreasing the need for supplementary lighting or ventilation.
Skylights are a great alternative when you are restricted by the size of windows, privacy issues and when looking for an interesting and stylish design for your room.
Skylight types include roof windows, roof lights and tubular skylights. They are required to meet minimum performance standards set out in the BCA.
For more information visit https://yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/skylights
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans allow the air to freely circulate in your home. Turning on a fan instead of an air conditioner can save up to 40% electricity costs. The functional benefits of ceiling fans can be appreciated in both summer and winter.
Fans come in a variety of shapes and styles that can compliment any home. You can add style to a room with modern multi-coloured fans, go classic with a more traditional look, create a tropical paradise with wood or wicker, or install a contemporary two blade ceiling fan to make a statement.
Ceiling fans are sensational in an outdoor living area. Add style and function with a fan.
Design Tips – From the Sanctuary Magazine Team
- Designing your home? – location, location location! How can the orientation of your home maximise energy saving features?
- Optimal solar PV panel tilt angle and azimuth. The azimuth is the angle between a celestial body (sun, moon) and the North, measured clockwise around the observer’s horizon. It determines the direction of the celestial body. The design of your roof will determine the best-case options.
- Future needs such as solar PV or an electric vehicle involves installing wiring and a switchboard upgrade.
- Professional lighting design assistance can be invaluable.
- Use paint products that contain less VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), natural/less toxic carpet such as wool, jute, seagrass and sisal and natural materials are sustainable and can even improve your indoor air quality.
- All electric vs gas – do your homework.
- Landscaping at the time of the build in advantageous if the budget allows.
- Curtains, blinds and external shading installed as part of the build all helps with your energy saving ideals.
- During any renovation improve your insulation.
Something to Consider – The Real Expense of an Investment
Look at this from another point of view when determining the real expense of an investment. The extra cost of improving the Thermal Performance can be offset by the cost savings going forward.
With reduced Cooling & Heating energy costs, because of better design, the benefits will continue for the life of the dwelling. Some lenders (eg Bank Australia) have reduced Home Loans (0.4% for first 5 years) for houses that achieve a 7 Star NatHERS rating.
That is a saving of $1600/year for 5yrs for a $400K loan.
Talk to your bank.
For more information please see SANCTUARY Magazine Issue 49 “Getting It Right From The Start”.
Paint
- Paint impacts on the heat levels in a room. Light interior colours enhance the levels of light in your home. So, you think WHITE – but there are many whites out there – cool/warm and deeper neutrals like biscuits and greys.
- Warm white tones bring softness into a south-facing room. They create a cosy atmosphere. Warm whites go well with earthy, organic hues so if your furnishings are natural shades go with warm whites.
- Cool white tones are great for rooms that get a lot of sun. Cool whites create a modern and minimalist atmosphere and give the impression of a large space within a room.
- Biscuits can bring cool or warm tones to a room. They are richer than whites and add depth to your interior.
- A white on white palette can be achieved by using soft whites. Vary the tones for intensity. Don’t forget texture in the finish can bring a stylish, individual look.
- Greys can also bring cool or warm tones to your palette. Experiment with samples to achieve the look you desire.
What about the exterior?
- To aid the reduction of temperatures inside your home, choose light and white shades of paint for the exterior. Light colours reflect more light, thus reflecting the heat away from your home
- Dark colours absorb light and heat aiding your home to retain warmth, an advantage in cooler climates.
Local Allied Professionals
These businesses may be able to assist you with your project. We have worked with them many times over the last twenty years. They are keen to help you fulfill your home aspirations and dreams. We believe them to be honest, reliable, and hard working. Check out their websites or give them a call.
Building Designers include: –
- Nest Residential Design
www.nestrd.com.au - Craig Johnson Design
www.craigjohnsondesign.com.au - Designwise Drafting
Peter Fricke 0400 100 901
Builders include: –
- Preston & Son Construction
www.prestonandsons.com.au - KNK Builders
02 44232466 - Daley Constructions
02 44235544 - Martin Leedham
02 44215309
Bushfire Consultants include: –
- MACKAY Bushfire Risk Assessment www.bushfireriskassessments.com.au
- Bushfire Building Solutions www.bushfirebuildingsolutions.com.au
Private Building Certifiers include: –
- D & C Ferguson Building Inspection Services www.dcfbuildinginspections.com.au
- Accredited Inspection Services www.accreditedinspectionservices.com.au
Plantation Shutters
I must admit, I love the look of plantation shutters. They are so stylish and a practical shading solution. They suit the minimal interior design and a relaxed lifestyle.
Shutters are versatile –
- They can be tailored to fit almost any window space.
- They are a great solution for insulating your home, ventilating the room during summer whilst keeping the sun at bay in the warmer months and blocking cold drafts in winter.
- Ambience – they can control the ambient light levels coming into a room.
- Ideal for those with allergies – wipe clean surfaces to keep dust at bay.
- Endurance – built to last.
- Privacy – adjust to your liking.
- Easy to use.
Today, shutters come as DIY kits, readymade custom made as well as the ultimate – custom made/custom fitted. A wide range of materials from styrene to manufactured woods, plastics, aluminium, and a variety of timbers. You can choose between exterior or interior shutters. Just be sure to purchase from a reliable, professional supplier – buyer beware!
2020 Trends and Beyond
Moving towards superior home sustainability has been the trend for 2020 and will continue as a direct response to worldwide concern about climate change.
Harmful effects to the environment and human health have seen a new direction for construction methods. The community is educating itself about where building materials come from and their impact on the environment.
Eco friendly alternatives are being found and researched for a more sustainable building industry and building designs. Homeowners, builders, and home designers who opt for a sustainable building experience are producing some amazing benefits.
- Responsibly sourced, biodegradable building materials.
- Eco friendly and/or salvaged insulation materials.
- Self-powered homes – selling excess energy production back to the grid,
- Smart homes and domestic appliances to save energy.
Examples of sustainable home design trends are: –
- Prefabs – less waste, durability, short construction time, best for remote locations.
- Cargotecture – using recycled shipping containers – strength, durability, savings of time and money, reusing rather than disposing of valuable materials.
- Tiny homes – mobility, affordability, low energy costs, energy efficiency, savings of time and money for cleaning.
Beneficial home design trends include: –
- Light, Airy, and Fresh Homes – sunlight raises the levels of vitamin D in the body, stimulating the “feel good” hormone serotonin. Also, a more tangible connection to nature can be enjoyed. This can be obtained by south and west facing large windows. Natural daylight combined with energy-efficient windows can allow savings of electricity usage and heating costs.
- Sustainably Sourced Materials – recycling, upcycling, vintage materials, and re-upholstering can create bespoke, unique interiors and exteriors. Reclaimed wood for hardwood flooring, bamboo, cork, recycled metal – even sheep’s wool (for insulation) can all be used. Think locally sourced rather than imported.
- Smart Technology – home security including built-in cameras and motion detectors, smart lighting, Wi-Fi Intercom systems, integrated family calendars, energy monitoring and reporting and weather alerts and reports.
- Non-Toxic Materials – reduces and eliminates the potential of toxic chemicals in the home.
- Energy Efficient Products – solar panels, water reclamation systems and heat pump water heaters.
- Living Walls and Roofs – plants improve air quality by filtering toxins and purifying indoor air overnight. Occupants surrounded by green wall plants experience improved mental and physical health and increased creativity
Bidets versus Toilet Paper
Have you ever thought about the environmental impacts of toilet paper? Concerns of “before use” include damage associated with forestry, chlorine bleaching and production/distribution-related CO2 emissions. “After use” issues can be, blocked drains and adverse impacts on sewerage systems.
The bidet concept is very foreign to most of us. Who wants a wet derriere and private parts? In terms of water use, references indicate a bidet uses about 10% of the water that is involved when using toilet paper. Although, the actual washing requires more water than using toilet paper (wiping) and flushing.
The fact is, the process of making toilet paper is very water hungry. So how much does using a bidet compared to toilet paper reduce your carbon footprint?
It varies from person to person. Bidets come in all shapes and sizes – handheld, portable, battery operated, electrical, water pressure devices and separate units. You won’t know until you research and test it out.
If you don’t try, you’ll never know if you are making a positive step on your journey to reducing your family’s carbon footprint.NB. Any project involving plumbing should be done by a plumber. Look for bidets that meet Australian plumbing standards.
How To Reduce this Summer’s Energy Bill
Due to COVID 19 many Australians will still be working and spending more time at home. When the heat of summer arrives we automatically reach for the air-conditioner remote control.
Over this summer, air-conditioner usage (energy usage) will potentially go from 1 or 2 hours per day to 6-8 hours per day. This will result in a hefty power bill.
Here are 6 tips for reducing your summer energy usage.
1. Use windows to regulate the temperature
Open windows can increase the amount of cool air circulating in your home. On extremely hot days, shut the windows and close the blinds to trap more cool air. Use window coverings and invest in window treatments to prevent cool air from escaping your home.
2. Use less hot water
Big savings can be made by using less hot water when washing dishes, showering and reducing the temperature of the dishwasher and washing machine cycle.
Rinse dirty dishes with cold water, don’t use the dishwasher until you have a full load and deactivate it before it starts the drying cycle. Allow dishes to air dry to save energy.
If you have a mixer tap, leave it set to cold water so it doesn’t generate hot water that stays in the pipe and cools.
3. Use the air-conditioner timer
Use the timer to activate the unit only during the hottest periods of the day. Remember, for every degree you increase heating and cooling, you increase energy use between 5 and 10%.
Use a sleep timer and close off rooms that aren’t in use also helps.
4. Insulate your home
Wall and roof insulation not only prevents heat from escaping in winter but also traps cool air in summer. Draught-proofing you doors and installing blinds on windows traps cool air as well.
5. Check your lights
Turn off lights that aren’t in use! Use motion-activated sensors to prevent leaving outdoor lights on all night.
6. Clean your air-conditioner
A dirty filter means your air-conditioner can use up to 15% more energy to power your unit. Clean the filter a couple of times every year and replace it if it’s worn out.
Ways to be Eco Wise at Home
Ian Ferguson can assist you to meet the BASIX Assessment criteria when building or renovating your home. Once you have achieved those requirements, let’s look at ways to “Go Greener at Home”.
What does being Eco Wise mean?
Rejoicing in the creation of our world.
Respecting and valuing the beauty of our world and being guardians of our communities.
Passing on knowledge and values for generations to come.
Environmentally-friendly practices are sound economics
- Plant a backyard garden – start small, involve the kids, enjoy your successes.
- Start using a compost bin some organic materials that you can compost are:
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Fruit and vegetable scraps (not citrus)
- Egg shells
- Grass clippings
- Leaves
- Nut shells
- Shredded newspapers
- Fireplace ashes
- Use reusable bags for shopping
- Use reusable water bottles
- Support your local economy – shop at farmer’s markets
- Pay bills online
- Collect rainwater
- Switch to cloth nappies
- Repurpose glass jars
- Donate to and shop at op-shops
- Make your own household cleaners:
- All Purpose Cleaner
Make your own household cleaners:
¾ cup hydrogen peroxide
½ cup white vinegar (do not use on stone surfaces such as granite or marble, cast iron, aluminium or waxed surfaces)
1 teaspoon unscented liquid soap
10 drops tea tree oil
20 drops lavender essential oil
2 cups water
Add all ingredients to a spray bottle, shake before use. (Carb Soda gives an extra boost.)
Test on a hidden area to ensure the cleaner does not damage the material (surface).
Source: https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/cleaning-products-tools/homemade-cleaners/
How Can I Increase the Value of My Property?
1. Increase Energy Efficiency
An energy efficient home will save you money while living in it, as well as increase your property value if you are considering renting or selling.
Energy efficient appliances will also cut down your electricity bills. Solar panels make your home eco-friendlier and appeal to modern buyers.
2. Add a Second Bathroom
A second bathroom in a home is more attractive for buyers as well as renters. Many people will not even consider a home without one – even a separate toilet and sink will improve what you have to offer. Ensure that the plumbing allows for it without increasing your spending.
3. Upgrade Your Appliances
Consider adding induction hobs, home cinema systems and make your house a smart home. This includes smart lights and thermostats, smart smoke detectors, smart security cameras and home assistant devices.
4. Create Storage Space
Think creatively when adding more storage space. Dead areas in your home such as under a staircase and turn the stairs into drawers. Under beds install rolling storage. Vertical spaces can allow you to install cabinets or shelves.
5. Give the Walls a Facelift
A new coat of paint (consider the colour to increase energy savings) onboth interior and exterior walls works wonders. Check for cracks and seal them as needed.
6. Improve the Curb Appeal
Keep your lawn trimmed, plant flowers, weed garden beds, fix crack in the paving and add desirable features such as a modern mailbox, exterior lights and modern gates and screens.
What are the Benefits of Composting?
Recycling food scraps and yard waste by composting:
- Enriches the soil, retains moisture and reduces plant diseases and pests,
- Decreases the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Aids the production of beneficial bacteria and fungi, breaking down organic matter to create humus.
- Reduces methane emissions from landfills and lowers your carbon footprint.
It is great for the environment!
Composting requires three basic ingredients:
- Browns – Including materials such as dead leaves, branches, and twigs.
- Greens – Including materials such as grass clippings, vegetable waste, fruit scraps, and coffee grounds.
- Water – Having the right amount of water, greens, and browns is important for compost development.
Your compost pile should have an equal quantity of browns to greens.
Alternate layers of organic materials of different-sized particles.
The brown materials provide carbon for your compost, the green materials provide nitrogen, and the water provides moisture to help break down the organic matter.
Composting can be done in your own backyard in a compost pile or bin.
Alternatively, you can compost indoors in a special type of bin.
Worm farming can help you have a thriving garden. Using a worm farm helps reduce household waste, as you can use it to process food scraps and other organic materials rather than send them to landfill, which reduces gas emissions. Adding the worm castings and “juice”, you will improve your soil and protect water quality.
www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au has a fantastic worm farming fact sheet – check it out.
Basixally Energy Assessments
BASIX and NatHERS Accredited Assessors