Cutting down on energy bills

Let's admit it: saving money on your fuel bills really isn't the most riveting topic.

In all likelihood, it's never been top of your list of priorities, and you've probably never even considered the ways in which you could save your well-earned (ahem, borrowed) pennies.

But with fuel poverty hitting the nation with a giant frosty fist as we head into winter, it might just be a good idea to start thinking about alternatives to the 'pile on the jumpers and don't turn the heating on' technique.

Furniture fitting

Now, you might wonder what furniture has got to do with energy saving.

Well - see that giant table in front of the radiator? How about the position of your bed right next to one?

Big objects block heat - radiators need space to radiate heat - I'm sure you can figure out the rest.

If you're feeling crafty, wrap tinfoil around some cardboard and slot behind the radiators to reflect the heat back into the room.

While we're on household tips, make sure your curtains are thick and long enough to cover the windows - otherwise all that lovely heat will be slipping straight outside...

The best deal

It's really easy to find out how much cheaper you could get your energy for these days, and it's easy to switch.

Try out websites such as uswitch.com and theenergyshop.com to get the best deal. You could save a small fortune.

If you're feeling crafty, wrap tinfoil around some cardboard and slot behind the radiators to reflect the heat back into the room

Aimee Steen

Go green

Saving energy to save the planet is also saving you pounds. Easy.

Turning off light bulbs, switching off appliances; simple stuff can all make a big difference if you and your housemates make a collective effort.

Check out this article for more top tips on saving energy around the home.

Readings, not estimates

If you happen to be out when the gas/electricity meter reader person calls round, you'll get an estimate in the post for how much you owe.

So what? I hear you cry. That means if you've spent all winter shivering away and turning off light switches at every possible opportunity, you might as well have not bothered because you're paying for what they think you would have used anyway.

Arrange for a reading at a convenient time, or call up and let them know your actual readings before parting with a single penny.