What’s Really Draining Your Power This Season
When winter hits, it's not just the temperature that drops — your bank account can start to feel the chill too, especially when the power bill arrives.
Sure, your heat pump is working hard to keep you cosy, but it might not be the only appliance chewing through your kilowatts. Winter often invites a parade of sneaky power suckers that quietly inflate your electricity costs without you even noticing.
Let’s pull back the curtain on the usual suspects.
Common Winter Power Drainers:
1. Heated Towel Rails Left On 24/7
Yes, there’s nothing like a warm towel after a shower, but leaving the rail on all day and night is a classic power-waster. If yours doesn’t have a timer, consider installing one — it can save you a bundle.
2. Garage Fridges and Freezers
That old second fridge/freezer might be chilling more than just your leftover pav. Cold garages may mean that those older fridges and freezers have to work overtime to maintain temperature. A modern energy-efficient model or ditching it altogether might be the smarter call.
3. Underfloor Heating With No Timer or Thermostat
Luxury? Yes. Efficient? Not always. If it’s running nonstop or without proper zoning or control, it could be silently siphoning power all day. Install timers or smart thermostats for better control.
4. Forgotten Fan Heaters in the Bathroom
They’re small but mighty (in terms of power consumption). Leaving one running after you've long left the bathroom is an easy mistake — and an expensive one.
5. Screens, Consoles, and Charging Stations
More people inside during winter = more tech in use. TVs, gaming consoles, computers, space heaters, and endless phone chargers all add up — especially if they’re running all day or left on standby.
Want to Get Forensic?
If you're serious about cracking the case of your bloated power bill, try a plug-in power meter. These handy devices let you monitor exactly how much electricity each appliance is using in real time.
You'll probably uncover a few energy vampires you never suspected — and once you know what’s sucking the juice, you can start plugging the leaks.
Need a Hand?
Our team at Harkness Electrical can help you identify inefficiencies, install timers, or upgrade to energy-smart systems.
If you're in Hawke's Bay and want a no-fuss check-up, give Trude a call on 06 873 3444 — we might already be working in your area this week.
