OHbaby! Forums : Power Bills - What are yours like? https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/ Copyright (c) 2006-2013 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 09 May 2026 12:38:39 +0000 Sat, 30 May 2009 21:56:41 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 12.05 360 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=26756 <![CDATA[OHbaby! Forums]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/ <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Wow I just still cant get over...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697943&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697943 Author: HoneybunsMa
Subject: 26756
Posted: 30 May 2009 at 9:56pm

Wow I just still cant get over that, I think my parents bill with a house of about 8people in it all adults with ps3 sounds systems heaters etc going is $250 a mth. Hmmm ours is quite good, altho I remember it costing less when we lived in our last place but still not complaining. I keep trying to turn the dehumidifier off but dp keeps turning it back on. It is on a timer mind you so not going 24/7 and it is filling up quite quickly with the rain at the mo. Might move it down to the other end of the lounge soon to get that dry for bubs.]]> Sat, 30 May 2009 21:56:41 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697943&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697943 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : With our lowish bill we still...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697870&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697870 Author: SMoody
Subject: 26756
Posted: 30 May 2009 at 7:24pm

With our lowish bill we still dont switch stuff at the wall. Grant has his pc running 24/7 as it is a server as well. TV is on most of the time we are here, even if it is just playing music. Grant has very long showers and I dont skimp on hot water when I have a bath. (I have quick showers though) And our washing is done in cold water.]]> Sat, 30 May 2009 19:24:43 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697870&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697870 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : I def think power is more expensive...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697679&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697679 Author: Peanut
Subject: 26756
Posted: 30 May 2009 at 11:54am

I def think power is more expensive in the South Island as there isn't as many power companies to select from so they can charge whatever.

Also most in the SI don't have gas or water rates so don't have that extra cost on top.

Christchurch is soooo cold at the mo that there is no way running the heatpump at 20 would keep the house at that level even with all curtains etc shut!]]> Sat, 30 May 2009 11:54:46 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697679&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697679 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Got our latest bill, 191, about...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697534&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697534 Author: FreeSpirit
Subject: 26756
Posted: 29 May 2009 at 8:52pm

Got our latest bill, 191, about what I was expecting. We have 3 adults, one baby, no dryer, no dishwasher, no heat pump. Cold wash all laundry, gas heat the lounge but I do run an oil fin heater on low in E's room. We close curtains and doors, and have decided to put new thermal curtains upstairs in the next few weeks. The price increase has hit us hard!]]> Fri, 29 May 2009 20:52:06 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697534&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697534 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is around $40-$60 in the...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697524&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697524 Author: LittleBug
Subject: 26756
Posted: 29 May 2009 at 8:32pm

Ours is around $40-$60 in the summer.

In the winter it's usually around $300 That extra power usage is the heat pump (which we leave running on 18 at night in the lounge, and we open the door to the babies' room - it gets FREEZING here in winter - and up to 20 during the day (we get barely any sun even on a sunny day and it's always cold down here)), and the drier (the only way we can get things dry, even though we have things drying on racks all through the house) and running baths for the babies. Also run dishwasher once a day.

We use cold washes for washing machine, close all extra doors and curtains, etc. but our house isn't insulated been bugging the landlord about insulating the place, but they can't afford it at the moment.]]> Fri, 29 May 2009 20:32:35 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=697524&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#697524 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Geez those are some big bills!...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=696227&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#696227 Author: Shezamumof3
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 8:13pm

Geez those are some big bills! My mum and dad paid less than $250 a month and that was 8 people in the house. My dad is VERY strict about power lol so I have that drilled into my head!

We havent got our first power bill yet, but if its over $120 I'll keel over!! We are hoping to keep them to about $80 a month if we can.
We dont use a dryer, or electric heating(except in cadens room and it gets turned on for 5 mins and only if its really cold, it never gets left on longer than 5 mins), I always use the cold wash on the washing machine, and try and only use the dishwasher once a day, unless there are a lot of dishes. We dont use the heated towel rail, if i want a warm towel Il chuck one over the hot water cylinder.

We are with Mercury, so what Im going to do is pay a certain amount each week, so we are always "hopefully" in credit.]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 20:13:56 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=696227&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#696227 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Holy moly I can&#039;t believe...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695961&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695961 Author: Nutella
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 2:16pm

Holy moly I can't believe how expensive some of the bills are and I also can't believe how warm some of you heat the house. Babies should be sleeping in 18-20degree rooms not 25degrees!

Try putting on jerseys and wrapping in blankets would be my suggestion lol!

Oh and start turning things off at the wall too! I also always shut curtains as soon as the sun goes down to keep any warmth in (sometimes the sun might be up still).]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 14:16:01 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695961&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695961 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : I don&#039;t know how much my...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695909&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695909 Author: mamanee
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 1:10pm

I don't know how much my power bill is, I hardly ever read it and it says 'No action required'

I'm with Genesis energy, I pay using evenpay and have an automatic payment of $35 a week come out every week, which saves me from getting a huge bill and evens itself out over the year.   At the end of the year if you are in credit, they send you a cheque for the amount you've overpaid.

I couldn't go back to having a bill.   I think last time I looked mine was about $120ish for the month, just myself and Sam.   

Last year living with my mum in a rental house, it had this really old central heating unit. Only after a few months did we find out that A) it was faulty, leaking gas and could have exploded at any minute, B) Our gas bill was over $800 for one month!   The landlord refused to take responsibility though, he said if the bill was so high, we shouldn't use it so much.    ]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 13:10:42 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695909&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695909 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Our power bills have been around...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695856&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695856 Author: minik8e
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 12:15pm

Our power bills have been around $120 in winter, and $80 in summer so far. That's with 2 adults working full-time so not home during the day. We don't have a dishwasher or heat pump (we use a portable gas heater for heating at the moment), have no insulation and no thermal backed curtains.

BUT we're hoping it won't go up too much once our renovations are done, which include a heatpump, nightstore heater, insulation in 95% of the walls and the ceiling, industrial underlay under the new carpet (we can't put in underfloor insulation), thermal backed curtains and a dishwasher.]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 12:15:06 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695856&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695856 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Hannahbil its easy as to swap...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695817&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695817 Author: Babe
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 11:29am

Hannahbil its easy as to swap power companies and there usually isn't a bond fee though it does depend on who you go with I guess. You just ring the company you want to change too and they sort it out. Have one of your bills handy for the uhm icp? number and they'll organise it for you. Takes about 6 weeks I think for you to get your first bill so I recommend putting abit of money aside for it.]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 11:29:10 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695817&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695817 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours are usually around $150 in...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695706&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695706 Author: clover
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 9:18am

Ours are usually around $150 in summer but the one we just got was $250.


]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 09:18:19 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695706&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695706 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Is it easy to switch power companies?...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695695&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695695 Author: Mum_mum
Subject: 26756
Posted: 27 May 2009 at 9:06am

Is it easy to switch power companies? I jsut had a look on consumer.org and it looks like we are on the highest paying plan with Empower and if we swapped to Mercury we could save nearly $200 a year Do you have to pay a set up fee or...?

Our bills are usaully around $160-$170 with the prompt payement discount during winter. We have a fire which we use every night but we also use the dryer a fair bit as well as the dehumidifer which runs constantly in winter

edited cos im a retard and we would only save $200 not $2000!

Edited by Hannahbil]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 09:06:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695695&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695695 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Wow I&#039;m conscious of power...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695542&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695542 Author: HoneybunsMa
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 9:38pm

Wow I'm conscious of power bills and running costs of things. Our bill during the summer is normally $80-$90 during winter I think it got up to $160 and I almost cried. Our bill was really high for awhile not sure why, but I did all the calculations online and found that they were all almost the same amount in the end run.

We have heaps of technology here too and I try to turn things off at the wall as much as possible, have even started making sure that the washing machine is turned off at the wall recently. It will probably go up quite abit when bubs is here but we will deal with that.

I don't use hot water washes, we only have a shower no dishwasher try not to use the dryer as its expensive if used at all its only for about 10mins to get the last dampness out of the clothes. We do have a cheaper model lcd screen tv which apparently if left on at the wall can use about $20 more electricity then good reputable brands etc but since the plug is behind the wall it doesn't get turned off and dp is annoying and won't follow the rules of unplugging the stereo etc

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 21:38:14 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695542&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695542 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Wow I&#039;m conscious of power...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695529&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695529 Author: HoneybunsMa
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 9:29pm

Wow I'm conscious of power bills and running costs of things. Our bill during the summer is normally $80-$90 during winter I think it got up to $160 and I almost cried. Our bill was really high for awhile not sure why, but I did all the calculations online and found that they were all almost the same amount in the end run.

We have heaps of technology here too and I try to turn things off at the wall as much as possible, have even started making sure that the washing machine is turned off at the wall recently. It will probably go up quite abit when bubs is here but we will deal with that.

I don't use hot water washes, we only have a shower no dishwasher try not to use the dryer as its expensive if used at all its only for about 10mins to get the last dampness out of the clothes. We do have a cheaper model lcd screen tv which apparently if left on at the wall can use about $20 more electricity then good reputable brands etc but since the plug is behind the wall it doesn't get turned off and dp is annoying and won't follow the rules of unplugging the stereo etc

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 21:29:24 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695529&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695529 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : We had a $650 bill for one month...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695422&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695422 Author: Snappy
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 8:09pm

We had a $650 bill for one month last winter
We just had the April/May bill and that was $280
It hasnt even been that cold and we use the fire.

Admittedly the TV is on all the time, Plasma's are 16c p/hr to run. Thats about $15 a week just on telly watching!!!!
I do run the drier for about an hour every day. DH also has half hour long showers and even keeps it running on his back while he dries his front ]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 20:09:41 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695422&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695422 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours was around $250 (on a bad...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695395&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695395 Author: scribe
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 7:48pm

Ours was around $250 (on a bad month), but we've just started buying our electricity from Powershop and that looks as though it'll be a big saving eg. we bought units for $22 each instead of $29 through Contact.

We have central heating going at 19 degrees year round (we live in Wellington), and we don't get a lot of sun at this time of year. If we don't run central heating the place gets really damp (we live in a bit of a valley) and I'd rather pay a large power bill than risk our health!

Our hot water is very efficient - we got a new Infinity gas hot water unit last year. But I do at least one load of washing a day (cloth nappies) and at this time of year - note the aforementioned lack of sun - it is impossible to dry clothes completely, outside.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 19:48:27 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695395&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695395 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is around $160 in winter...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695388&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695388 Author: Bobbie
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 7:43pm

Ours is around $160 in winter but our house gets a lot of sun and so it kind of self warms. We only need heaters on days like today where the sun can't get through the cloud.

In summer it ranges between $110 and $130.

We'll have to see in the new place if we manage to do as well as I don't think it gets as much sun.

This is with Mercury.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 19:43:15 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695388&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695388 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Some of the costs on here are...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695371&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695371 Author: busymum
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 7:32pm

Some of the costs on here are shocking! Ours is around $140-$160/m with Contact, and that's with gas (hot water) and electricity. We are on a low user rate (make sure you are on the right rate with them - if you aren't sure you can just ring and ask them). Things that help keep our power costs down are:
Turning the HWC to just below "normal"
Not using dishwasher, dryer (we have clothes lines under our eaves), heated towel rails or any electric heating
Use just one computer (used to be two) and turn it off overnight
Turn off TV, microwave at wall overnight

We live in a sunny, two-storey home so most of our heating is natural. I'm surprised at the temperatures some of you guys keep in your homes though - in the 20's in winter! - I don't mind it being a bit cooler in winter and putting on soup/casseroles and an extra layer or so on the kids.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 19:32:09 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695371&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695371 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Just rang thru our reading today...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695304&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695304 Author: hannibal
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 6:42pm

Just rang thru our reading today - $234.   On top of this we buy gas for heating. We run the dishwasher on average once a week, cold washing washes, bubs is in our room and sometime we put the oil heater on to warm the room - I don't find this very efficient to heat our room at all, we have just put in an Ecoheat for her room (we when move her in there soon), on the odd occassion we run the heatpump. The biggest uses in our house are the dryer and showers/bathes (I love my shower x2 per day - naughty). I find the cost of paying of power more in the SI than the NI (I am a North Islander but we moved South 3 years ago). Having an older house, high ceiling, single glazed windows certainly doesn't help - the joys!]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 18:42:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695304&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695304 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : We just got ours - $184 It&#039;s...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695296&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695296 Author: fire_engine
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 6:36pm

We just got ours - $184 It's never been that high. Off to powerswitch for me.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 18:36:53 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695296&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695296 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Yea it is a bit more of a pain...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695251&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695251 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 5:41pm

Yea it is a bit more of a pain to ring it in but theyre anything like Genesis you can call it no matter what time of day coz its an automated phone system which helps because u dont have to try and find the time during business hours.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 17:41:04 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695251&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695251 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Yeah, I should do the same, except...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695245&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695245 Author: Gardengirl
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 5:37pm

Yeah, I should do the same, except they say I'd need to phone it in - not sure if I'm organised enough.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 17:37:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695245&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695245 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : We are with genesis and i read...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695239&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695239 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 5:33pm

We are with genesis and i read our meter every month i have an online account thingee with them and i can just enter my meter readings into there and it spits a bill out pretty much instantly really handy and reading your own meters is so easy to do. ]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 17:33:09 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695239&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695239 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is around $120 per month...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695233&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695233 Author: Gardengirl
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 5:29pm

Ours is around $120 per month - that's with us both out at work though, log burner heats the whole house - we use the ceiling fan to push the heat around and the house is well insulated - and is a wet back so heats the water when it's going. Wash in cold water and hardly ever use the dryer, dishwasher only on every other day or so. Will be interesting to see how bill goes when baby arrives. Also our new kitchen means we're using the oven and ceramic hob more than we were.

We're with Meridian, becasue I thought they read the meters every month, but it turns out they estimate every other month. We used to be with Mercury in Auckland pourely because they did read the meter monthly - I hate estimated bills.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 17:29:22 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695233&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695233 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : we got ours a few days ago it...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695125&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695125 Author: chonni
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 3:43pm

we got ours a few days ago it was ^$65 we have a heat pump and was told it uses less power if you keep it on all the time we leave it on 17 18 degrees over night and around 20 in the day]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 15:43:18 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695125&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695125 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : last bill was $120. stay in an...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695117&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695117 Author: Niecey
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 3:27pm

last bill was $120. stay in an apt and use our tiny washer for 2 loads a week (rest done at laundromat). use the dishwasher 2x week. stay at home with my baby at the mo. guessing it'll be a lot more next month from the heater being on for 2 hrs at night.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 15:27:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695117&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695117 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : We&#039;ve just discovered that...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695082&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695082 Author: Babe
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 2:45pm

We've just discovered that our hot water cylinder thermostat is bust and theres a leak so our bills have been close to $300 a month which is ridiculous considering we're usually round the $70 mark at most! We don't have a dryer, use cold washes, have a firebox, use hotwater bottles not electric blankets and turn everything off at the wall.

Its so gutting to have such a huge amount to pay off since its been high for the last 5 months but they can't get in to read the meter unless we're here so it was estimated and we didn't realise there was a problem til the last bill which was a proper reading.

We're ripping out the cylinder and putting in an lpg rinnai system and when we put in the new kitchen the oven and hobs will be hooked into the lpg bottle too. DP is also thinking he'll switch all the lights to LED solar battery powered. That'll all def help the power bill! We close our curtains by 5 in the winter and we're going round sealing all our windows which are wooden and have gaps that blow the curtains around aaah the joys of owning your own home...]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 14:45:01 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695082&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695082 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : My bugbear is that we pay more...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695044&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695044 Author: peanut butter
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 2:02pm

My bugbear is that we pay more for fuel (ie petrol) down here because of the cost to transport it yet our power bills are the same or higher than the rest of the country and the clyde dam is on our back doorstep ]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 14:02:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695044&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695044 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : ours are pushing up round the...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695041&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695041 Author: peanut butter
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 1:56pm

ours are pushing up round the $200 mark at the moment and we have gas cooking and heating too ($100 a month)..oh yay!

I have been meaning to turn our heat pump down at night as I dont think I need it on 23 over night. I dont want to turn it off completely as we arent using any other heating in the bedrooms and I am pleased at that. Heat pump is way more efficient than oil heaters.

The way I imagine would be cheaper is to turn your heatpump down a bit (ie maybe run it at 22) then turn to 18 at night and back up in the morning. Make sure you open up all the curtains during the day to let max light in and close them as soon as the sun starts to go to keep the warmth in. Make sure your drapes are thermal backed. close off any rooms you dont use and put something down to stop draughts. Maybe use a hottie to heat the bed rather than an electric blanket..and then snuggle to DH/F/P.

just some thoughts.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 13:56:02 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695041&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695041 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : kebakat wrote:Babies actually...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695022&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695022 Author: BaAsKa
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 1:43pm

Originally posted by kebakat kebakat wrote:

Babies actually take a bit of power. It's not just the extra washing loads. It's extra dishes (if you have a dishwasher). Heaters in their room if its needed. Heating the house all day because you are home all day. All the power you will personally use while you are at home for the tv, microwave, oven for lunch etc. Ours went up by about $30-40 a month once I was at home full time from memory


so true!!! ours use to be $70 a month pre kids!]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 13:43:01 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695022&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695022 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : I agree having a baby jumps the...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695020&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695020 Author: FionaO
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 1:42pm

I agree having a baby jumps the power bill up a bit, simple things like the first few months, everything is sterilised which can mean boiling lots of water, the kettle always seems to be going, tv is on a lot more, we are trying to keep the house warmer etc etc.... you'd be surprised.

Hey we just got a heatpump installed, its a daikin model and we have it through ducting throughout the house.

Is it cheaper to have it on all the time rather than switch on/off and also what setting do you have it on, I am finding the manual totally useless.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 13:42:19 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695020&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695020 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Babies actually take a bit of...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695009&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695009 Author: kebakat
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 1:30pm

Babies actually take a bit of power. It's not just the extra washing loads. It's extra dishes (if you have a dishwasher). Heaters in their room if its needed. Heating the house all day because you are home all day. All the power you will personally use while you are at home for the tv, microwave, oven for lunch etc. Ours went up by about $30-40 a month once I was at home full time from memory]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 13:30:37 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695009&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695009 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : We have a front loader so it heats...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695005&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695005 Author: MissCandice
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 1:23pm

We have a front loader so it heats its own water apparently.

I think the rate for power is different per city/town.
That could be why some of you have exceptionally cheap bills..]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 13:23:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695005&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695005 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : ours in summer is about $70 or...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695004&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695004 Author: ohanlon82
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 1:23pm

ours in summer is about $70 or so and winter about $120 - two adults - working full time

run dehumid 24/7 in winter, heater and dryer (but only maybe once a week )

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 13:23:32 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=695004&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#695004 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : WOAH! mines $60-70 per month,...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694974&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694974 Author: M2K
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 12:51pm

WOAH! mines $60-70 per month, at the moment, we have gas cooking and heating, but do use the dryer, Im guessing it will jump up considerably when bubs is born during winter, cos we have to be toasty warm of course ! ]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 12:51:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694974&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694974 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Wow, these are huge bills! Ours...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694973&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694973 Author: T_Rex
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 12:51pm

Wow, these are huge bills! Ours very rarely gets over $120, and mostly sits at just under $100. That is for 2 adults who aren't home during weekdays, but we have a dishwasher and dryer (i only use it when I have to which is hardly ever). We do cold laundry washes and the dishwasher heats its own water. But we also run 2 water pumps (one for the house and one for the troughs) and the electric fences. We have a fire for heating though, which keeps the place really warm and I dry most of my laundry by it in winter.
I'm a bit nervous what adding a baby is going to increase it by... surely just a few more loads of washing?

I think the website was powerswitch.org.nz?]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 12:51:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694973&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694973 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours varies but generally never...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694963&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694963 Author: BaAsKa
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 12:40pm

Ours varies but generally never goes over $160ish, usually around $130ish.

Im home pretty much all day everyday, we have washing mahine going most of day and dishwasher 1 -2 times a day. We set column heater to go on at 4am (DH gets up at 6am) and its turns itself off at 8am (just before i get up) and then i turn on the little fan heater. that makes the house super toast (fully insulated home with thermal curtains and blinds and almost always in sun. I usually have tv (plasma which aparently uses more power than normal) going all day and laptop plugged in plus fridge, chest freezer, alarm clocks, dvd, sky etc. Also DH is ALWAYS using some kind of power tool or welder several times a week!! (we notice a change in bill when he uses welder alot!).

We are with bay of plenty energy.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 12:40:29 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694963&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694963 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : We have the heatpump on all night...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694961&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694961 Author: MissCandice
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 12:34pm

We have the heatpump on all night at 25 degrees. Its on auto so the fan goes when it needs too.

Im thinking we are going to have to stop running it all night and have it turn on automatically at 6am and just dress Kylah warmer at night and put another blanket on her bed.

Im with meridian, i just rang Mercury and switched,

Meridians Standard rate is

21.47c KW
65.80c Daily line charge
00.16c Levy Charge

All GST inclusive.

Mercury is

16.82c KW
85.87 Daily Line Charge
Levy is included

But GST Exclusive

Mercury works out cheaper for us. So done the switch (Thanks Vanessa) But its going to take 6 weeks for the switch to happen..

Edited by Kandice]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 12:34:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694961&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694961 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Our last bill was about $25.00...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694949&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694949 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 12:22pm

Our last bill was about $25.00 with prompt payment discount but that was only for a week, so i guess about $100 for a month (oh and that includes gas which we have for hot water and cooking)]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 12:22:24 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694949&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694949 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : $150 for two people last bill,...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694937&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694937 Author: GuestGuest
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 12:09pm

$150 for two people last bill, both working full time so not home during the week. Underfloor heating in the bathroom on high all day and two convection heaters for heating. Dishwasher but no dryer.
Our bill got up to $300 at its max last winter.

I have heard that the best way to run a heat pump is to keep it on constantly, turning it down to 12 degrees over night.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 12:09:30 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694937&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694937 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : our last one was $200. I thought...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694922&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694922 Author: lizzle
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:55am

our last one was $200. I thought that was pretty good. we have gas so pay for that as well. Wonder what our new house will bring?]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:55:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694922&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694922 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : I am dreading mine, we have our...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694917&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694917 Author: CuriousG
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:48am

I am dreading mine, we have our heat pump on all night and until about 8.30am each morning at about 20-23 degrees.

We do find that we close all the doors to the rooms that we don't use including the bathroom etc. Plus the curtains and blinds are all drawn when we get home. I am one for having windows open slightly to get fresh air in but have shut them all recently because its just too darn cold.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:48:53 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694917&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694917 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : I am dreading mine, we have our...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694914&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694914 Author: CuriousG
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:46am

I am dreading mine, we have our heat pump on all night and until about 8.30am each morning at about 20-23 degrees.

We do find that we close all the doors to the rooms that we don't use including the bathroom etc. Plus the curtains and blinds are all drawn when we get home. I am one for having windows open slightly to get fresh air in but have shut them all recently because its just too darn cold.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:46:54 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694914&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694914 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Umm, I live in Southland and we...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694899&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694899 Author: shadowfeet
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:37am

Umm, I live in Southland and we only have Contact. Makes it really easy to choose

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:37:03 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694899&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694899 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is between 120 and 150. Summer...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694898&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694898 Author: SMoody
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:35am

Ours is between 120 and 150. Summer and winter depended. We dont have a dishwasher. No heating source as such unless we put the oilfin heater on. I dont use the tumbledryer in summer. But if I do in winter it goes up. No heated towel rails.

I think this winter it will go up as we will run a heater most of the time for Andrew. ]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:35:13 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694898&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694898 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : How did you all decide which power...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694897&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694897 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:34am

How did you all decide which power company to go with? And do they all have diff policies as to how you can pay/juggle your accounts?

Kandice, maybe you should try that site that a few people recommended on here ages back, it compares power companies and helps you decide which one you are more suited to and will be cheaper. I have no clue what the site was though, someone will hopefully read this and be able to give a link?]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:34:50 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694897&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694897 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours was $130 a month with just...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694896&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694896 Author: shadowfeet
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:34am

Ours was $130 a month with just 2 of us and me home a lot. That included the dryer which drys all washing. We have a lot of technology, and not a lot of heating.

When my brother moved in the bill jumped to $180 a month.

We have yet to see what the bill will be from our new house, with a heater, heat pump, dryer as well as technology (many computers) and very hot water.

We need to turn the hot water down to conserve a bit more power, though I'm not liking the thought of our next power bill.

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:34:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694896&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694896 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : I don&#039;t even look at mine...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694891&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694891 Author: MrsMojo
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:26am

I don't even look at mine  we just pay $145 a fortnight all year and once a year it's reviewed and any credit is paid back to us (if there was any shortfall we'd pay it then too).  Last year we got $300 back and the year before we were in credit by about $800 (but that was because I made the mistake of looking at one of my winter bills, freaked out and paid the full amount which shoved us way over in credit).]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:26:56 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694891&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694891 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : ours is usually $180-220 which...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694886&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694886 Author: jack_&_charli
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:21am

ours is usually $180-220 which is with the prompt payment discount. we are with contact energy but have just changed last night to mercury energy. they rung us up and offered cheaper rates locked until 2010. we'll be saving $30-40/mth. might pay to give them a call kandice (if you aren't with them already)

our heatpump is in the dining/lounge area which is all open plan. i have the hall door open during the day to get as much heat up into the bdrms, lately on 25/26. then when the kids go to bed i shut the door and when we go to bed i turn it down to 20 and keep the door shut.

we've found the best way to run the heatpump is to never turn it off! just adjust the temp to what suits your needs and run it on thermostat

we run our dishwasher and dryer late at night to use the cheaper rate.

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:21:56 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694886&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694886 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Holy schmoly!!! Although there&#039;s...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694884&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694884 Author: MrsH
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:20am

Holy schmoly!!! Although there's only two of us, we grumble if our power bill gets over $120 p/m. Admittedly, we're not home during the day (which has recently changed) and we don't have a heat pump but surely, an extra person + a heat pump is not going to bump it up by $160 p/m? Is it?

Because I haven't budgeted for that!!]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:20:55 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694884&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694884 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is $100-120 a month. 2 of...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694882&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694882 Author: Npegmont
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:20am

Ours is $100-120 a month. 2 of us.
(no gas on top of this either)
Woodfire, no dishwasher, washing machine warm washes and not trying to conserve either.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:20:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694882&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694882 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : OMG wow, not looking forward to...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694881&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694881 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:19am

OMG wow, not looking forward to our first power bill judging by some of the amounts mentioned above!

I'm doing away with a landline phone and internet until I have our budget fully sorted.

What kind of heater are you using Kandice?]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:19:48 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694881&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694881 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is around $200 a month, with...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694871&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694871 Author: FreeSpirit
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:11am

Ours is around $200 a month, with gas heating.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:11:43 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694871&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694871 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours has been $180 and that&#039;s...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694869&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694869 Author: kebakat
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:10am

Ours has been $180 and that's with a heat pump and a very inefficent hot water cylinder that needs replacing. With the heat pump ours is in the lounge, we shut all the doors so its only heating the lounge, dining and kitchen (as they don't have doors between them) and its usually on most days at 20 degrees. At night at about 5pm I open up the hall, shut all the doors down there except for Daniels so a bit of heat travels down there before he goes to bed. ]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:10:39 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694869&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694869 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : Ours is always around the $250...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694861&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694861 Author: Peanut
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 11:04am

Ours is always around the $250 mark in winter.

We also have a heat pump and was thinking the same thing this morning about the best one to run it so any help on that front would be great.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 11:04:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694861&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694861 <![CDATA[Power Bills - What are yours like? : If you dont mind me asking? I...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694835&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694835 Author: MissCandice
Subject: 26756
Posted: 26 May 2009 at 10:36am

If you dont mind me asking?

I thought ours wouldnt be too bad but they are! $250 for a month..

There are 2 adults one toddler.

We have a heatpump, can anyone advise the most efficient way to run these?

Also any power saving ideas?
It annoys me that power companies have over charged to the tune of $4b and we dont get to see any of it. GRR]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 10:36:33 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=26756&PID=694835&title=power-bills-what-are-yours-like#694835