Energy Efficiency
Saving energy doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. With a few smart changes, you can keep your whare warm, reduce your power bill, and help the environment.
Checking your power use is the first step to saving.
Use our Power Savings Calculator to identify where you can save money.
TAKE OUR QUIZ AND START SAVING
Check your power plan
Are you getting the best deal from your electricity retailer? Visit POWERSWITCH to compare plans and find one that works best for your household.
Making your whare warmer
Energy efficiency is an investment in the wellbeing of your whānau. It helps reduce emissions and ensures your home stays warm, dry and healthy without blowing the budget.
Explore the Smart Home website for tips and tools.
Warmth on a budget
Here are some simple ways to save energy every day:
- Close curtains at night to keep the heat in
- Seal gaps around windows, doors, and floorboards
- Only heat the rooms you are using
- Use the right-sized heater for your space
- Turn off lights when you leave a room
- Make sure your clothes dryer has adequate ventilation
- Make the most of natural light
- Remove plants that block sunlight
- Use a dehumidifier, wipe away condensation, and ventilate bathrooms and kitchens to reduce dampness
- Consider installing a heat pump – it’s one of the most efficient ways to heat your home
How much do your appliances cost to run?
Knowing the cost of heating, lighting, and household appliances helps you make smarter choices. Visit EECA Energywise for up-to-date information.
Heating and hot water tips
As the nights get cooler, it’s time to think about heating. There are lots of options:
- Fan heaters are a cost-effective way of heating rooms quickly. Use bathroom-rated models in wet areas.
- Storage heaters are a smart way to heat your whare if you’re at home during the day. They work by storing energy overnight when electricity is cheaper, and slowly releasing that energy throughout the day.
- Heat pumps are the most efficient option. For every 1kW of energy, you get 3kW or more of heat. We recommend optimal settings (i.e. 21 degrees C instead of 26 degrees C) to avoid overuse and high bills.
Hot water makes up around 40% of your electricity use. Switching to a pricing plan that meters hot water separately can save you money. Most customers won’t notice a change of service as we remotely control most electric hot water to keep costs down.
Visit Consumer Powerswitch to compare plans or contact your electricity retailer to make a change.
Waipā Networks water relays
A relay is a device on your meter board that lets us control your hot water. It helps reduce your power bill by shifting usage to off-peak times.
Why install a relay?
Because YOU’LL SAVE MONEY.
Customers with a relay pass pay less than those on uncontrolled rates.
Talk to your electricity retailer or give us a call if you have questions.