What You’ll Find in a Person’s Home in Australia That You Won’t Find in the United States
When comparing a person's home in Australia to one in the United States, one finds a variety of unique features and challenges that can set them apart. This article explores several notable differences, from the playful to the perilous.
Unusual and Distinctive Features of Australian Homes
Australia is not just known for its intriguing wildlife, but also for its distinctive architectural and household peculiarities. From safety features to unique amenities, let's delve into the peculiarities of Australian homes and the challenges they present.
1. Switched Outlets
One of the standout features of an Australian home is its switched outlets. In addition to providing convenience, this safety measure has a logical explanation. Every wall outlet plate in Australia has a switch for each outlet, giving you the option to turn them on or off as needed. This feature is more than just an option; it's an essential safety tool. Moreover, the plugs used in these outlets are designed with safety in mind, with the ground or earth pole making contact in the socket before the live and neutral poles. This design is actually shared with the UK and significantly reduces the risk of electric shock. The Australian standard for electricity is 230V at 50Hz, a standard you won't find in the US.
2. Common Outdoor Amenities
Australian homes often come with outdoor features that are not as prevalent in the US. For instance, if you have a backyard, you are more likely to find a clothes line specifically designed for hanging laundry. Most of the time, the climate in Australia is warm, making outdoor drying a practical and energy-efficient choice. However, during the rainy season, you might need to take your laundry indoors.
3. Unusual Wildlife in the Home
Apart from the iconic kangaroos and koalas, which are more commonly associated with wildlife sanctuaries, Australian homes can also host a variety of less visible but equally remarkable residents. One of the most common and terrifying inhabitants are spiders. Particularly, the King Brown snake and Funnel Web spider present a serious threat. The former can deliver a lethal bite, leaving you with just enough time to exclaim "Fuck me, wasn't that a…" before succumbing. The latter, on the other hand, offers a more frantic but potentially survivable scenario where you have time to make it to the hospital. While many homes might not house such dangerous creatures, they are still prevalent enough to make seeking advice from pest control a common practice. Therefore, if you're considering a move to Australia, it's essential to equip yourself with knowledge about local wildlife and safety precautions.
4. Tiny Refrigerators and Lizards
In terms of kitchen appliances, Australian refrigerators tend to be smaller and have built-in spaces that are narrower than their American counterparts. There was a time when this was a significant feature, but as the home DIY craze has taken hold, larger refrigerators and stainless steel finishes have become more standard. Between 2015 and 2017, there was a shift towards bigger appliances, but smaller sizes are still more common in apartments.
Another unique feature of Australian homes is the presence of lizards, particularly skinks, which can be quite aggressive. Neighbors and friends often mention having lizards in their homes, and closing the sliding door to prevent them from entering is a common advice.
Finally, the Kiwi electric kettle is a staple in Australian kitchens, commonly found in almost every home. Unlike in the US, boiling water can be a quick and convenient task, thanks to this ubiquitous appliance.
In conclusion, while there are many similarities between homes in Australia and the United States, there are also distinct differences that make each country's living experience unique. Whether it's switched outlets, an abundance of lizards, or the presence of certain wildlife, these features contribute to the charm and character of Australian homes.