In the majority of UK households more than half the money spent on fuel bills goes towards providing both heating and hot water so it’s important to understand what you’re using – and how!

If you have a central heating system then you should ensure that your boiler only provides heat when you need it – and always be sure to have the most efficient model possible. You’d be surprised at what a difference it makes!

If you use electric storage heating then be sure to fit thermostats to make your existing more energy efficient or, better still, replace your system with an efficient boiler system.

If you rely on secondary heating, such as portable heaters or fixed gas fires, be sure to use them only when required. This type of electricity usage is not only expensive but is also carbon-intensive.

Make sure you understand energy ratings on appliances such as your fridge freezer. For example, an A rated 180 litre fridge freezer could cost around £39 a year to run, whereas a much larger 525 litre version with a better A+ rating could cost £52.