Sustainable House kits: Resources
Macedon Ranges Shire Council has funded purchase of some “Sustainable House” kits, each containing a thermal imaging camera, plug-in energy monitor, thermometer and the “Energy Freedom Home” book. The kits are available for loan from Goldfields Libraries.
MRSG is pleased to have been able to help promote the use of the kits through recent presentations in Woodend and Gisborne libraries. During the presentations several resources were shared, including websites providing guidance on DIY home energy audits, websites with details of typical energy use of appliances and of water efficiency labelling.
Here’s a list of the resources for those who were keen to follow up:
Goldfields Libraries Link to the library catalogue
From the catalogue, search for Sustainable House Kit.
Library members can place a reservation for a kit on this site (or pop into your nearest branch and ask the staff to help you). You need to be a member of the library to borrow the kit - membership is free.
Government of South Australia: A visual guide to saving energy at home
Graphic illustrating contribution of various energy uses in the home and some simple tips to help reduce energy use
Australian Government Your Home
A fabulous “treasure trove” of information about climate, homes, building and renovating and sustainability. Also available in the libraries as a book - don’t be daunted by its size: it’s set out in bite-sized chapters.
Energy Rating Calculator
Information on energy rating labels and a calculator that can help you assess the expected energy use of appliances subject to energy labelling requirements (fridges, TVs and computer monitors, washers, dishwashers, airconditioners and clothes dryers). Compare with the energy used by your existing appliances, as measured using the meter in the kit
Australian Government Water Rating
Information on water rating labels, and a link to help you check the water efficiency labelling of products you are planning to buy. Using water-efficient products can reduce energy use by reducing hot water consumption.
Victorian Energy Compare
Get your electricity or gas bill and do a comparison using the Victorian Energy Compare website, then apply for the $250 power saving bonus here. The bonus is offered until 31 August 2023 and you can apply whether you’ve received the bonus before or not.. If you need assistance with claiming the bonus please enquire at your local Neighbourhood House.
SA Government Do Your Own Home Energy Audit
A comprehensive DIY audit broken up into themes. Provides action steps as you work through the checklist
Energy Made Easy
Benchmark data for electricity and gas usage for different-sized households in different postcode regions. (Benchmark data is typically also provided on electricity and gas bills). This can help you get a sense of your household’s energy consumption compared to others.
Feel free to contact the Sustainable Homes Action Group if you need help to interpret your thermal images, energy use data or home energy audit results. We can also suggest ways to address deficiencies identified in the audits.
