For the last 10 years Australians have seen a large increase in their energy prices and bills as a result of multiple factors such as plant closures, previous under investment in the energy grid and increased demand in the market.

The National Electricity Market (NEM) is undergoing changes to improve what is one of the world's largest interconnected electricity systems in the world. This will see modernization to meet consumer needs and integrate new technologies in addition to clean sustainable energy.

While these changes aim to address the rise in energy prices, Australians are unlikely to see major reductions in energy costs. This has led to the Australian Government helping consumers compare rates, suggesting high energy rated products, power saving tips and further educational resources.

One of the basic energy costs for households is heating and cooling which accounts for around 40% the total home energy use. This is not unusual given Australia's often harsh summer and bitter winter weather, where it is essential to be able to control the climate indoors to remain comfortable. However, for every degree you increase or decrease your heating or cooling, you are increasing the energy use between 5% and 10%.

There are multiple ways to decrease the usage and cost of energy on heating and cooling including shopping for lower energy prices, investing in the most energy efficient appliances and systems or utilizing the natural sun and breeze.

While all these options can help heat and cool the space effectively, a common oversight is ineffectively insulating and draught proofing the home around any entry points. This leaves the house vulnerable for heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter, causing additional energy use to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is a great energy inefficiency that is not commonly overlooked with entry points into the house that would be a key way for heat to either escape or enter.

Thermal Insulation acts as a barrier to disrupt the heat flow which can be up to 25% for walls as well as up to 25% for heat loss or gain due to air leakage. To ensure a comfortable household year-round a well-designed home will assist in greatly reducing the heating and cooling bills in addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Heat can be transferred through entry points such as an entrance door when thin materials, insufficient infills and thermally conductive materials are used. 4Ddoors powered by Hörmann brings to Australia the best thermally insulated door systems on the market that guard against heat transfer and draughts into the house.

Well-insulated door systems can save money in the long run by helping eliminate temperature gain or loss due to seasonal weather in Australia. With a range of Entrance Doors and Sectional Doors offering thermal insulation, weather proof seals and exceptional German design, every Australian home can find a door system that will help minimize heating and cooling losses. All this while still offering a great looking product to always achieve the perfect finish.