Whether you’re planning a new home build, conducting a renovation or looking to make some minor updates, there are plenty of ways to ensure your kitchen is sustainable.
Eco-friendly kitchen renovations
The first step in refreshing your kitchen is don’t discard – recycle. Before you touch anything, take a few snapshots of your kitchen and spread the word around that you’re looking to renovate. What seems like trash to you might be someone else’s treasure. Someone else nearby might want to take all of those unwanted kitchen fixtures off your hand, which might save you a lot of time and trouble, and possibly earn you some extra budget.
There are many factors to consider when creating a more eco-friendly kitchen design / Source: SG2 design
After that, decide on the scale of your renovation. Should you go all-out and change everything, or are you just looking for a few cosmetic touches? You might want to keep using some of your cabinets. There’s no need to toss them if you’re just putting in a bigger pantry or different kitchen island. Additionally, there is always the option of refacing the kitchen instead of replacing everything. Just try a new set of drawers or door fronts or a new coat of paint on everything. Those little changes might be all that you need for a new look.
Green kitchen appliances
All the different heat-using appliances in the kitchen – the oven, microwave, toaster, fridge – make that room one of the most energy-inefficient places in the entire house. The first thing to do to save energy is to look for the right appliances. Check out the Energy Rating labels. Choose a fridge that isn’t too big for what you’re going to use it for. Use gas for your oven instead of electric energy. Install “smart” appliances that know how to operate at peak energy efficiency.
Eco-friendly appliances benefit both the owner and the planet. Manufacturers must comply with strict environmental standards to earn the Energy Star rating displayed on every product. Because of the legal requirements and increasing awareness and sophistication of consumers, manufacturers now compete not only on performance and cost, but also on the energy efficiency of the appliance.
Buying eco-friendly appliances
By law, Energy Star labels and the rating system for appliances must be in clear language and easy to understand. Each star represents an increment of energy efficiency. The higher the number of stars, the higher the appliance rated in the efficiency tests. When an appliance uses both electricity and water, the label must rate for both. Dual use appliances, such as heater/air-conditioner units, must have separate ratings for each function.
However, a lot of work and research goes into those simple labels. Each appliance is submitted to a series of rigorous tests before it receives its star rating. Depending on the appliance, the difference between the star ratings represents a dramatic difference in the item’s energy usage. For example, the difference of a single star on an appliance may mean it is 25 percent more efficient than the lower rated competitor. As a result, a three-star refrigerator may be more expensive than a two-star model, it will be run up to 25 percent more efficiently. The difference in electricity costs will pay for the unit over time.
Contact local kitchen renovators
One exception to the Energy Star is ovens and stovetops. They are typically not labeled. As a consumer, you must decide which is better for you. Generally, gas units are considered more efficient and cheaper to operate. If you prefer an electric range, consider an induction system. It is more expensive initially, but cheaper and safer to operate.
Other eco-friendly and green alternatives include compact fluorescent lights and LED lights. Consider adding solar panels to your home and converting to solar hot water heating. The true benefit of eco-friendly appliances and other products is that over the life of the unit you save energy, you save money, and you help save the environment.
Materials
The materials you use to construct your kitchen also make an environmental impact. Try using recycled timber, recycled glass or engineered stone when constructing your floor or benchtop – it will look just as good and will do wonders for the earth.
Do you remember the good ‘ol days when you did laundry in the basement or in a tiny room in the back of the house? Those days are over. Now homes have fully equipped laundry rooms with plenty of amenities, storage, and convenience. If you want to renovate a room in your home into a laundry room, read on for our comprehensive guide below.
Ergonomics for the laundry
While ergonomic principles can be helpful in any room, they are especially handy in the laundry. Think about how much time you spend in the laundry sorting clothes, loading and unloading machines, and folding and ironing clothes. Here are some tips to help you make your laundry more ergonomic.
First, arrange the laundry around the most commonly used items, which are the dryer and washing machine. By placing them close together, you can limit how far you have to carry heavy wet clothes from the washer to the dryer. When deciding on their placement, choose a spot where you won’t have to bend over to use them.
When designing your laundry, don’t forget to include a surface space, such as a benchtop. It should be installed at a comfortable height, so you will have a spot to sort and fold laundry without straining at an uncomfortable level. Consider installing your ironing board so it folds down. Having it in the laundry will eliminate the need to lug the ironing board around and find a spot to open it every time you need to quickly iron something.
One of the first things you can do is use hampers. Most of the time, you may only have one hamper for dirty clothes. However, if this is the case, you likely have dirty clothes that need to be sorted before you can even begin with the washing. It may be better to purchase several hampers and spread them out if you have the room.
Ironing and folding room organisation
Another common problem is having enough space to handle all of the ironing and folding you need to do. If you do this spread out over a couch because you do not have room to do it in the laundry room, it may be time to make a change. Dedicate a specific location in the room for ironing and folding.
Using shelving
In most areas, you need shelving because of all of the chemicals and supplies you need to have on hand. You may be able to invest in a small cabinet to store these items. If not, install some overhead shelving so you can keep these items safely put away and out of the reach of children.
Managing the garbage
Finally, to completely ensure that the laundry area is properly maintained, install a waste bin. That way, you can throw away all of your cleaning supplies or lint from the clothing right away. You do not want to have to move this rubbish around your home instead.
Choosing appliances
Washing machine
Capacity: Choose the capacity and size of a washing machine depending on the amount of washing you do. A smaller machine costs less, but if you end up doing two loads per day, you are wasting electricity, water and your time. For bigger and more frequent washing loads, front-loading washing machines take up less water and are more gentle on your clothes.
Features: Today’s washing machines come with all kinds of frills, but only pay for what you really need. You can set the desired water temperature and wash cycles using electronic controls. Sensors automatically set the machine’s wash cycle depending on how dirty and big the wash load is. Delayed start mechanism, automatic load balancing, and containers for bleach and fabric softener are other good-to-have features.
Energy Efficiency:Look for the Energy Star rating on the machine to determine how eco-friendly it is. Washing machines with fast spin cycles reduce the drying time, and are more energy-efficient.
Contact local plumbers
Dryer
Dryers of six-kilogramme capacity are the most popular. To choose the right model for you, consider the features available. Electronic controls give you more flexibility in settings with the push of a button. Sensor systems can shut down the dryer as soon as the clothes are sufficiently dry. Condensers prevent the dryer from expelling moisture into your room, and is required in poorly-ventilated apartment homes.
Iron
Steam andspray:Tough wrinkles are easily taken care of by a spray of steam. Check that the capacity of the water receptacle is sufficient for you. If you use tap water, invest in an anti-calc iron that does not allow mineral deposits to clog the steam holes.
Non-stick sole:A non-stick coating over an iron’s stainless steel or aluminium sole facilitates ironing, but it needs good care.
Cordless irons: Cordless irons offer convenience, but these are ideal only for a few clothes at a time. Higher wattage irons can retain the heat at a constant level.
Automatic shut-off: This safety feature is great if you are forgetful, or you multi-task with chores.
Natural washing powders are easy on the environment. These are made from non-toxic plant matter and minerals, and are free from chlorine bleach, phosphates, petrochemicals and other harmful substances. Even when cleaning your home, use non-chemical cleaning products. Microfibre rags and mops can be used to effectively clean your tiles, floors and countertops, even without the help of detergents.
Using a rainwater tank
Connect the incoming plumbing line of your washing machine, dishwasher and toilets to your rainwater tank. Besides saving on water fit for human consumption, you will also get grants from the government for such eco-friendly initiatives. Water given out by the washing machine cannot be used for drinking or cooking, but it is safe for watering your plants.
Ideal laundry location
If you are building a new home, you can plan the location of your laundry such that it helps improve the insulation of the rest of your home, which in turn lowers the electricity bills. Since the laundry doesn’t require a controlled temperature, place it along the side of the home facing west or south, if you live in a hot or cold climate respectively.
FAQ
How can you mount a dryer on the wall?
To mount a dryer on the wall, you’ll need a strong bracket to hold the weight of the dryer. Attach the bracket to a wall stud using screws, and then hook the dryer onto the bracket. Secure the dryer using additional screws or clamps. Follow all manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines before proceeding, and consult a professional if needed.
Right now, people are trying to design their homes as eco-friendly as possible. Not only does it help reduce your impact on the planet, but it also can help save your household money in the long run. So, if you’re moving into a new home or you’ve decided to renovate, it’s the perfect time to consider going green. Here, we’ll take you through the main features you can add to make your home eco friendly.
Why build an eco-friendly, sustainable home?
It’s more cost effective and easier to build an eco-friendly home costs a than renovating an existing one. However, there are still many changes and updates you can do to make an existing home more sustainable. Benefits of an eco-friendly home include:
Lower utility bills.
Your lifestyle actually contributes to make the environment better, helping to minimise the production of greenhouse gasses and carbon dioxide in your home.
Better flow of air around your home
Low maintenance home
Features of an eco-friendly home
Bamboo flooring
Wood is one of the most popular flooring materials in modern homes. However, the problem with wood, at least as far as flooring goes, is that it isn’t a particularly renewable material. It takes years and years for new forests to grow, and deforestation is a key issue facing our planet today. On the other hand, bamboo grows pretty quickly and makes a great flooring material as well. Therefore, instead of going for traditional wood flooring, going for bamboo is a great move if you want to design your home in an eco-friendly fashion. You can also consider using bamboo for your cabinets and countertops.
Use recycled or sustainable materials
Most of us buy furniture in retail stores. However, companies that make that furniture usually don’t care too much about the effect their work has on the environment. Take a look at it this way – almost all readymade furniture is made of particle board which is one of the least durable board products out there. On the other hand, if you decide to turn to experts who make custom furniture, you can ask them to provide you with furniture made out of sustainable materials. On top of that, if you turn to local experts, you’ll also be reducing transportation waste. This option can be expensive, so as an alternative aim to look for local suppliers who sustainably source their material.
Where possible, use locally sourced and sustainabe furniture and materials / Source: Ryan Linnegar Photography
This methodology of sourcing sustainable or recycled products should be applied across your entire home – especially when it comes to building materials.
Plant life
No matter if you’re renovating or designing your new home, you’ll always be looking for ways to decorate it. While paintings and beautiful lampshades are something you can always go for, you might also want to think decorating with plants. Plants can filter air in your home, getting rid of any harmful chemicals from it. Moreover, these can help you reduce noise and stress. Of course, there are plenty of amazing potted plants that are guaranteed to add some style to your home.
For bonus sustainability points, consider planting a veggie or herb garden so you can grow your own food.
Led lights
Chances are you’ve already heard that LED lights are an absolute must when going eco-friendly. LED bulbs make a great option since they both last longer and use less energy than traditional bulbs. In fact, according to recent reports, by switching to LED lights, you could actually end up saving about 20% on your energy bill. Of course, with everyone going for LED lights, you can now find these in almost any shape or colour. This makes LEDs a perfect option for spaces like pool areas and kids’ rooms.
Use sunlight
Where possible, install solar panels to make use of the sun’s energy for your heating, cooling and lighting. Solar is a sustainable energy source, and will also save you money in the long run.
Another great way to make your home green is to let in as much sunlight as possible. This will both reduce your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Also, if there are any small rooms in your home, sunlight is always going to help you make them look larger. One of the best ways to let sunlight in is to install a few extra double-glazed windows. If you opt for these, you’ll use your cooling and heating equipment less and thus reduce your energy bill even more.
Harness sunlight in your home as a sustainable source of energy, heat & light / Source: Source Architects Pty Ltd
Making your kitchen eco-friendly
There are plenty of ways to make their kitchens green. Firstly, as we’ve already mentioned, you can use materials such as bamboo for your kitchen cabinets and countertops. Here are a few other ideas for making your kitchen eco-friendly:
Start a compost to reduce your biodegradable kitchen waste and improve the sustainability of your home and zero-waste living
Install a rainwater tank
Use recycled glass for your splash-back – as opposed to the standard glass or quartz
Making your bathroom eco-friendly
The bathroom can be one of the most non-environmentally friendly rooms in a house because of high water use, chemical cleaners and other issues. Your bathroom, however, doesn’t have to be harmful to the environment with these environmentally friendly ideas.
Ditch the chemicals
Many bathroom cleaners contain bleach and other chemicals that are bad for the environment and your health. Opt for natural, organic cleaners instead. Even many regular supermarkets now have “green” cleaners that use orange oil, tea tree, lavender and baking soda to clean, disinfect and freshen your bathroom. You should also steer clear of pesticides by purchasing organic towels, wash cloths and bath robes.
Hire a green plumber
Hire a green plumber to make your bathroom use less water. A green plumber can inspect your plumbing and fix any leaks that are wasting water. In addition, a green plumber can install a grey water system that uses your sink, shower and laundry water to flush the toilet.
Water efficient fixtures
Your toilet, sink faucets and shower heads release a lot of water. You can reduce your water usage by installing low-flow toilets, sink faucets and shower heads. These low flow fixtures work just as good as their water wasting counterparts, they’re just kinder on your pocket book (because your water bill will be cheaper) and more friendly to the environment. You can probably instal the sink faucets and shower heads yourself if you’re handy, but you might want to hire a plumber to instal the toilet.
Solar water heating
Solar powered water heaters are a great way to reduce your energy consumption. If you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of sun, you can instal a battery backup or gas powered backup to heat your water on overcast days.
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your water bill, low taps are are in ideal solution.
What are low flow taps?
Low flow taps are deceiving by name. You may think that because they’re called low flow taps, you won’t have high-pressure water coming out, but this is the contrary. Regular taps use more water and therefore produce more water pressure which results in increased water flow. However, low flow taps also produce a high power water flow, but it does this by mixing air into the water, which gives the appearance of a higher flow; although the pressure feels just about the same.
A normal tap lets out up to 18 L of water per minute whereas the low flow taps only use about 2 L of water per minute, which really saves you a tremendous amount on your water bill. When looking for low flow tap, you may run into the Acronym WELS. WELS is a water efficiency labeling scheme. WELS rates items according to efficiency and it allows you to see how much you’re saving and how efficient the product is before purchasing it. WELS has a six star rating system with the higher stars being more efficient and the lower stars being less efficient. Any water producing item that you purchase is rated by WELS.
Advantages of using low flow taps
Low flow taps help to stop water wastage and also provides you with a better source of water. In addition, they decrease your water cost and are more energy-efficient. This might be an ideal solution in a household that has high water usage or higher water bills. Besides simply saving you money on your water, there are two other benefits to using low flow taps. These benefits include saving money on electricity and reducing water wastage.
Low flow toilets
As one of the most essential fixtures in your home, the toilet is also the most consuming of water. By installing low flow toilets, you will lose significantly less water (and see a lower water bill), without noticing a change in the toilet’s effectiveness. In addition to improving water efficiency, low flow toilets will ensure your home is up to code.
What are low flow toilets?
Other than outdoor irrigation, the standard toilet is the largest water consumer in your home. By installing a low flow toilet, you can reduce water usage while still performing the same function of removing bodily waste. To effectively remove waste, gravity assists during the flushing process allowing low flow toilets to only use six litres of water per flush. These toilets are available in the most basic models and also top-of-the-line units.
The most common type of low-flow toilet on the market is the dual flush model which has two buttons. The first button, known as the half flush, uses only three litres of water to eliminate liquid waste. The second button, referred to as the full flush, uses up to six litres of water to dispose of solid waste. Therefore, you are only using as much water as necessary for each visit.
Buying a low flow toilet
If you are in the market for a low flow toilet, there are a few considerations. First, ensure the toilet has been certified as water efficient. The amount of water used in the half and full flushes should be readily available. Second, ensure there is enough space in your bathroom to fit the new toilet. Third, there is a wide variety of designs including:
Colour
Height
Modifications (heated seats, bidet, etc.)
Shape (round or elongated)
Noisiness
Water saving tips
In addition to installing low flow taps, there are many other ways that you can reduce your energy costs and save wastage. Some of these tips include:
Installing low flow tabs on all sinks, tubs and basins in your home
Minimizing the temperature on your heater
Closing taps when you’re not using them and frequently checking any pipes for leakages
Remember a small leak can add up, so it’s best to have that leak under control before it causes more problems. Low flow taps can be a tremendous help, but if they aren’t maintained or used properly they can contribute to water wastage.
Roller shutters are the ideal way to protect your home from elements such as extreme and cold, excessive noise and intruders. Home security is an issue that every homeowner should address. It is important to keep the house safe at all times, not just because there are expensive belongings inside, but also because your loved ones are there. Having roller shutters at home can be a good form of home security.
What are roller shutters?
A roller shutter is a type of shutter that is permanently mounted above a window or door. The shutter can be rolled down when desired or left up to let air and light into the house. Most roller shutters are made of metal, most commonly aluminium or steel. They’re comprised of slats, which control how much the shutter closes, and can be painted any colour to match your home décor.
Roller shutters are available in manual and motorised varieties, usually operated from within the home. Manual roller shutters are operated using a manual winder crank, and motorised roller shutters are operated using a control panel or remote control.
These roller shutters have a small motor that allows you to open and close them through the push of a button. You can also opt for those models that use solar energy or those that are wired to your electrical supply. Electric roller shutters are operated using a panel or remote control. There are even others that can be automated, which makes them convenient for you and your family to operate. It’s easy for you to close and open them when needed and from wherever you are in the house. Automatic roller shutters with sensors can close and open automatically, depending on the time of the day.
Electric roller shutters are more expensive and can be difficult to install. However, they last longer and are quite durable. Note, for electric roller shutters you will need an electrician to wire them up.
Manual roller shutter
With manual roller shutters, you have to open and close them by yourself. They have a winder that allows you to adjust them as needed. These are preferred by many homeowners because they are cost-effective and easy to install. It’s also easy to fix and troubleshoot rollers when there’s a problem. Manual roller shutters are more affordable and can provide the same protection as electric ones. This can be useful in securing windows and smaller doors that are exposed to many passersby since you can easily purchase a shutter for every house opening.
The only drawback to manual shutters is that you have to go to every shutter to open and close it. This may be a bit of a hassle and can take time since you need to open them every morning and close it at night.
Solar-powered roller shutters
For a more energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly option, choose solar powered roller shutters. Solar-powered roller shutters operate totally separate from mains power and get their power from the sun. The solar power is generated by solar panels on the roller shutters, which convert solar energy into electricity which is then stored in a battery. If your roller shutters are located in an area that is away from the sun, you might have to install two or more solar panels. Usually, you will only need a single solar panel to operate the shutter.
The battery of a solar powered roller shutter powers a motor which in turn operates the shutter. By simply hitting a button on a remote control, the shutter can be raised and lowered as per your need. These roller shutters work exactly like electric or automated shutters in this respect. Thus a solar-powered roller shutter gives you the same functionality of an electric roller shutter at a fraction of the operating cost. There is only an initial cost that you will incur when installing the solar panels.
The advantages of using roller shutters
Roller shutters provide many benefits over other types of window coverings. The main benefits are:
Security
Roller shutters add a layer of security to your home. The shutters are made out of strong material and are tightly fitted against windows and doors. When the roller shutters are closed, people cannot see into your home, and intruders cannot easily pull the shutters off your windows or doors which means they often act as a deterrent to potential thieves.
Most roller shutters are built with a layer of insulation, which helps keep your home from getting too hot or too cold. Roller shutters can block up to 90 percent of heat from escaping or entering your home, which is useful in both summer and winter weather. Rollers shutters also block up to 50 percent of the outside cold from entering your home.
Insulated roller shutters block noise, in addition to temperature, which helps keep outside noise from entering your home. So, your house will be a more comfortable temperature and peacefully quiet.
Weather protection
Roller shutters protect your home during windy and stormy weather. If branches or other debris break your window or door glass, the roller shutters will prevent broken glass, debris and water from entering your home. During fire season, rolling shutters can deflect burning embers to help prevent your house from catching fire.
Versatility
Roller shutters offer you choices and options. Open them up a little or a lot to control how much light enters your home. Do you want to sleep in during the day? Leave your roller shutters closed to keep the inside of your home nice and dark.
Do you want to allow air into your home, while still maintaining your privacy? Open your windows, but only crack the shutters to allow air in and to keep prying eyes out.
Awnings are an exceptional method of shading windows and outdoor areas. Luckily, there are many options available for homeowners.
Types of awning
There are many different types of awnings including:
Automatic: These are extremely popular types of awnings. Automatic models run on guides, so they can be easily adjusted to any entertaining area. Also, since they are available in a variety of lengths, automatic awnings are compatible with all homes.
Fixed Guide: These awnings are best when used on the upper levels of residences because they utilise guide bars that are permanently fixed. Fixed guide models are suitable for automation.
Heavy Drop: For a more European feel, heavy-drop-arm awnings can be adjusted within a 90-degree arc and can be motorised for additional convenience.
Retractable: Retractable awnings are ideal for patios and decks. They are installed directly onto the side of the house and extended to cover outdoor areas when necessary. When these are not being used, retractable awnings are stored inside the housing unit. These models area available in manual or automatic and can be customised for your specific needs. Additionally, retractable awnings are available in a variety of colours and patterns.
Straight Drop: As an alternative to verandah awnings, straight-drop models are recommended for pergolas, patios and verandahs. These models can be spring-loaded or have an attached gearbox.
Verandah: Finally, verandah awnings are the perfect choice for privacy and protection from the sun. They are typically operated through the use of pulleys. These are the most aesthetically pleasing of the group.
Materials used in awnings
There are several materials that can be used for awnings, including:
Manual awnings are operated by turning a crank. To provide shade, wind it up; to provide sunlight, wind it down. On the other hand, motorised awnings utilise a motor to extend and retract the unit via a switch or remote control. It is even possible to automate using a home automation system.
Benefits of installing awnings
There are several benefits to installing awnings; not only are they practical, but they also look great. Here are some of the main benefits of installing awnings on to the exterior of your home.
1. Awnings help protect your windows
Protection against the weather is one of the main reasons you’ll want to install exterior window awnings. Protecting your home is vital if you live in a climate prone to high winds and frequent thunderstorms, perhaps even hail. Installing something like straight drop awnings – either manually operated or motorised – means that as soon as the weather starts to turn, you can quickly drop those awnings and add a layer of protection for the fragile glass.
Even something like pivot arm canvas awnings that protrude out above the window will help protect your windows to some degree as well.
2. Window awnings help insulate your home’s interior
No matter what style of awnings you choose to go with, apart from offering window protection, one of the main functions of awnings is to help keep the temperature inside your house cooler.
Awnings help block out some of the sunlight. Even if you have thick blinds on the interior of your windows, if the summer sun can shine directly onto the glass, it gets hot very quickly and therefore heats up your house. With the protection on the outside, preventing the sun from baking the glass, your home will be much cooler.
No one wants to live in an oven during the long Australian summer, so awnings can undoubtedly help with climate control.
3. Enclose your patio or balcony
Once again, something like straight drop awnings is the perfect solution for enclosing a balcony or patio area and protecting you from the elements.
Imagine you’re out on your patio one evening enjoying some snacks and drinks with friends. It’s a breezy, but pleasant evening and things are going well. Soon the atmosphere is spoilt when a wind suddenly picks up, tugging at your clothing and giving you the chills.
You could duck back inside, or you could lower those awnings to protect you and your friends against the wind.
It’s the same out on your balcony. Highrise balconies, in particular, are prone to lots of wind, so having some awnings in place that you can use when needed is a blessing. Enjoy your alfresco balcony lifestyle in comfort and style.
Awnings are a great way to provide shade over outdoor entertaining areas / Source: Smart Canvas
4. Window awnings are very easy to maintain
Don’t think that because you’ve installed some awnings on the exterior of your home that you’re going to be spending hours every weekend cleaning them up to keep them looking good.
Modern awnings are extremely easy to look after. Often all you’ll ever need to do is hose them down with some freshwater from time to time to keep off any grime. Every once in a while you might run a sponge and some soapy water over them before hosing them off.
Today’s awnings are also extremely strong, durable and highly weather resistant. They are designed not to fade in harsh sunlight, nor split or crack from constant exposure to the elements. Your awnings will serve you well for many years.
5. Awnings add style to your home’s exterior
Window and patio awnings have come a long way in recent decades. Not only are they very functional, but they possess a lot of styles as well.
You can have awnings made to order in a variety of materials, styles and colours that blend in well with your existing colour scheme. The installation of awnings will also add a lot of value to your house, should you ever decide to put it on the market, way more value than the cost of the awnings themselves.
Who says only car windows can be tinted? Home window tinting is now a popular trend among homeowners and interior decorators – and not just for aesthetic purposes. Also called ‘solar window film’, window tinting your home by applying specially designed film sheets to the interior side of your glass windows has several benefits.
The benefits of home window tinting
1. Protect you & your family
The primary purpose of tinted windows at home is to protect you and your family from direct sunlight and harmful UV rays. At certain times of the day, sunlight causes more harm to the skin, which, as you may already know, may cause premature aging or even skin cancer. Window tinting helps deflect harmful UV rays by up to 99%. This is good news, especially to those who may have children or family members with extremely sensitive skin. You can easily have fun in the sun – but outdoors. Inside the home, you should be spared of sun exposure as much as possible.
A protective film not only helps combat harmful UV rays in your home – it can offer protection against hurricanes, tropical storms, bomb blasts, projectiles, break-ins, and more.
2. Protect your home
To those unfamiliar with home window tinting, it may come as a surprise that tinting home windows protect your house and your furniture as well. Sunlight is one of the many natural elements that cause the deterioration of home furniture like drapes, blinds, and the carpet. Window tinting effectively absorbs up to 70% of solar heat that will otherwise make its way into your home and onto your material possessions. This way, your furniture is bound to last much longer.
Beyond prolonging the life of your upholstery, window tinting also offers a measure of privacy for your home that can assist with security concerns.
3. Save on electricity
Another significant benefit of tinting your windows at home is for the environment. Believe it or not, tinted windows can quickly help you save up on electricity bills. As tinted windows absorb heat and deflect light, your house will be relatively cooler on the inside as compared to when you did not have window tints.
In fact, it can reduce the amount of heat that enters the home by up to 80 percent, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature – and cut back on expensive, carbon-producing air conditioning.
Applying home window tinting
Keep in mind that there are various products available. Some products are completely clear, which makes it possible to maintain the beautiful view of your home. Other products are opaque and help reduce heat transfer, while also adding privacy to your home. Consider which option is right for you, keeping in mind that there are numerous options.
In order to get the most out of the use of window tinting, it is often best to turn to a professional service for these needs. The company will work with you to determine what your needs are for this type of product. They will tell you if it is a good idea for your glass, what types are available, and how much it will cost. You can then make the decision to install it or not.
Because of a water shortage in many parts of Australia, rainwater tanks are nearly becoming a necessity for many households. If you don’t currently have a rainwater tank, you need to make sure that you choose one that’s best for you. And in this case, size does matter!
What is a rainwater tank and what are the benefits of it?
When it rains, rain will fall on your roof. It will then run through the gutter that is connected to the tank that will collect the water. The rainwater will be filtered before it reaches the tank which prevents leaves, insects, and other debris from falling into the tank. It then can be distributed to your home or garden for various purposes such as watering your plants, washing your car, or toilet flushing. Rainwater tanks can be installed in residential family homes as well as office and work properties.
Source: Shutterstock
What size water tank do I need?
Water tank size is important and you should take into account how much space you have for installation. Water tanks come in different capacities, ranging from a few hundred litres to a few thousand litres. The bigger the water tank’s capacity, the more space it will take in your home. Given that there is enough room in your home, you can decide on a bigger size water tank without worrying. Choose the most convenient spot for the installation of the water tank.
However, if you have limited space for a water tank, it makes more sense to choose a smaller water tank. You may also want to consider a concealed tank, such as a bladder tank, which can go under your deck or even beneath your house. Underground water tanks are also available. You can use the rainfall and roof area catchment calculator to determine which size rainwater tank suits you the best.
Calculating what size tank you need
Determining exactly how much water you want to flow into your tank is an important first step. This means you need to take into consideration the size of the catchment surface, which is your roof. Keep in mind that the bigger your roof is, the more water will be collected in the tank.
Make sure you calculate an estimate for how much rain you get in your area. A formula exists for calculating the size of your tank. You should determine the size by multiplying the area of your roof by the average rainfall in your region. This value represents the maximum measurement of water that you can expect to capture.
Next, calculate how many days you expect it not to rain, and multiply that figure by your average daily amount of water usage. This will help ensure you have enough water long before any dry spell. A prime example is if you have a dry spell lasting for two months or 60 days, and you use 500 litres of water each day. For this example, you would need 30,000 litres of water. On the other hand, someone who uses only 100 litres of water each day would only need a tank with a capacity of 6,000 litres.
How to choose a water tank?
Once you have determined the size of the water tank, you can move to the next deciding factors such as its material and the installation form. There a quite a few types of rainwater tanks available:
Round Corrugated Tanks
Slimline Water Tanks
Underground Water Tanks
If you say “I want the best for my house” you should inspect different models and do thorough research before deciding on one.
Source: Shutterstock
What type of rainwater tank should I choose?
Corrugated steel is the oldest and cheapest form of rainwater tanks. The material is long-lasting and fireproof, and it is recommended for larger-sized rainwater tanks. However, corrugated steel is prone to corrosion so therefore it needs a polyethylene protective lining.
Polyethylene or plasticrainwater tanks are the next cheapest option after corrugated steel. Both materials are light, yet strong and do not rust. These rainwater tanks experience wear when kept in the sun for too long, but not to worry – the materials are recyclable!
Steel-reinforced concrete rainwater tanks are highly durable and not prone to rusting. These tanks are structurally sound for permanent use underground, provided they are placed on a sturdy base that supports their total weight.
Fibreglass tanks are light and non-corrosive. However, their lightweight comes with a downfall; their thin walls allow light to pass through, which can encourage algae growth inside the water. This material can be thought to be the least popular for rainwater tanks.
Reasons for harvesting rainwater
When it rains, the rainwater cycle process picks up a heap of chemicals, pesticides and dissolved pollutants. By collecting rainwater in your tank, you protect the natural environment from the effects of the pollution. But not to worry – any pollutants in the water you collect will be thoroughly cleaned and safely contained by your implemented system.
Another reason why harvesting rainwater will benefit your life is that it decreases your reliance on main water supplies. If there happens to be a drought or any drainage of the groundwater, you’ll have your rainwater as a backup.
An obvious reason for harvesting rainwater is the reduced costs. Rainwater can be used for a number of things, which means you can watch your main water supply bill go downwards. Money win!
Water Tank Rebates Around Australia
Each state in Australia has a different rebate program that updates regularly. There is currently rebate programs in all states of Australia except the Northern Territory. Check your state government’s website for the latest rebates.
Amount of Water That You Use
You must keep in mind how you want to use the water that you collect. For those of you who are not on mains water and will be relying on this rainwater, you need a tank that’s adequately sized so you’re able to use the water for your everyday tasks, such as washing clothes, showering, drinking, flushing your toilet, and watering your lawn.
When rainwater is only a secondary source of water, you must think about how you will use it. If you plan to use it for your washing machine and toilet, you’ll need a larger tank. If it’s just for filling your pool and watering your garden, then a smaller tank will suffice.
Source: Shutterstock
Rainwater tank installation
Installing a rainwater collector is an economic and ecological solution for watering the garden, washing your car and other purposes. Near the roof, connected to the gutter, the tank collects and stores the rainwater. Regarding the outdoor rainwater tank, its installation is very simple: a downspout is necessary, it is a large diameter tube through which rainwater will reach the tank. You are perfectly free to install it at the place of your choice, preferably near a roof, or a network of gutters.
Unlike above ground systems, the underground tank offers a wider use of rainwater in your home. However, its cost is therefore higher.
For the installation of your buried rainwater tank, it is better to call a professional plumber service. Indeed, this operation is longer and more complex than an above-ground system. Installation of rainwater tanks may cost anywhere between $300-$1000 depending on its size and complexity.
With living a ‘greener’ lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular, it is important to always think of ways to sustain the environment for future generations. Harness this ‘free’ natural resource with a rainwater tank that best suits your personal needs.
FAQs
What are common rainwater tank pump problems, and can they be prevented?
Common rainwater tank pump problems include reduced flow, low pressure, and strange noises. These can be caused by clogged filters or pipes, damaged impellers, and faulty motors. To prevent these issues, perform regular maintenance on your pump, cleaning filters and checking for signs of damage or wear and tear. Additionally, ensuring that all pipes and fittings are secure can extend the life of your pump.
Why is my rainwater tank or soakwell overflowing?
If your soakwell is not draining properly, there might be a blockage in the system caused by debris such as leaves, roots, or soil. Another possible reason is a lack of maintenance, resulting in a buildup of sediment or sludge. If the soil around the soakwell has become waterlogged, it might not drain properly. So have a professional assess the issue to determine the best course of action for repairing the soakwell and restoring drainage.
How do you troubleshoot ClayTech pumps?
To troubleshoot a ClayTech pump, check if it’s switched on. If the pump isn’t receiving power, reset the circuit breaker. If the pump is still not working, check the inlet and outlet pipes for blockages or clogs. If the pipes are clear, the pump impeller is probably damaged or the capacitor has failed. In this case, you should contact a professional for further assistance. It’s important to maintain the pump to prevent costly issues.
