Thermal or heavy blinds and curtains can help trap heat and reduce draughts. Close them at night to reduce heating bills.

Still using tungsten, halogen or fluorescent bulbs? Changing to LED lighting can save energy and money.

Insulate hot water pipes along their full length. Don’t waste the energy you have used to heat your hot water.

Hanging out clothes to dry will save you energy and money over using a tumble drier.

When was the last time you switched energy supplier. Regularly changing to the right tariff can save you money by reducing your energy costs. If you rent a property and pay the energy bills yourself the law says you should be able to choose your own energy supplier.

Make sure your pans fully cover the rings on your hob to use all of the heat being provided. Use the right sized ring for the pan you are heating.

Use a microwave. Generally a microwave oven is the most efficient way to heat up and cook food.

Cavity wall insulation can help prevent heat loss through your walls. Consider getting this retro-fitted if you still have uninsulated walls.

Only fill your kettle with the water you need. You will save both water and energy.

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Every year in the UK it kills around 50 people and sends 4000 to A&E for emergency treatment. Make sure you get all your combustion appliances properly serviced and fit an alarm. Good quality alarms are available from most DIY suppliers and take minutes to fit. It could save your life!