Tips to save your energy budget this winter
Rising costs and tightening household budgets are front of mind as we head into the winter months and as the temperatures start to cool off, the increased use of appliances to heat our homes can contribute to the biting energy prices.
To avoid the bill shock that can sometimes arrive in time with your next energy invoice, there are a few things that you can do to reduce energy consumption and the costs associated with it.
Fix draughty area
Look at areas where draughts may be prevalent in your home, typically under doors and windows. Around 40% of heat from the home escapes from windows and if you are a homeowner you may consider investing in double glazing which can bump up the energy efficiency of your home and have the added benefit of reducing sound.
If you are renting, many hardware stores have solutions for draught excluders around windows and doors.
Thicker curtains can keep colder air at bay and thicker rugs over hardwood floors can provide a cost-effective insulation approach.
Check hot water
Hot water usage can contribute a substantial amount to energy costs. Tips like adjusting the temperature as well as washing with cold water or ensuring that you are only washing full loads are key to reducing those energy outputs.
Turn off appliances
Appliances in standby mode, not in use, can still use energy. Even your phone charger that is switched on at the wall and not in use is still generating power.
If you are not using the appliance or going away, ensure that you are switching appliances off at the wall to reduce the energy consumption being used by those appliances.
Price check your c current plan
There is a myriad of energy suppliers in the market now. Check your current electricity and gas bills to make sure that you are getting the best deal and negotiate to find the best solutions for you.
Swap your light bulbs
Where possible, make the switch with your light bulbs to those that are the most energy-efficient for the types of light fittings that you have in your home. More energy-efficient bulbs use as much as 75% less electricity and have the added benefit of lasting longer, which means replacing less often.
Making a few small changes in our living spaces and habits can assist with reducing those energy bills and adds to one less shock the next time you receive your electricity or gas bill.
I'm available for advice on anything real estate. Contact me during the week, after work or at the weekend.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.5% Yes
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14.8% No
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2.8% Other - I'll share below
Riddle Alert! Who’s Up for Some Brain-Busting Fun?
4-letter word, always done tomorrow,
We’re out of tea, the ultimate sorrow!
Without the eye, you owe me some money,
No sugar no nectar no sweetness no honey,
4-letter word, if by chance you choose,
You can never win, you can only lose!
What is the 4-letter word?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
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