Get ready for winter with energy saving advice

As we move towards the winter months, keeping warm in your home becomes more of an issue as the dark, cold nights set in. However, heating your home doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, and with these top tips, you can keep cosy without breaking the bank

Check all your insulation, from windows to walls, ceiling to under floors. It is one of the most cost effective ways to stop the cold creeping through the house. Make sure your pipes and boilers are properly lagged too. Something as simple as pipe foam wraps can be picked up for just a few pounds – but always put them on when the pipes are cool to make sure you don’t burn yourself.

Maintenance of heating equipment is important, so make sure all water-fed radiators are bled and working correctly. A working radiator should be warm evenly across the panel; if it isn’t, there could be air trapped inside.

Once these are all done, you can look at your home’s overall heating requirements:

• Is your boiler fired the most efficient way possible?

• Can you turn the thermostat down a degree or two?

• Are you buying your electricity, oil or bottled gas from the cheapest source?

These things are relatively simple to check online with tools to help you estimate your costs and potential savings with alternative heating sources. The right heating source can vary depending on how you use your home. If you spend all day in the house, consider the cheapest for prolonged use – other systems that provide instant heat may be more suitable to those out working all day.

Think too about future cost – woodfuelled heating systems burn wood, pellets, chips or logs and can also power central heating and hot water. Heat pumps and solar panels can not only save you cash, but government funded feeding tariffs can make some options earn money for you. Alternatively, speak to your energy suppliers and make sure you are on the best rate or tariff. If not, find out what is the cheaper option or

consider switching supplier. These few simple steps will ensure you have a cosy and comfortable house to see out the winter months.