Ekkehard’s All-Electric Retrofit in Woodville Park
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Sustainable House Day is an annual event run by Renew, where homeowners across Australia open their doors—physically or virtually—to showcase how they’ve made their homes more energy-efficient, comfortable, and environmentally friendly. It’s a chance to learn directly from people who’ve built or retrofitted sustainable homes, and to explore practical solutions for greener living. Whether you’re renovating, building, or just curious, it’s a great way to see what’s possible.
One standout example from this year’s event is Ekkehard’s retrofitted 1912 cottage in Woodville Park, SA.
Ekkehard, a member of the Mission Possible group, has spent years improving his home to make it comfortable and energy-efficient. After moving in during the 1980s, he noticed the home didn’t handle Adelaide’s weather well, so he began upgrading it step-by-step.
Heating and Cooling Improvements
Cooling Improvements
- Started with evaporative cooling to manage dry heat.
- Later switched to reverse cycle systems for more consistent climate control all year.
Heating Improvements
- Removed fireplaces due to asthma concerns.
- Tried ceiling-mounted radiant heaters, then replaced them with reverse cycle air-conditioning, which is more effective and uses less energy.
Hot Water System Upgrade
- The original electric hot water system used a large share of household energy.
- Replaced with a heat pump, which is more efficient and significantly reduces power use.
Solar Panel Expansion
- Installed solar panels early and added more over time.
- Built a large pergola to accommodate extra solar panels and support growing energy needs.
Insulation and Draft Sealing
- Added seals to all external and internal doors to reduce air leaks and improve indoor temperature control.
Ekkehard’s upgrades have made his home more comfortable, affordable to run, and better for the environment. You can learn more and explore the listing on Sustainable House Day’s website.
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