A Yarra By Ed Merrison
ENERGY efficient housing is often taken to mean heat conservation, but with the hottest year on record forecast, it is vital to consider how to cool homes with a minimal environmental impact.
Australian Conservation Foundation media advisor Josh Meadows, who grew up in Montrose, said it was important to maximise the benefits of a property’s natural environment.
“Don’t chop down all the tall trees around your house. Their shade helps keep your home cool,” he said.
Mr Meadows said an advantage of the region was the habitual temperature drop in the evenings.
“Remember to open your windows after the day’s heat has gone to take advantage of the Dandenong Ranges’ natural breezes,” he said.
Wantirna-based energy-efficient house design company Solar Solutions also pointed out the importance of natural ventilation.
“Windows with good cross-flow ventilation through the home are ideal for letting heat escape in the summer,” director Darren Evans said.
Mr Evans suggested a pergola to shade windows and block out the summer sun while still allowing winter sun to enter the home.
Appropriate insulation is also important, with a foil outer layer over bulk insulation a useful barrier to excessive summer sun.
Mr Meadows said the key was to cut down dependence on electricity-hungry air-conditioners. A fan is better for the environment, while those who do use air-con systems should stop short of over-cooling the house.
“A difference of one degree can reduce energy consumption – and climate-changing greenhouse pollution – by as much as 10 per cent,” he said.
Mr Meadows and Mr Evans emphasised that people should be careful not to make changes to their house that make it cooler in summer but also colder in winter.
Increased reliance on artificial heating in the cooler months would otherwise defeat the purpose of energy-saving efforts to chill out in summer.
