Energy efficiency basics elude many Kiwis

Kiwis are pretty clued up on insulation, but aren't too savvy when it comes to some of the simpler energy efficiency measures around the home, according to latest research from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

About 65% of us don't have - or don't know if we have - a hot water cylinder wrap, which can save up to $140 a year on an older electric cylinder.

Despite the high number of old, draughty homes in New Zealand, 57% of respondents said they had no draught-stopping, which prevents heat disappearing through gaps around doors and windows.

The findings are part of EECA's quarterly research that tracks the nation's views on energy efficiency and renewable energy. The research provides a snapshot - and tracks change over time - on attitudes to different energy issues at home, on the road, at work, and around where our energy comes from.

"This quarter's findings highlight that many of us still have a lot to learn about day-to-day energy efficiency measures, but the beauty is that these are really simple things for people to do, and it all adds up", says EECA Chief Executive Mike Underhill.

"We estimate that, just by doing a few easy things, the average household can reduce their electricity use by around 10%, and make their homes warmer and more comfortable at the same time. That's about $220 for an average household and, if every household did it, the country would be around $350 million a year better off - which is great for the economy and the environment."

In the case of draught-stopping and hot water cylinder wraps, both can be solved by a trip to the hardware store and some basic DIY.

Other findings about simple energy efficiency measures:

• 42% of people aren't sure if their hot water pipes are wrapped with insulation (lagged) to reduce heat loss. To check, see if the pipe coming out of your hot water cylinder has any insulation around it, or if any other accessible hot water pipes are insulated (especially those leading to taps you use everyday). Insulate hot water pipes you can access - you can buy pipe insulation (lagging) at hardware stores and easily fit it yourself.
• In spite of the average car's annual fuel bill being around $2200, 61% of people aren't driving maximize fuel economy all the time - which means they're wasting fuel. With some simple driving techniques and good car maintenance, you can cut your fuel use by up to 20%.
• The majority of people rarely or never switch washing machines (54%) and televisions (64% of people) off at the wall when not using them. We waste over $100 million a year across the country by leaving our appliances on stand-by.
• Most people who are using energy efficient light bulbs are happy with them - 85% of people using them are willing to keep using them in future.

Visit www.energywise.govt.nz for many more simple energy efficiency tips.