Libraries help maximise home energy, water efficiency
Published on 20 March 2024
Nobody wants a thief in their house but what if a hidden culprit was taking money out of your pocket?
Inefficient houses can cost residents a surprising amount when the bills arrive.
Corangamite Moyne Library Service branches have home energy and water efficiency kits available to borrow.
Library user Brendan Donahoo said the Energy Audit kits had been a great resource for his household.
“The kit was easy to use, and the accompanying information helped navigate a whole range of options for me to explore how we could set up simple and easy changes in our household to start saving a significant amount on our household energy costs.
“Reviewing our home energy use and setup has been on my mind for a long time and this kit and the connected information was the catalyst that helped me plan the steps needed towards action in reducing our energy consumption and saving dollars.”
Corangamite Shire Mayor Cr Kate Makin said the kits can help residents understand their energy and water use and take steps to reduce their household consumption.
“The kits have four handy tools to assess your home,” Cr Makin said.
“Finding where you can improve your home’s electricity, gas or water can save money on your utility bills.
“It can also help the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
Moyne Shire Mayor Cr Ian Smith said most of us used appliances, air-conditioning and heating without thinking much about where the power came from.
“These kits will help give you a real picture of what your day-to-day needs cost,” Cr Smith said.
“If there are any rude surprises, you’ll be able to take action and have more money to spend on the enjoyable things”.
The tools include:
The Power-Mate Lite shows how much electricity an appliance uses and what it costs you.
A Thermal imaging camera shows hot and cold areas around your house. It will show you where there are draughts, water leaks or missing insulation.
An energy-saving thermometer shows the appropriate operating temperature for heating, cooling, hot water service, fridge and freezer. It will let you know if you should adjust your settings.
A Water flow measuring cup will tell you the how much water your shower and taps use in litres per minute.
The kit also has a guide that covers how to use the tools, safety tips, making a personalised energy saving action plan and links to more information.