Older homes have charm, character and solid bones—but they’re also notorious for chewing through your power budget. Draughty gaps, outdated insulation, and ageing systems mean many homes built before the 1980s are quietly leaking energy (and money). If you’re seeing surprisingly high energy bills, the home itself may be the biggest culprit.
Whether you’ve just bought an older property or have been living in one for years, there are practical steps you can take to make it more efficient. Here’s what every homeowner should know about energy efficiency in old homes, and how to stop them from sending your power bill through the roof.
In older homes, the main areas responsible for energy loss are:
Knowing where the leaks are helps you target the right upgrades. A professional thermal imaging inspection is a smart first step. It’ll highlight exactly where warm or cool air is escaping, and which rooms need attention.
💡 Tip: Use ServiceSeeking to find qualified energy assessors or tradies offering thermal imaging inspections in your area.
A professional assessment is like a health check for your home’s efficiency. Licensed assessors look at insulation levels, appliance performance, air leakage, and heating/cooling systems to determine where your home is costing you most.
They’ll then suggest improvements that can deliver real savings—both short and long term. It’s a service that more than pays for itself in the long run.
Many older homes either lack insulation or have degraded materials that no longer do the job. Upgrading your insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency.
Areas that commonly need attention include:
Installing new insulation should always be done by a qualified professional—improper installation can lead to trapped moisture, sagging batts, and wasted money.
💡 Need insulation help? Get quotes from local pros on ServiceSeeking and compare before you commit.
Technology has come a long way since many older homes were first built. Swapping out old systems can make a significant dent in your energy bills:
These upgrades aren’t just about comfort—they’re an investment in lower bills and a higher property value.
Draughts are a major source of energy loss in older properties. They creep in through:
Tradies can seal these gaps using high-quality materials that blend with existing features, preserving your home’s character while improving comfort. They’ll also ensure you maintain enough ventilation to prevent mould or condensation issues.
Windows play a big role in a home’s thermal performance. If yours are single-glazed, aluminium-framed, or decades old, they’re likely costing you money every season.
Options to improve window efficiency include:
A window specialist can help you choose the right solution for your budget and style.
Depending on your state or territory, there may be rebates available for energy efficiency upgrades like:
Professional tradies are usually across the latest rebate programs and can help you navigate the paperwork to maximise your savings.
💡 Hiring a qualified tradie through ServiceSeeking means you’re more likely to get someone who understands rebate eligibility and compliance.
Retrofitting focuses on upgrading existing systems and features for better energy performance without completely gutting or rebuilding. Common retrofit projects include:
It’s a smart and lower-cost alternative to a full renovation—and it doesn’t mean compromising the original character of your home.
If your home is charming but power-hungry, it’s time to act. ServiceSeeking connects you with licensed electricians, insulation specialists, window installers, and home energy assessors who know how to upgrade older homes—efficiently and professionally.
Post a job today and compare quotes from local tradies ready to help you save on energy.