The measures below are cheap ways to save energy at home. Check with your local authority as you may qualify for an energy saving grant to help you with any costs. The UK Government supports various energy efficiency schemes with eligibility dependant upon your location. Although you don't need to be on benefits to receive these grants, those who are can receive greater financial assistance with purchase and installation.

# Insulating your loft is one of the most cost effective ways to reduce your heating bills and you can do-it-yourself.

By laying down loft insulation to the recommended thickness of 270mm you could knock up to £200 off your annual heating bill.

# Normal light bulbs cost less than energy efficient bulbs, but they don't really save you money. One energy saving light bulb will cost you more than a normal one, but it will save you around £9 on your annual electric bill and up to £100 over its lifetime. (Lighting accounts for 15% of our electric bills and research by the Dept of Environment has shown that £1 out of every £3 spent on lighting and heating a home is wasted.)

# When you replace your existing appliances, look for products that display the energy saving recommended logo. These products have to meet strict efficiency criteria, don't necessarily cost any more than less efficient models and can save you £50 per year.

# Insulating your hot water tank will reduce heat loss by up to 70% and you can fit them yourself for £10.

It costs you money to heat your water, so to minimise the heat lost from the tank fit a water tank jacket thats at least 75mm thick. It will only cost a few pounds and save £15-£20 per year.

# Stop draughts. A typical home loses 20% of its heat through draughty doors, windows and ventilation ducts.

Fit draught proofing products to your doors, windows and keyholes. You can buy them from DIY stores but check that they comply with standard BS7386 for maximum efficiency and durability.

Because of the current high utility 

prices - Some other quick tips

Turn the thermostat on your hot water immersion tank down to 60c.

This is a comfortable temperature for most people.

Only boil as much water in the kettle as you need.

An ordinary shower uses just two fifths of the water for a bath. In contrast, power showers use as much water as a bath and sometimes more.

Washing machines - only wash full loads or use a half-load or economy programme. Always use a low temperature programme as modern washing powders will be just as effective.

Turning the room thermostat down by just 1C can save around £30 a year.

Turn down room temperature in unused rooms.

Draught-proof gaps in external windows and doors.

Switch off standby on your electical equipment.

Increase insulation in your loft and hot water cyclinder.

Take a 4 minute shower.

Swap one or two baths a week for a shower.

Reduce your dishwasher use where possible.

Wash clothes at 30 degrees.