How Kingston Council's in-home energy assessment program supported one Parkdale household
Michael and Cathy, live in a 1950s three-bedroom home in Parkdale. Like many households across Kingston, they were facing increasing energy bills and wanted to reduce their reliance on gas, while also doing the right thing for the environment.
"We wanted to get off gas and better understand how our home was using energy," they said.
Understanding the home and its challenges
Before the assessment, the couple were experiencing higher energy costs and uncertainty about which upgrades would make the most difference. While they were motivated to act, they wanted reassurance that they were making the right decisions.
That's where Kingston Council's in-home energy assessment program helped.
Turning information into action
Delivered by Green Moves, the assessment provided tailored, independent advice about how the home was performing and what improvements would have the greatest impact.
"We probably would have made these changes anyway," they explained. "But the assessment increased our knowledge, confirmed what needed to be done, and really helped with decision-making."
The upgrades that followed
With support from the program, Michael and Cathy fully removed gas from their home by:
- Replacing gas hot water with an electric heat pump hot water system
- Replacing gas heating with reverse-cycle split systems
- Switching to an induction cooktop
- Permanently disconnecting remaining gas appliances
Since completing the upgrades, their energy bills have dropped significantly.
"Our bills are now next to nothing," they said. "And the house feels more efficient and comfortable to live in."
Advice for other Kingston residents
For residents feeling unsure or overwhelmed about electrifying their homes, their advice is reassuring.
Educate yourself first, they say, and get recommendations from trusted providers who can give clear, unbiased guidance.
They add that while they were already motivated, the Council's in-home assessment helped them move forward with confidence and clarity.
Looking ahead
With their home now fully electric, Michael and Cathy are already thinking about what's next - including an electric vehicle and home charging.
Through programs like the in-home energy assessment, Kingston Council is supporting residents to understand their energy use, reduce gas reliance, lower household costs, and create more comfortable, future-ready homes.
Click here to find out how you can save energy in your home.
