Keep your feet and homes cosy over winter

As temperatures drop, many households are bracing for the annual spike in power bills. But in New Zealand, the issue runs deeper than just colder weather. Poor insulation, damp homes and inefficient heating mean many families are paying more than they need to just to stay warm.

For households on the Hibiscus Coast, where winter often brings a mix of humidity and cooler nights, small changes can make a noticeable difference.

One of the biggest drivers of high energy costs is heat loss. Warm air escapes quickly from uninsulated ceilings, floors and draughty gaps, forcing heaters to work harder and run longer. Improving insulation is widely considered the most effective way to reduce power use over winter.

Most of us are aware of the quick fixes by ensuring windows and doors are properly sealed, curtains are thermal-lined and rooms meet insulation standards, but one area that is often overlooked is flooring.

According to Whangaparāoa’s Flooring People manager Melissa Maher, before you think of laying a carpet for warmth, a good underlay is essential for comfort and insulation properties. 

Carpet underlay heat is measured in Thermal Overall Grade or TOG and a good performing underlay will have a TOG of at least 2.5 to 3 to maintain good thermal insulation, Maher says. 

For the best insulation, you pair that with a wool carpet, which because it is made from natural fibres, means it can absorb up to 40 percent of its own weight in moisture without becoming wet to the touch, she says.

“Many people don’t realise this, but as well as having natural insulating properties, wool carpets also help reduce dampness in the air in winter, and in warm dry conditions, releases it back, creating a cooling effect.”

It’s also a practical option in terms of cleaning and maintenance, she says.

“Wool is naturally resistant to dirt and household stains. Hypoallergenic wool carpet is ideal for allergy and asthma sufferers as it does not promote the growth of bacteria, mould and mildew. This reduces the likelihood of spores, mycotoxins and volatile organic compounds from developing in the home, helping to prevent allergies and respiratory problems. Wool fibre also deters the growth of dust mites – the most common single cause of asthma.”

Another advantage of wool carpets is that they are locally produced.

“All the wool carpets manufacturers we represent have a great farm gate to store story, from the scourers, through to the spinners and manufacturing.

Alternatively, for those who don’t want to have fitted carpets, wool carpets can be easily made into runners and throw rugs, with underlay attached, Mahers says.