By Denise Aubourg of Electrify 2515
You know Murphy’s Law tells us your hot water system will conk out in the middle of winter when your kids are standing naked and screaming and your house guests are about to arrive. When you make the urgent decision to buy a new hot water system, you will probably be thinking about what’s easiest, not what’s best. That’s why it’s important to do your research ahead of time, so you're ready to act when the time comes.
While making New Year’s Resolutions, why not make one for your home? Make a plan on how to phase out your fossil fuel powered machines with efficient electric versions and in what order. You don’t need to replace everything in your home at once, but rather ensure that every future appliance is the efficient, electric version.
So start by listing your oldest appliances and the big gas users.
The main categories to go electric include:
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Hot water system
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Space heater
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Cooktop
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Car
And then to power these with a renewable source – namely solar power and possibly a household battery.
Do I need to upgrade to three-phase wiring?
Most Australian homes and apartments have a single-phase electrical connection from the street and can continue to use this as they transition to an all-electric home. If you install a large solar system or need to charge multiple electric vehicles simultaneously, you may need to upgrade to three-phase power.
What else do I need to research?
It’s a good idea to know what government rebates you may be eligible for or other financial products, electric appliance options and local installers who use them and how to go about disconnecting your gas.
Electrify 2515 has a guide to making a Household Electrification Plan and so does Wollongong Council so check out the below links. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and electric year ahead!
