First steps in the Czech Republic - II. My house is my castle

Released: 9/1/2018

So now that you have a place to call home - let's make sure you keep it nice and running!

Cleaning

There are two ways around it – either you can do it yourself, or you can get a cleaning lady – simply by talking to forStudents and booking one.
If you are not too busy to do it (or if you even find it strangely satisfying, especially in those times when you should rather be studying), then make sure you have all the right supplies and tools – cleaning products, a broom, drying rack, a vacuum cleaner... Mind that the vacuum cleaner is not always provided by the landlord – but don't be afraid to buy one, because someone will be happy to buy it off of you when you're leaving Czech!
Make sure you note down the model of the vacuum cleaner and buy spare bags for it. Bags can be bought easily in large shops like Datart or Electroworld, which are usually located in department stores across Czech. Check if your nearest one has one!


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Small maintenance

In general, it is up to you to change light bulbs in your apartment. If you're not sure which one to get, make sure you take it with you to the shop!
For any bigger maintenance, contact your landlord or forStudents. 
And an energy and lightbulb-saving tip at the end – always turn off the lights before leaving the house! The lightbulbs will last longer.

Energy bills

If you're lucky enough, your energy bills are included in rent – but nothing wrong in learning a bit about them.
Usually, energy bills will include water, gas, and electricity. They are counted annually and split into 12 equal portions which are included in your rent. The total sum is based on real previous consumption in the apartment – so make sure you save energy to avoid having to pay more!
 
Some energy-saving tips:
 
  • Unplug electrical appliances that you don't use often.
  • Get familiar with your thermostat! Lower the temperature when going out. Some thermostats even let you set a timer, ask for help to set it up so that you can turn the heating on before you come back from the uni!
  • Wash clothes at a lower temperature. With the right detergent, 30 or 40 degrees is all you need!
  • Mind the tap. Don't let the water running wild – in the kitchen or in the bathroom.
  • Do NOT keep the heating on with the windows open! Especially with thermostats, the heating only turns off when a certain temperature is reached. An open window lowers the temperature continually – which means the heating keeps running forever!

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