Posted on 30 01 2024
The Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant is a smart initiative by the New Zealand government aimed at making homes warmer and drier. If you're eligible, you could get a significant chunk of the insulation costs covered!
Now, you might be wondering, "Why the fuss about insulation?" Well, insulation is more than just about keeping your home warm; it’s about creating a healthier living space for you and your family. There are some surprising health benefits for those who used the grant, all backed by recent research.
Insights from the Warmer Kiwi Homes Research
The research paper we're discussing is an in-depth evaluation of the Warmer Kiwi Homes Programme. The study involves two cohorts of Warmer Kiwi Homes (WKH) participants—one from 2021 with 127 participants and another from 2022 with 37 participants. It's notable that 85 participants from the 2021 cohort stayed on for the 2022 study. The research covers three specific evaluation periods: winter 2021, summer 2022, and winter 2022. This comprehensive timeline allows for analysis of heat pump use across different seasons.
The study isn’t confined to one location either; it covers all three climate areas as defined by Standards New Zealand. This means households from Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, and Christchurch were included, providing a diverse set of house types and households for the evaluation.
Key Findings
The research specifically mentions the positive impacts on personal comfort and well-being, backing up what many of us have felt but couldn’t quantify. The research even calculates health and energy ratios to prove the cost-effectiveness of insulation in terms of health benefits.
The Direct Health Benefits : Improved Indoor Air Quality
The research points out that proper insulation can actually reduce indoor allergens. Less sneezing, less discomfort—sounds like a win-win to me. You're also less likely to have respiratory problems in a well-insulated home. The research shows that cleaner air leads to healthier lungs.
Thermal Comfort and Well-being
According to the study, thermal comfort is not just a luxury; it's a health necessity. Proper insulation helps maintain this comfort effortlessly. The research also touches on the positive effects of thermal comfort on mental well-being. A warmer home can actually make you feel happier and more relaxed.
In a nutshell, insulating your home through the Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant is not just about saving money; it’s about investing in your health. So, what are you waiting for? Call the team at GreenSide today 0800 789 276 and start the process
Additional Resources