How certain energy-saving measures in Norway could end up costing you more
Energy prices in Norway are at an all-time high. While most of us actively seek out hacks and tricks to save money on electricity, Norwegian experts warn that some savings measures can cost you a small fortune in the long run.
The energy and inflation crises continue to affect the day-to-day lives of people all over Europe – and Norway is no exception.
In order to safeguard personal finances, a lot of Norwegians have resorted to energy-saving tricks and measures.
"It is understandable that people want to save money when it comes to electricity. But we must be careful when it comes to savings measures that can cause damage to homes," damage prevention specialist Therese Hofstad-Nielsen at the Fremtind insurance company says.
Damaging consequences of energy-saving measures
Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) recently reported that many people are considering turning off the ventilation system to save electricity.
Hofstad-Nielsen warns that such a move can have very damaging consequences.
"It's a big risk if you turn off ventilation during the cold season. The ventilation system needs the energy to transport fresh air around the house, and by turning it off, you may get mould and rot in your house, caused by condensation.
"Such indoor conditions with high humidity are a breeding ground for mould and rot," she told The Local, noting that lowering the heating in homes can also be risky.
"You need to maintain a certain level of heating in rooms with water. We strongly advise against lowering the heat so much that your pipes are at risk of freezing," Hofstad-Nielsen notes.
The expert has three pieces of advice when it comes to mitigating risks related to energy-saving measures in Norway this Autumn and Winter:
- keep the heat on in all rooms with water
- do not use appliances while you sleep
- if you have a fireplace, use it correctly. Use dry wood, and keep your chimney clean
Not covered by insurance
Over the past three years, Fremtind has registered approximately 2,400 fungal and rot damage reports at a total cost of close to 30 million kroner.
Damage caused by condensation is not covered by insurance because it is something that occurs over time. The same applies to fungus and rot damage.
"That means you run the risk of being left with covering the entire bill yourself," Hofstad-Nielsen warns, adding that she fears an increase in mould and rot damage reports over the winter as a result of more expensive electricity prices.
"Several of the electricity measures that many people are now considering may have unintended consequences. It can be tempting to save a few kroner, but it can cost you dearly later on," she says.
Years may pass before you discover mould or rot
The damage prevention specialist also warns of the danger associated with flooding, leaks, and other water-related incidents.
"If the water damage is not handled properly, it can mask mould and rot damage. Such damage often goes undetected, hiding behind surfaces, for years," Hofstad-Nielsen says.
As a general rule, she recommends regular home maintenance and inspections. The sooner you discover water damage, mould, or rot, the lower the extent of the damage and the costs.
"If you find mould or fungus, it would be a good idea to call a facility company (sanering). It may be hazardous to the lungs and airways. If you have home-owner insurance, contact your insurance company," Hofstad-Nielsen told The Local.
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The energy and inflation crises continue to affect the day-to-day lives of people all over Europe – and Norway is no exception.
In order to safeguard personal finances, a lot of Norwegians have resorted to energy-saving tricks and measures.
"It is understandable that people want to save money when it comes to electricity. But we must be careful when it comes to savings measures that can cause damage to homes," damage prevention specialist Therese Hofstad-Nielsen at the Fremtind insurance company says.
Damaging consequences of energy-saving measures
Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) recently reported that many people are considering turning off the ventilation system to save electricity.
Hofstad-Nielsen warns that such a move can have very damaging consequences.
"It's a big risk if you turn off ventilation during the cold season. The ventilation system needs the energy to transport fresh air around the house, and by turning it off, you may get mould and rot in your house, caused by condensation.
"Such indoor conditions with high humidity are a breeding ground for mould and rot," she told The Local, noting that lowering the heating in homes can also be risky.
"You need to maintain a certain level of heating in rooms with water. We strongly advise against lowering the heat so much that your pipes are at risk of freezing," Hofstad-Nielsen notes.
The expert has three pieces of advice when it comes to mitigating risks related to energy-saving measures in Norway this Autumn and Winter:
- keep the heat on in all rooms with water
- do not use appliances while you sleep
- if you have a fireplace, use it correctly. Use dry wood, and keep your chimney clean
Not covered by insurance
Over the past three years, Fremtind has registered approximately 2,400 fungal and rot damage reports at a total cost of close to 30 million kroner.
Damage caused by condensation is not covered by insurance because it is something that occurs over time. The same applies to fungus and rot damage.
"That means you run the risk of being left with covering the entire bill yourself," Hofstad-Nielsen warns, adding that she fears an increase in mould and rot damage reports over the winter as a result of more expensive electricity prices.
"Several of the electricity measures that many people are now considering may have unintended consequences. It can be tempting to save a few kroner, but it can cost you dearly later on," she says.
Years may pass before you discover mould or rot
The damage prevention specialist also warns of the danger associated with flooding, leaks, and other water-related incidents.
"If the water damage is not handled properly, it can mask mould and rot damage. Such damage often goes undetected, hiding behind surfaces, for years," Hofstad-Nielsen says.
As a general rule, she recommends regular home maintenance and inspections. The sooner you discover water damage, mould, or rot, the lower the extent of the damage and the costs.
"If you find mould or fungus, it would be a good idea to call a facility company (sanering). It may be hazardous to the lungs and airways. If you have home-owner insurance, contact your insurance company," Hofstad-Nielsen told The Local.
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