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Treat your windows





            •  Stop the heat from escaping in winter or entering during summer by adding block-out curtains and
               pelmets internally, adding window films and adding external window shading. Laros Technology is a local
               Canberra business that sells triple glazed doors/windows, air sealing systems, heat pump hot water and
               heat recovery ventilation. Also check out local double-glazing businesses Solace Creations or Architech.


            •  If you are a renter rather than a homeowner, to better insulate your windows, you can put Perspex with
               Velcro, or bubble wrap on Western and Southern Windows. It can easily be removed and insulates your
               home while still letting the light in – and basically operates like a super cheap form of double-glazing.




            Go solar! Support renewable
            energy by installing solar panels




            •  For help and advice on finding the best solar panels to suit your property (along with a bunch of other
               services to make your home energy efficient), check out the Power Saving Centre Canberra. You can also
               compare solar panel providers online at Solar Choice.
            •  Make sure that the company you end up deciding on to install your solar panels is accredited by the Clean
               Energy Council. You can search for accredited solar panel installers here.





            Go electric





            Change to high efficiency electrical heating when your gas appliance is near  the end of its life.






            Why electricity is surpassing gas as the heating system of choice

            Electricity is becoming preferable to gas as:

            •  Electrical appliances are much more efficient and safer than gas (for example, heat pumps vs gas boilers,
               induction cooktops vs gas), making electricity cheaper than gas.
            •  Green electricity can be purchased but not green gas.
            •  Solar panels are more affordable now, and can offset costs.

            •  Gas prices are projected to rise further, especially due to policy uncertainties in gas extraction and gas
               exports.

            Buy energy efficient appliances. This includes switching to an induction electric cooktop to get off gas (they
            are much more efficient and function as well or better). As heating/cooling uses 38% of our home energy




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