"Under our home energy saver programme, you can get a free assessment of how your home rates when it comes to energy use. Our service provider Home&dry will give you impartial advice and simple tips on heating, insulation, lighting and water use, and a detailed action plan.

Michelle Isaac and her family recently had their home assessed and went on to install insulation in the ceiling and a 'ground vapour barrier', which consists of heavy-duty black polythene laid on the earth under the house. They already had under-floor insulation, but the polythene will stop damp air rising into the house. "The house is definitely warmer," says Michelle.

"Even though we haven't really had a proper cold snap yet, it feels like it will make a real difference."

They also had a low-flow shower head installed, which will use less hot water and pay for itself within a year. Products like these can be installed on-the-spot by Home&dry and the Council will pay up to 50 percent of the total cost, up to $115.

To book your free home assessment, email enquiries@homeanddry.co.nz or phone 0508 466 363.

Top tips:

•     Insulate the ceiling and under the floor - get a 33 percent government subsidy.
•     Thick black polythene sheeting (from a DIY store) on the ground under the floor will stop damp, cool air from rising into your house.
•     Wrap your hot water cylinder and lag your hot water pipes - this will pay for itself in less than a year.
•     Wood burners, heat pumps and gas central heating are much more efficient than other forms of heating and will make your home drier, warmer and cheaper to heat. Get a $500 government grant for installing one of these approved heating devices.
•     Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs - it's the most cost-effective action you can take in your home.
•     Insulating walls and double glazing can make significant differences to the warmth and comfort of your home"

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