π Keeping Your House Cool for Less During Summer
βοΈ When the summer heat is on, making sure your house stays cool is a must. We all know cranking up the AC can hit the wallet hard, but fear not! There are some wallet-friendly strategies to keep you chill without breaking the bank.
Strategic Use of Curtains and Blinds:
Let your curtains and blinds be your cooling buddies. Keep them closed during the hottest part of the day to block out that intense sunlight. Go for light-colored window treatments β they reflect, not absorb, the heat.
Ventilation:
π¨ Maximise airflow by smartly opening windows and doors for a cross breeze. Thinking about installing ceiling fans or using portable fans? Great idea to keep that air circulating efficiently!
Insulation:
Donβt underestimate the power of good insulation! It doesnβt just keep you cosy in winter; it works wonders in maintaining a cool vibe during summer. Pay attention to the attic and roof space!
π³ Strategic Landscaping:
Natureβs shade! Plant trees strategically around your home to give you that natural coolness. Awnings or pergolas can also create shaded outdoor areas.
π Energy-Efficient Appliances:
If you're appliance shopping, go for the energy-efficient ones. They consume less electricity and emit less heat β a win-win for a cooler home.
Limit Heat-Generating Activities:
When the sun is blazing, avoid using appliances that generate heat. Opt for alternatives like grilling outdoors or air-drying clothes.
Cooling Bedding and Clothing:
Invest in lightweight, breathable bedding and clothing made from natural fibers. Cotton and linen are your summer BFFs.
Seal Leaks and Drafts:
Inspect for leaks and drafts! Seal gaps around windows, doors, and vents to keep that hot air from sneaking in.
Use of Heat-Reflective Paint:
Ever heard of heat-reflective paint? Consider applying it to your roof or exterior walls. It's like sunscreen for your house, reflecting sunlight and keeping things cool.
π‘οΈ Programmable Thermostat:
Upgrade to a programmable thermostat. It's like having your house on autopilot, optimizing energy usage for maximum comfort.
Implement these strategies, and you can keep your cool during the summer without sweating over energy bills. From simple curtain tricks to more significant insulation upgrades, there's a budget-friendly solution for everyone.
Stay cool, stay comfy, and enjoy the summer vibes without the budget blues! ππ‘
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What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesnβt 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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83.1% Yes
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14.6% No
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2.3% Other - I'll share below
Poll: When should the tree go up? π
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.7% Second half of November
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43.5% 1st December
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17.2% A week before Christmas
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33.5% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below