energy saving tips

Energy Saving Tips for a Warmer, Healthier Home

4 July 2025

Here are some simple things you can do to save money on energy bills while making your home warmer and healthier.

1. Keep Your Home Warm and Dry

3 steps to a warmer home

Seal in warmth
Heating your home can be costly, so focus on keeping the warmth in and cold air out:

  • Close curtains at dusk – especially lined, full-length curtains that overlap window frames. Pelmets help even more.
  • DIY window insulation kits – a low-cost way to reduce heat loss.
  • Stop draughts – use draught stoppers and weather-sealing tape around windows and doors.

Heat efficiently

  • Use heaters only when needed – turn them off if you’re not in the room.
  • Set the thermostat to 18–20˚C for comfort and energy savings.
  • Heat one room at a time – close doors and draw curtains to keep warmth in.
  • Use the right-sized heater for your space – and avoid leaving heat pumps on all day.

Keep moisture out

Clear underfloor vents – keep them free from plants or blockages to allow airflow.

Fix leaks and clear gutters – water from outside can create dampness inside.

Use a ground vapour barrier – place black plastic sheeting under

2. Improve Ventilation and Reduce Moisture Indoors

Moisture from daily activities
Everyday tasks like cooking, showering, and washing add moisture to your home:

  • Use extraction fans – ideally ones that vent to the outside.
  • Open windows – during or after cooking and bathing if you don’t have fans.

Drying laundry

  • Avoid indoor drying – use a vented dryer or dry clothes outdoors whenever possible.
  • Don’t vent dryers indoors – the moisture stays trapped in your home.

Air out your home

  • Open windows and doors daily – even during winter, to let damp air escape.
  • Open cupboards and wardrobes – to prevent moisture buildup inside them.
  • Ventilate bedrooms overnight – even just cracking a window helps.
  • Air bedding outdoors – duvets and pillows absorb moisture and need fresh air.

Avoid unflued gas heaters

  • These release toxic fumes and increase dampness. Safer alternatives include electric heaters or heat pumps.

3. Save Energy on Lights, Water, and Appliances

Lighting

  • Switch off lights when you leave a room.
  • Install LED sealed down lights – they last longer and can save over $100 a year.

Hot water use

  • Install efficient showerheads – they use less water without compromising pressure.
  • Shorter showers = big savings – a family of four could save around $900 a year by taking 5-minute showers.
  • Wash in cold water – it’s just as effective and uses far less energy.

Appliances

  • Turn off standby power – TVs, consoles and computers can cost over $100 a year if left on.
  • Manage towel rails – left on all day, these can cost up to $170 a year. Use a timer to reduce usage.
  • Second fridge? Rethink it – old or underused fridges can cost up to $200 a year. Consider turning it off or upgrading.
  • Check fridge seals – worn seals make your fridge work harder and waste power.

    Want a warmer, drier home and lower power bills this winter? Call the team at AB Electrical! We can help you with smart, energy-saving solutions - from installing efficient heating and lighting to ventilation and insulation support. Let’s make your home more comfortable and cost-effective.

    Call us today to book your FREE winter check-up!

    👉 Email: office@abelectrical.co.nz
    Subject line: Warm Home
    📞 Or call Clynt or Howard: 0800 688 244

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