Why upgrade?

Upgrading your home’s energy efficiency isn’t just good for your wallet – it can also make your home more comfortable, healthier, and better for the planet. Check out the benefits below, plus what each upgrade can do for your home.

Lower your energy bills 

With energy bills on the rise, now is the perfect time to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Switching to an efficient, all-electric home can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your bills. As an added bonus, one less connection means one less bill.

Increase home comfort 

Switching from gas to efficient electric appliances is an easy way to improve your home’s air quality and reduce your exposure to harmful pollutants. Additionally, a well-insulated home can help maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

Support a cleaner environment 

Energy-efficient homes powered by renewable energy can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment for your family and generations to come.

Improved property value 

Energy-efficient homes powered by renewable energy can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment for your family and generations to come.

Reverse cycle heating and cooling

Room heating is typically the largest energy user in the home, especially in cooler climates like Melbourne. A reverse cycle air conditioner (or split system) is around four times more efficient than gas heating. Households switching from gas heating to an efficient reverse cycle system can save up to $660 per year on heating bills, especially if combined with solar. See products available.

Electric hot water heat pumps

Hot water heating is usually the second largest energy user in the home, typically accounting for 15–30% of household energy use. Hot water heat pump systems are much more efficient than other systems and work well in Melbourne’s climate. A family of four switching from gas to a heat pump hot water system could save between $200 and $500 a year on energy bills. See products available.

Ceiling, wall, and underfloor insulation

Thick, continuous insulation can reduce heating and cooling needs by up to 45%, significantly lowering energy bills and improving comfort. Ceiling insulation alone can cut heat loss in winter by 25–35%, while wall and floor insulation further reduce heat transfer. Our vetted supplier can install new insulation or top up existing insulation. See products available.

Rooftop solar panels

A typical Victorian household can save more than $1,000 a year on electricity bills by installing rooftop solar, with the largest savings in homes using electric appliances. See products available.

Solar batteries

Store excess solar power in a home battery to use after the sun sets. This reduces your reliance on grid electricity and increases your energy bill savings. A typical household with solar and a 10 kWh battery can save $400–$800 per year extra, depending on how much solar they generate and consume. See products available.

Electric vehicle chargers

Charging your electric vehicle at home is convenient and allows you to make the most of off-peak electricity pricing, or even better, use your own solar energy. Compared to petrol cars, charging your EV at home could save you $1,000–$2,000 per year, depending on how much you drive. See products available.

Induction cooktops

Induction cooktops heat quickly while keeping surfaces cool to the touch. They avoid health risks from gas stove emissions, offering a safe and efficient cooking option. Households switching from gas to induction can save around $100–$150 a year, and benefit from improved indoor air quality. See products available.

For any advice or support along the way, call Yarra Energy Foundation on (03) 7037 6040.