We know, it’s a hard one to accept. But inevitably, Winter is here.

However, here at Awarua Synergy, we like to take a different approach and get excited about preparing you and your home for taking on another chilly Southland season. Helping you beat the Winter rush is what we’re best at, so let’s get you sorted for a warm, cosy Winter the whole way through.

CLOTHING OPTIONAL

In fact, once you have your insulation sorted, we reckon your home will be so well heated that clothing will become optional altogether.

WHAT WE OFFER

Whether it’s your home, farm or business, we have an extensive range of energy solutions that are not only effective but extremely efficient and eco-friendly. Just because Winters are cold, doesn’t mean your sanctuary has to be. We don’t just focus on keeping the heat in, we’re also all about keeping the cold out.

There’s plenty of things you can do to ensure you’re ready to take on the cold, all while getting power over your power bills so you don’t have to dread the dollar figure. We’ve searched the world for the best products, tailored specifically to the Deep South’s climate.

INSULATION

Let’s talk insulation. Our team are the experts in insulation and its installation. Not sure where to start? We can give you a hand to explore all your options – whether it’s using household names like Glass Batts or high-specification, natural eco-insulation such as Terrra Lana. Whatever the size or demands of your home, business or farm, whatever the budget, we can make insulation work for you.

HEATING

Next is heating. We stock a wide range of heat pumps and can install them for you quickly and smoothly – taking the hassle out of preventing dampness and moisture which of course, leads to mold. To keep your family or staff healthy and snug, have a chat with us to talk through your options.

WHAT ELSE?

Not to mention, we’ve also got LED lighting to reduce electricity costs and stop heat from escaping your space. We can also install Econergy heat pump water heaters to slash your hot water costs, or Solar PV for a more sustainable, and in some cases, more practical solution to heating your home, farm or business.

Sound good? Give us a call on 0800 WARM SOUTH today and get one step ahead of Winter.

This time last year we attended the Southland Home Show after two false starts due to Covid-19 restrictions – it’s crazy to think how far we’ve come. While we know the virus is still very much a real thing for all of us, we’re so excited to be heading to the show again on June 26-27 with a little bit more assurance we’re going to be able to meet with our valued customers, new ones, and our community face-to-face in one place.

WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?

Every year, thousands of Southlanders and out-of-towners flock to ILT Stadium Southland for one of the biggest showcases of building, home and living the region has seen. From home appliances to spa pools, roofing solutions and more, there’s so much to explore over the two-day event. It all started in 1996 and has grown hugely since with more stalls and more to see and do every year. It gives Southlanders a chance to find all the solutions they need in one place while connecting with the businesses in their community.

OUR STALL

Our team at Awarua Synergy are stoked to be hosting a stand again so we can meet with people and share information about the services we offer. Ever since we started over 15 years ago, our mission has remained the same – to make Southland homes warm, dry and healthy. During that time we also expanded our services to provide energy solutions to farms and businesses too, a move we’re really proud of and grateful to be doing. If you’re interested in what we can do for you, bring along some questions and we’ll be more than willing to answer them and put you on the right track to a warmer Winter.

COME SEE US

“We can’t wait to see you there and tell you all about Awarua Synergy. Come on down and film a video testimonial with us and we’ll give the first 10 people a $100 pressie card on the spot!’’ – Awarua Synergy Customer Advocate Jackie Bragg

Want to get in contact before the event? Talk to one of our friendly, experienced staff by phoning 0800 WARM SOUTH and we’ll get you sorted.

With the ever-increasing focus on protecting our environment, solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) technology has taken off around the globe. Not only is it clean, it’s the most abundant, renewable source of energy on earth.

WHAT IS SOLAR ENERGY?

The sun is ultimately responsible for our weather systems and energy sources, so much so, the amount of solar radiation that hits the surface of our planet in an hour could pretty much cover our energy needs globally for an entire year. Solar PV is constantly evolving and becoming more effective – and it’s not going to stop.

WILL IT WORK FOR SOUTHLANDERS?

It works because solar panels convert light from the sun into electricity. This can be used in your home, farm, business, exported to the grid when it’s not needed, and can also heat water. It’s a key solution to tackling the current climate crisis and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

Because of our long daylight hours in Southland and the accessibility we have to solar panels, solar power generation is the logical choice if you’re wanting to become more self-sufficient and avoid the ongoing rise in power bill costs.

HOW WE CAN HELP

The team at Awarua Synergy are experts in helping you find the right Solar PV solutions to maximise the productivity off existing roof space, and can also provide you with an independent financial report. We have a range of packages to suit whatever the need.
We’ve searched the world for the best Solar PV products and solutions for our Deep South, and now we’re helping hundreds of customers in Southland and Otago capitalise on emergent technology that can potentially even pay for itself in just a few years – or even sooner.

STILL UNSURE?

Get some advice from our skilled, friendly team at Awarua Synergy to find the best option for you. For more information or to get a free, no obligation quote, call 0800 WARM SOUTH.

From industrial workshops to home studios, games rooms and farm sheds, whatever we use it for, Southlanders love a good shed. 

However, they can also be major hothouses in summer and freezing cold in the winter. Because of the extreme shift in temperature, it can cause a lot of damage – whether it’s your tools, boat, computer, art supplies or treasured items. 

While most of us spend more time in our home than we do in our shed, it’s important to make sure you’ve got adequate insulation and ventilation in there too. 

INSULATION 

There are several ways you can go about insulating a shed. When deciding on the type of insulation needed, you should always remember that there are a few separate areas you need to improve: the walls, the floor, windows, and doors. 

Underfloor and wall insulation are one of the best methods for achieving temperature control all year round, especially during those colder months. Gaps are the ideal passage for air to slip through, so sealing windows and doors are a must. If you apply a hardening foam filler along the edges and gaps, this can be the simplest and most effective solution for stopping runaway air.

VENTILATION

Getting enough air flow in your shed prevents things from overheating or producing toxic fumes, this is vital for your health and the lifespan of what you’re storing. Not only is heat uncomfortable when you’re in your shed, it can also cause mold to grow and things to rust. 

To keep the air fresh and consistently flowing, consider keeping the door open on days where the weather is fine. Alternatively, look into installing a screened vent in your roof, a wind driven roof ventilator to help remove moisture, or a turtle vent, also known as an exhaust vent, which is also a great way of generating healthy air flow.

STILL UNSURE?

Some of these options are more cost-effective but offer less insulation and protection, so we recommend seeking advice from our skilled, friendly team at Awarua Synergy to find the best option for you. For more information or to get a free, no obligation quote – call 0800 WARM SOUTH.

There’s actually no better time to start preparing to lose the kw’s from that Winter weight than now. Planning ahead is essential, and we want to be the ones to help you get your home ready for what is likely to be another chill-filled Southland Winter. Here’s some tips to get you on track to achieving a healthier home, farm or business environment.

INSULATION COMES FIRST

When it comes to keeping a space warm and dry, insulation is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. First and foremost, New Zealand healthy home standards recommend tackling the ceiling insulation before anything else. It’s no secret that hot air rises, so making sure your ceiling is well insulated is going to really help with preventing any of that warm air you have circulating around your home or work space from escaping out and going to waste. It’s also one of the cheapest and most effective ways to put a stop to runaway heat. Once you’ve got that sorted with the advice of our skilled team at Awarua Synergy, then we can start to look at options for insulating your walls and underflooring.

THE POWER OF THE HEAT PUMP

There’s no doubt about it, heat pumps are the gift that keeps on giving. Unlike some heating solutions, all it takes is a push of a button and a bit of temperature adjustment to feel the immediate benefits. One of the other bonuses a heat pump provides is that they also work as a cooling device, so you can make the most of them all year round. The New Zealand Government has recognised their brilliance, and depending on your situation, may even provide a subsidy to help cover the cost of getting one installed at your place. When used properly, they can be a super efficient way to cut energy costs without compromising on warmth. Warmer Kiwi Homes has a list of approved heat pump models that the grant covers. To see if you qualify for the financial assistance or get advice on the right heat pump for your home, get in touch with our team today.

THINKING ABOUT GOING SOLAR?

Energy efficiency and sustainable heating systems go hand in hand. The massive moves forward in Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) technology provide a real opportunity for keeping spaces, especially farms, warm and dry. If you’ve thought about generating your own energy, you’re heading in a positive direction. With our longer days and hotter temperatures in the Deep South, it’s an ideal time to start making the most of the Summer weather. The team at Awarua Synergy are experts in helping farmers, as well as businesses and homeowners, find the right solar powered solutions that consistently generate the kind of power you want and need.

If in doubt, contact the friendly team at Awarua Synergy today on 0800 WARM SOUTH and we’ll set you on the right track.

Air sealing is one of simplest yet most effective ways to lock in the heat and stop it from escaping out those cracks and gaps in your home. With the right solution, it is a hugely cost-effective way to cut heating costs, increase comfort, improve durability and create an all round healthier home environment. The most common places air can sneak through are doors and window frames, attic hatches, cents and fans, baseboards and electrical outlets.

WHAT IS CAULKING

Caulk or caulking is a sealing material used to seal joints or seams to prevent leakage in various structures and piping (like no more gaps). Most caulk products come in disposable cartridges that fit in a caulking gun. The best time to apply caulk is during fine weather – always make sure the area is clean and dry before application. If possible, try caulk window and door frames at a consistent angle and in one straight, continuous stream to avoid stops and starts which are less effective.

TO CAULK OR NOT TO CAULK

Whether it’s a door or window frame, caulking is a great way to cover up cracks and small openings less than one quarter-inch wide on the stationary objects in your home that don’t open or close.  Caulking can also prevent water damage inside and outside your home when used around ceiling fixtures, drains, faucets and other plumbing fixtures. If the caulk starts to ooze out of a gap, use a putty knife to push it back in to avoid any gaps in the sealant where air can get through.

WHY WE  WEATHERSTRIP

If you’re trying to seal components that move such as doors and usable windows, weatherstripping is the best option. Always choose a type of  weatherstripping capable of withstanding the elements – from  friction to temperature changes, weather and the wear and tear the area might be susceptible to. This means if you’re applying it to a door bottom, weatherstripping could drag on carpet or wear away from feet walking in and out. It’s also  important to make sure you work with the sliding of panes whether it’s up and down, out or sideways. The weatherstripping should always seal well when the door or window is closed, without restricting it from opening.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEATHERSTRIPPING Choose the right product for the location. Felt and open-cell  foams can be  cheaper but they’re also often ineffective when it comes to blocking airflow. While vinyl is a bit more expensive, it holds up well and resists moisture. Metal weatherstripping is both affordable and long-lasting – and also adds a nice aesthetic to older homes.

STILL UNSURE?

For more tips on keeping the air in and the cold out, as well as ventilation, contact the team at Awarua Synergy today for professional, quality advice.

With the ever increasing rate of climate change, there’s no better time than now to start adapting the way you use energy in the home. Making your energy use sustainable not only saves the planet, it saves you money so you have more freedom to spend on other things.

LED VERSUS DOWNLIGHTS

Swapping downlights for IC rated LED lights is a no-brainer when it comes to energy efficiency. Longer  lasting and containing no harmful gases, they’re good for your carbon footprint and your pocket. They’re also significantly brighter, making them the clear winner when it comes to quality lighting.

SWITCH YOUR SETTINGS

It may seem simple, but changing your washing machine settings can make a real difference to your energy use. Wait until you have a full load and switch your dial to cold wash. Not only does it extend the lifespan of your clothing, it saves an enormous amount of energy when the machine doesn’t have to work harder to heat the water.

ENCOURAGING AIR FLOW

Does the temperature in the room not match the thermostat? You’re probably blocking the ventilation. Make sure you don’t put furniture or other items too close to the air registers, that way the air can circulate more freely throughout your home. If it’s too humid or too nippy, a blocked air vent could invite mold or mildew in and around your vent and air ducts.

SWITCH IT OFF

Unplugging your devices when they’re not in use is another handy tip. Whether it’s a charger or appliance, switch it off at the wall when you’re done with it or heading out for the day. Phantom energy is a thing – it’s the electricity that devices and appliances pull from the outlet while plugged in, even when the device is off.

KEEP IT COSY

Don’t forget to make use of your blinds and curtains –  you’ll be surprised at how much heat they retain just by keeping them pulled on those colder days.

STILL UNSURE?

If you’re looking for some extra tools of the trade when it comes to planet and pocket preservation, contact the team at Awarua Synergy for more information.

Can’t quite put your finger on what’s bringing the chill and damp inside?

Whether it’s your first home or a 30 year investment, there are plenty of simple tips and tricks to keeping your home healthy –  especially during those chilly Southland months. From opening windows to making use of your household fans, it doesn’t take a lot to prevent the mould and cold from making its way inside.

AIR VENTILATION 

One of the easiest and most effective things you can do is open your doors and windows for at least 10 minutes each day. When we lock up too often, it gives moisture the perfect opportunity to sneak its way in –  that’s why regularly keeping the house ventilated for a little amount of time is so important. While it may be hard to believe, the best time to do this is actually when your house is warm. Doing so when it’s cold does still work, however warm air carries moisture out of the room more effectively. Leaving cupboards slightly open can also help with keeping mould off your clothes and linen, as can using extractor fans in your kitchen and bathroom when they’re in use.

AVOIDING THE DAMP

Don’t dry your washing inside. We know, during the wet weather it can be hard to avoid but it’s another really effective way to avoid dampness. Drying clothes and towels inside creates  a breeding ground for mould, dust mites and other organisms which would like nothing more than to make the moisture in your home their home. While it may feel like a better option than constantly running your dryer or taking the time to hang it on the line, the health benefits for your family and your home are worth giving it up for.

HEALTHY HEATING

Unflued gas heaters are an infamous source of moisture and condensation. Because they have no flue or chimney to carry the combustion products outside or away, not only do the toxic fumes contribute to a range of health problems, the mould they produce can make for one very sick home dweller. Invest in a cleaner heating appliance such as a flued gas heater, heat pump central heating or an electric heater to keep that air circulating.

Having proper insulation in your home means it’ll help keep the house to the desired temperature all year round, and you’ll be protected from excess cold in winter or too much heat in the summer months.

STILL UNSURE?

If you’ve had a read of the tips and tricks and you’re still not sure what to  do, contact the team at Awarua Synergy today to book in a complimentary healthy homes assessment with one of our expert staff.