Save energy; save money & help save the planet.

-    Get a free energy check from the Energy Saving Trust and save up to £250 a year. Contact them on 0800 512 012 or at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk.

-    Turn your heating thermostat down by 1ºC. It could cut your energy bills, saving you around £40 a year, and reduce your carbon dioxide emissions. Check your hot water thermostat setting; 60ºC/140ºF should be okay.

-    Don’t leave electrical equipment on standby.

-    Twenty percent of heat-loss in a typical home is through draughts. Draft-proofing your home with foams and sealants available at most DIY stores, should save you around £20 a year on your heating bills.

-    Energy-saving light bulbs can save you £9 a year and reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by 40kg. Over the lifetime of the bulb you can save over £100.

-    Wash clothes at at 30ºC.

-    For access to free and impartial advice on renewable energy, contact the Green Energy Centre on 020 8683 6683 or at www.greenenergycentre.org.uk.