Beacon

Energy efficiency

Thermal performance

• Insulate ceilings to the Best Practice standard or higher as outlined in SNZ PAS 4244:2003.
• Insulate under the floor (where possible) to as high a standard as practicable
• Where renovations are already planned, install wall insulation to meet Best Practice as outlined in SNZ PAS 4244:2003.
• Where glazing or windows are in need of replacement, install low-e double glazing

Space heating

• Install a pellet burner or low-emission wood burner appropriately sized for the dwelling or, if not possible, an Energy Star rated heat pump with a coefficient of four or better.
• Heat transfer systems, if required, to ensure heat is supplied to all bedrooms and living spaces

Hot water

• Install a solar hot water system or heat pump hot water system
• Install low-flow shower heads (7-9 L/min)

Energy efficient bundle

• CFL lightbulbs, draught stopping of major draughts, polythene under floor, washing line if there is none

Water efficiency

Low-flow fittings

• Replace full-flush cisterns with AAA-rated dual-flush (3/6 litre) cisterns or replace whole toilet with AAAA-rated dual-flush (3/4.5 litre) toilets
• Put flow restrictors on kitchen, bathroom and outdoor taps
• Plumbing check – fix leak

Rainwater tanks

• 2000L (5000L if sufficient space) tank to supply outdoor uses, toilet and washing machine supply

Greywater reuse

• In areas of low rainfall, or where on-site sewage treatment systems are in place, reuse of greywater for outdoor uses or toilet

Indoor environment quality

Ventilation

• Install a showerdome or mechanical ventilation system in bathroom – vented to outside
• Install a rangehood in kitchen – vented to outside
• Provide venting to outside for any driers
• Install strip-passive vents in windows in living spaces or security stays to enable windows to be left open

Waste

Composting

• Provide worm farm or compost bin