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Home Design Guides: Sustainability, Energy efficiency

Design an energy efficient kitchen

Kitchens are busy places filled with all kinds of energy-hungry appliances and specialised work surfaces. Find out what kinds of choices you can make to create a more energy efficient kitchen.

Draught stoppers and weather strips

Draught stoppers and weather strips

The outside edges of an exterior door in particular can make a significant contribution to your home's overall energy efficiency. See how draught stoppers, weather strips and sweeps can make a difference.

Cold water diverter

Cold water diverters

In most plumbing setups, it takes a while for hot water to reach the hot tap when it's turned on. Cold water diverters recycle the cold water which would otherwise pour down the drain in this time.

MEPS label

MEPS labels and ratings for air conditioners

Air conditioners come with labels these days that indicate how efficiently they're able to cool (and to heat, if they're reverse-cycle models). Find out more about these labels and what to look for.

Bathtub insulation

Insulation can make a big difference to how long your bathtub is able to retain its heat, and as a result, might also significantly affect your gas or electricity bills.

Demand response and load shedding

Depending on where you live and what electrical hardware you have, your local power authority may be able to control your lighting or appliances to prevent blackouts.

Grey water systems

Just because water from the tap has been used, it doesn't mean it can't be used again. See how grey water systems can help reduce your water waste.

Energy efficient hot water systems

Energy efficient hot water systems

The hot water system you choose will make a huge difference to how much energy you use. Read on to find out what kind of system is the most efficient for your situation.

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