There are healthy alternatives to every part of the building process, so before choosing any product, ask to see the material safety data sheet. One thing particularly to look out for are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), found in structural components, cladding, textiles and furniture.

Heat pumps can heat water as well as the more common application of heating homes and are becoming a popular alternative to standard electric, gas and solar hot water systems.

They are more efficient than standard electric or gas cylinders.

Windows are one of the weak links in the thermal envelope of a house. Heat is conducted rapidly through the glass and frame, causing warmth to be lost. Thankfully windows are usually accessible and there are different ways of reducing this heat loss. Curtains are usually the first and best choice for reducing heat loss and making a house comfortable.

Heat pumps are one of the most efficient types of home heating, but some people find them ineffective or may even incur higher power bills because they don’t understand how to use them effectively. Understanding the different settings and how to programme them is crucial. This fact sheet explains how.

The New Zealand building code insulation levels have been much lower than other countries for a long time. Here is the schedule of the new insulation levels required, and how much energy use is reduced. For a better understanding of how a building will perform there are also calculation or modelling methods available./p>

Many New Zealand houses have issues with draughts. Draughts are undesirable because they basically allow cold air in and push your nice warm air out of the house. Draughts can appear in a variety of areas, but most commonly around windows and doors. Find out the ways we can reduce draughts.

Most of us have heard of the term passive solar design. Some of us may associate the idea with unconventional, but in fact mainstream builders, architects and homeowners are increasingly embracing the concept. Passive solar design is all about harnessing and storing the energy of the sun for release overnight.

Dollar for dollar, installing a polythene groundsheet (also called a moisture barrier or vapour barrier) is one of the best things you can do to improve the health and comfort of your home.

By putting a cap on rising damp you can lower the moisture level in your home, which will reduce condensation and mould.