“As you were putting the last lot of insulation into the ceiling – I could feel the house temperature improving.”
This unsolicited praise came from the owner of an Adelaide house as our technicians completed upgrading her decades-old insulation. As well as getting a more energy-efficient house, our happy client was eligible for a government rebate to offset the cost.
ERS has partnered with Bradford to offer the best range of insulation, right up to R7.0. As well as doing new installations, we are finding more and more householders getting us to inspect and, often, replace or upgrade existing insulation. A correctly insulated house can save its occupants up to 20 per cent on their energy costs and pay for itself within five years.
If you can, check your ceiling insulation. If it’s only 50mm (2 inches) thick chances are you’re not adequately insulated. That’s because decades ago most houses were fitted with R1.5 standard insulation.
Upgrading to a higher R-Value insulation in your ceiling will increase your comfort levels and save you money by ensuring you minimise the need for heating and cooling all year round.
While both house-wrap and batt insulation can last up to 100 years several factors can degrade these products. Upgrading to at least the current South Australian recommendation of R4.1 is the best option.
Let’s look at some common issues with insulation:
- Shoddy installers may have compressed the insulation, reducing its effectiveness from day one
- Storm damage from water leaks can compromise insulation
- Mould and holes (often caused by vermin) decrease efficiency
- Rising power bills are usually the first sign of failing insulation.
This is hardly surprising because, on a hot day, your house temperature can rise as much as 35% if the ceiling is uninsulated or the existing product is failing.
In winter, an under-insulated house can lose up to 35% of its internal warmth through the ceilings, another 25% through the walls and up to 20% through the floor and windows. That’s a bit hit on your heating costs.
Insulation’s ability to resist heat flow (prevent hot air leaking in or out) is measured as its “R-value”. Bradford’s Hi Performance range provides the highest available R-Value product in Australia – the R7.0.
But you need trustworthy technicians to install it. If it is compressed or damaged, with gaps left between sheets or batts, it won’t achieve its specified R-value. This is why it’s important to choose an ERS expert.
The government is encouraging householders to review their level of insulation. Rebates apply to top-up or replacement work as well as new installations.
ERS can talk through all the options with you. Call us on 1800 171 000 and let us help you take control of your home energy costs.