OK, so it's the time of year when we're al moving into our new house for the new academic year. A few tips for when you first move in.
(1) Ge some foam insulating tape from any hardware store to seal around doors and windows this will keep the daft out and really make a difference in the winter.
(2) Change to low energy light bulbs
(3) If the house is oil-fired central heating it might be worth the £40 to get the boiler serviced and then get a fill of oil as soon as you can before the prices go up in the winter
(4) Have a keypad installed for electricity, it's cheaper and easier to manage. NIE have a a cheaper off-peak tariff that can be applied to the keypad
(5) If you require crockery or cutlery or even some bits and pieces of furniture Second hand shops are the way to go. St. Vincent de Paul and Oxfam usually have great furniture shops, also freecycle can be great.
For back to school essentials such as books which are required reading sometimes it is best to wait until you start back. Several books can be required reading but it may turn out that they are not all as vital.
Ebay is a great option, but most universities will also have a second-hand book shop. Asking in the school office can also be a great place to start as students do like to see on books taht are no longer required
Some universities have signed agreements with major laptop suppliers that will get great discounts, but sometimes it's more economical to buy refurbished electrical goods.
