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When the phrase "Australian weather" crosses your mind, it's unlikely that thoughts of shivering in sub-zero temperatures immediately follow. Yet, here I am, a Norwegian transplant, baffled by the bone-chilling cold that seems to permeate the very walls of Australian homes during winter. Why, in a country where winters barely dip below freezing by global standards, does the cold feel so relentless?
It all boils down to the unique way Australian houses are constructed—and, interestingly, how they are often disliked. I found myself in Ballarat, where Laney, a recent homeowner, and Dale, an energy assessor, were ready to unravel the secrets behind the frigid indoors of an 1880s-built home.
Dale began by analyzing the thermal envelope of Laney's house, revealing gaps in insulation, drafty walls, and inefficient window coverings. The absence of wall and underfloor insulation, combined with limited ceiling insulation, creates a perfect storm for heat loss. Yet, this scenario is far from unusual in Australia.
The World Health Organization suggests maintaining a minimum indoor temperature of 18°C for a safe and balanced winter home. However, a recent study showed that over 80% of Australian homes fail to meet this standard. The reason? A lack of regulation and a historical abundance of cheap energy, which has led to a general disregard for energy efficiency.
In contrast, post-World War II Germany introduced minimum insulation requirements to combat mold and energy crises, prompting a shift towards better building practices. Australia, on the other hand, has long enjoyed affordable energy, resulting in a complacent approach to home insulation.
For Laney, the journey to a warmer home begins with insulation. The original wool insulation, topped with a layer of Holister bats, needs a bit of rearranging but no further upgrades. Windows, however, present a significant challenge, with up to 40% of heat loss occurring through them. Bubble wrap, double glazing, or investing in honeycomb blinds are viable options to mitigate this.
Dale emphasizes that sealing gaps around windows and doors is a simple, affordable way to retain heat. Laney can use materials like cork to seal large gaps for just a few dollars.
Reverse cycle air conditioning emerges as a cost-effective solution, being one-third the cost of gas heating. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent clogs that could diminish its efficiency.
By making these changes, Laney not only ensures a warmer, more comfortable home but also contributes to reducing Australia's carbon emissions. With households accounting for a quarter of the country's energy consumption, every little bit helps.
In the end, the cold that once bewildered me is now a puzzle being solved, one house at a time. As we seal the gaps, insulate the walls, and invest in efficient heating, we pave the way for a warmer, more sustainable future.
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