Australian Homes Don’t Have to Be Cold in Winter
Australians are enduring cold homes during winter, unlike many developed countries, but this should not be the norm.
Online discussions reveal numerous complaints about the cold temperatures inside Australian homes during the winter months, highlighting a significant issue.
The World Health Organisation has reported that a staggering 81 percent of Australian households have temperatures that fall below the recommended minimum of 16 to 18 degrees Celsius (64 Fahrenheit).
This problem can be attributed to several factors, as noted by Nicola Willand from RMIT University’s School of Property. She mentions that Australian homes lack proper insulation, have draughts, and possess inefficient heating systems.
Willand explains, “Warmth quickly escapes once the heating is turned off due to the movement of air between heated areas and colder walls and windows. This inefficiency makes heating both ineffective and costly.”
Australians tend to build large homes, leading to increased energy demands. Though new homes are more energy-efficient, heating such spacious areas can be financially burdensome for homeowners with significant mortgage payments.
As a result, many Australians have come to accept having cold homes in winter, unaware of the associated health risks. Cold indoor air poses health threats related to respiratory and heart health, infections, and mould.
Ms. Willand emphasizes the importance of proper heating, especially in rental properties where current standards in Victoria call for at least one heater in the living area, leaving bedrooms cold and susceptible to mould growth.
She also notes that the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) assumes that living room heaters are switched off during specific hours, leading to cold spaces in the mornings if homes are not well-insulated.
Furthermore, the Australian Building Code has historically overlooked energy efficiency practices, focusing more on natural disasters than heating issues. With rising energy prices and the need to address climate change, experts recommend sealing gaps, improving insulation, and installing double-glazed windows to keep homes warmer in winter.
