DRAFTY houses and lack of insulation are costing families across Victoria big power bills, according to a lobby group.
Environment Victoria has called on the State Government to aid the 1.9 million Victorians whose homes were built before 2005 and have an average efficiency rating of less than two stars.
Electricity prices in the state have risen by 84 per cent on average over the last five years and among those who noticed the hit on the pocket was Ormond single-parent Brett Hedger.
"The boys and I work pretty hard to save electricity and gas," Mr Hedger said.
"In winter we rug up, and try to seal up the lounge.
"But the house does not make it easy.
"You can feel the cold coming in round the windows and doors, and it is impossible to keep cool in summer."
One Million Homes co-ordinator Charlie Davie said with government support, most of the older homes could be raised to four or five star standard for a reasonable cost.
He said the low-efficiency homes were costing bill payers plenty and the government needed to step in to help.
"Improving the performance of homes makes sense because it helps people deal with the rising cost of living, improves the comfort of our homes and takes a big chunk out of our greenhouse gas emissions at the same time," Mr Davie said.
"Even an average home has plenty of room for improvement.
"These one star homes are costing householders far too much to heat and cool.
"The general standard of older homes, with their gaps, drafts and poor fittings, doesn't keep homes warm in winter.
"Electricity prices in Melbourne have risen by 84 per cent in the last five years, so it is really hitting people hard."