Saving energy doesn't have to cost the earth. In fact, making just a few small changes can save you a significant amount of money, so you can spend it on the more enjoyable things in life! Here are our top tips... 

1. Cover ‘em up! Insulate external pipes and your boiler tank to reduce heat loss by a staggering 75 per cent!

2. Turn it down – By turning down your thermostat by just 1 degree, you can save 10% of your overall heating bill.

3. Switch off standby – Instead of simply placing your television or computer on standby when you’ve finished using them for the day, switch them off at the wall.

4. Is the weather forecast looking good? Why not hang up your washing, instead of using your tumble dryer? This also provides the perfect excuse for a spot of sunbathing or gardening… you know, because you’ll need to keep an eye on the sky, after all…

5. Having a cuppa? Whether it’s just you or you’re playing host, only boil as much water as you think you need when it comes to hot drinks.

6. Step away from the bath. Where possible, take a shower instead, and you won’t just save on hot water, but you can also have a longer lie-in!

7. Get lofty. 25% of the heat in your home is lost through an uninsulated roof. Loft insulation typically costs around &300, but it could save you approximately &180 on your energy bill each year – meaning this addition would more than pay for itself!

8. Replace your shower head. Install a water efficient head onto your shower, you can purchase this from your local hardware store.

9. Replace your old lightbulbs with energy saving bulbs. Even if you only do this in a few rooms, you’ll see a noticeable difference in your electricity bills.

10. Get your boiler serviced. A boiler that’s not working 100% efficiently is sure to be ramping up the cost of your energy bill. A regular service carried out by a professional can help ensure that your boiler is kept in tip top condition, saving you money in the long term.

11. Let the heating breathe. Ensure that your radiators aren’t obscured by curtains, or being leaned upon by furniture, otherwise this will decrease their efficiency in warming the room.

12. Keep your thermostat clear. Your thermostat will not be able to accurately sense the temperature if it does not have a free flow of air, so ensure it is not being blocked by nearby furniture, fires or lamps, and that it is not within close proximity of considerable draught sources!

13. Quick floorboard fix. Got a draughty floorboard? Place a pretty rug or a mat over it – problem solved!

14. Keep an eye on the clock. Try to cut down the length of your daily shower over time. According to B&Q, spending just 1 minute less in the shower each day can save up to &13 per year in your household gas bills! If a refreshing morning shower is the best part of your day, start off by seeing if you can shave off 30 seconds, and then see if you can cut down the duration further over time.

15. Get crafty with the curtains. Warm up your house by opening up your curtains on a sunny day and closing them on a cold day