Heating
- search your boiler make on Google or YouTube and learn how to use all the settings to make the most efficient use of it, including timers and thermostats. Set it to come on 30 minutes before you wake up to get up in a warm house, set it to go off 30 minutes before bed
- even though the above is the cheapest method to heat a property is creates the perfect environment for mould. Ideally two temperatures are selected - one for when occupants are present and one whilst away - the intension is to heat the structure not the walls
- turn the thermostat down by 1 degree every couple of days until you find the temperature that suits your family. Even 1 degree less can save you about £80 a year. The elderly will suffer health effects once the temperature is below 18C
- a thicker duvet or extra blanket is cheaper than having the heating on all night
- upgrade - heating controls to a digital thermostat or smart thermostat such as HIVE, Nest or TRV and use a smart meter to monitor usage
- boiler advice is available from the Energy Savings Trust on replacing an old system boiler to a modern condensing combination boiler