Who is an eco-design advisor?
The Eco-design advisor is an independent specialist who provides free information and advice to homeowners on home building projects to ensure that their houses are healthier, drier and warmer.
You can ring the eco-design advisor on the council number for advice, or make an appointment for a two hour free consultation at your home. They are available to make suggestions on:
- Insulation
- Draught stops
- Power saving measures at your home
- Solar water heating
- Heat pumps
It might even reduce your power bill!
Tips from our eco-design advisor
How to make your home warmer, drier and greener:
- Make sure you put your extractor fan on in the kitchen before you start cooking to reduce excessive moisture
- Avoid recessed downlights as you lose valuable heat through the ceiling because you can’t place insulation over them
- If you can’t afford double glazing, put plastic or a thin film over your windows, particularly those that are south facing. This will reduce the amount of heat you lose through you windows
- Avoid using unflued gas heaters - they create water vapour and release chemicals which can be harmful to your health and the environment
- If you're extending your house or planning to build, make the most of the sun and orientate your plans to the north
- You can also plant deciduous trees, rather than evergreens on the western side of your property to make the most of the winter sun
Want to know more?
Our eco-design advisor has got lots more tips just like this and can meet you at our offices or see you in your home, office or prospective building site. To set up an appointment you can email ecodesign@huttcity.govt.nz or phone 570 6666.
Bring along your building ideas and questions and we will give you tailored advice on energy, water, waste material and building related health issues - which can save you money by improving the energy efficiency of your home.
Check out our Eco-Design Advisor Series Infosheets:
How much does it cost?
See our fees and charges page for the cost of services as part of the environmental sustainability initiative.