Homes that are warmer and drier are much better for our families to live in. Here’s a quick and simple checklist from Sustainability NZ on what to look out for when you are looking to find the right house for your family to buy or rent.
- Does it take advantage of the sun? The main living areas should be north facing, to encourage heating from the sun.
- Is the home well insulated? Insulation stops heat escaping, making the house easier to heat and more energy efficient. Good insulation also reduces health problems associated with cold, damp homes.
- Is the home well ventilated? Poorly ventilated homes are unhealthy because moist air causes condensation associated with poor health. Check window frames for water damage; a sure sign of condensation and poor ventilation.
- Are there signs of mould? Mould is a sure sign of a damp house. Check ceilings, especially in the bathroom and kitchen.
- Do the windows stop heat loss? A lot of heat is lost through windows. Double-glazed windows are best – alternatively look for well-lined floor to ceiling curtains.
- How efficient is the hot water system? Hot water heating is expensive and can waste a lot of power and money. The cylinder and pipes should not be warm to touch. If they are, they may need to be insulated or replaced.
- Are the appliances energy efficient? The appliances in a home can contribute significantly to your power bill. Check the energy efficiency of the existing appliances by looking for the energy rating or by using a power monitor to measure how much power each appliance uses.
To find out more from Sustainability NZ click on the following image.
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