What is the Retrofit Whole House Approach?

The retrofit whole-house is a comprehensive solution to make our homes more energy-efficient and comfortable. But what exactly does it entail, and how does it work? 

Let’s break it down into simple terms. Imagine your house as a puzzle. 

The insulation, windows, heating, ventilation and appliances affect your home's comfort and energy efficiency. The retrofit whole-house approach involves looking at all these pieces together and finding ways to improve them collectively.

Step 1: Assessment

The first step is assessing your home’s energy usage and efficiency. This often involves an energy audit conducted by professionals. They’ll inspect your home, looking for areas where energy is wasted, or improvements can be made.

Step 2: Prioritisation

Once the assessment is complete, it’s time to prioritize the improvements. Not all upgrades will have the same impact or be cost-effective. The focus is identifying the upgrades that will provide the most significant benefits based on your budget and goals.

Step 3: Comprehensive Upgrades

With a prioritised list, it’s time to start making upgrades. This could include adding insulation, replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones, upgrading to a more efficient HVAC system, sealing air leaks, and improving ventilation.

Step 4: Monitoring and Optimisation

After the upgrades are made, monitoring your home’s energy usage is essential to ensure that the improvements are working as intended. This might involve tracking your energy bills, conducting periodic inspections, and adjusting as needed to optimise performance.

Benefits of Retrofit Whole House Approach:

1. Increased Comfort: By addressing issues like drafts, inconsistent temperatures, and humidity levels, you can make your home more comfortable year-round.

2. Energy Savings: Improving your home’s energy efficiency can significantly save your utility bills.

3. Environmental Impact: Reducing energy consumption helps lower your carbon footprint and contributes to a healthier planet.

4. Home Value: Energy-efficient homes are in demand and can command higher resale values.

The retrofit whole-house approach offers a holistic way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. By taking a comprehensive look at your home and making targeted upgrades, you can enjoy a more comfortable living space while saving money and reducing your environmental impact.