At RC Energy we want you to have your energy efficiency rating pass the legislative requirements first go. Below we provide tips on how to increase the energy efficiency of your residential design.
Calculating the energy efficiency of a dwelling
What is considered?
Local climate
Orientation
Design layout
Building materials
Shading
Insulation
Proportion of glazing to wall ratio
Colour
What is not considered?
Appliances
Air conditioning (presence assumed)
Heating (presence assumed)
Tips to increase your rating:
Include insulation such as glass fibre batts within roofs, floors and walls of the dwelling. This is often the most cost effective way to increase the efficiency of the dwelling. Please ensure to allow enough room for the proposed insulation within relevant spaces, as flattened insulation is not as effective.
Consider the size, orientation and construction of all glazing throughout the dwelling. While glazing can make for a pleasant environment by allowing light to enter, it can lead to dramatic and unwanted heat gains and losses.
Ensure good construction of the dwelling to avoid heat loss/gain through air leaks underneath doors, around windows and penetrations such as downlights and exhaust fans. An estimated 25 – 30% of heat loss/gain occur due to gaps within the building envelope.
Consider the local climate when designing the dwelling and incorporate features such as passive solar design, external shading devices (such as tree or eaves), breeze paths, thermal mass, fans and ventilation.
For more information or advice on how to increase the energy efficiency of your residential design, please feel free to contact us.