Other places to get advice
Whether you’re designing a new home or considering renovations, you’ll have lots of questions on the best options to choose. While Beacon’s research is intended to identify those options, we’re not an advice centre. We share our findings with organisations who are set up to help consumers make those decisions.
Try the following sites to get the information you need:
Energywise
This EECA-run website is the centre of information on Government programmes to encourage energy efficiency, solar water heating and space heating options. Visit here to find out what the options are and what Government subsidies exist to help you. Visit here to find out about Energy Star products, the mark awarded to the top 25% most energy efficient appliances.
Home Energy Advice Centre
This independent, not-for-profit service provides free, impartial advice to help you decide on energy efficient options and upgrades for your home.
Call their toll-free number 0800 388 588 to speak to an advisor.
Consumer / Consumerbuild
Visit the Consumer website for independent, testing evaluations of appliances and heating/energy products and systems. Find out which brand is rated as giving the best performances and what issues to watch out for. The Consumerbuild website has independent advice on buying, building, renovating and maintaining homes.
Level
Developed by BRANZ (an independent building research, testing, consulting and information company) in tandem with Smarter Homes, this website gives more detailed advice on building and renovating for the construction industry. Expect to find more technical detail here.
Ecobob
The Ecobob website is all about making eco living easy. It’s a good place to find products, suppliers and ideas for environmentally friendly building and renovation.
Right Light
Find out more information on how to reduce household power bills through efficient lighting options.
Solar Industries Association
Find out which solar water heating products comply with the New Zealand Building Code and find an accredited supplier and installer who has a proven competence to install the systems.
Environmental Choice New Zealand
The Environmental Choice tick tells you that a product has been made with the environment in mind. Find out what products you should select.
Windows Association of New Zealand
WERS is a star rating system for windows - five stars is the highest rating, one the lowest. WERS assessment covers performance on winter heating, summer cooling, and prevention of fading. For advice on selecting the most energy efficient windows and glass.
