WITH swathes of the population now working and schooling from home, or having to self-isolate or shield, many of us have never spent so much time in the great indoors.

In winter it means the added burden of higher fuel and water bills.

According to pre-pandemic Government statistics, around 2.4 million households were fuel poor and 3 million households were struggling to pay water bills. With heating and hot water accounting for over 50 per cent of fuel bills, it’s easy to see how the costs can build up.

Even if you aren’t feeling the pinch from energy and water bills, from an environmental standpoint, we can all do our bit to lower our energy and water use. The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has the following tips to aid house holders cut costs and help the environment:

1) Don’t run appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers on a half load

2) Take a shower instead of a bath

3) Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth

4) Identify and address water waste e.g. fix any dripping taps

5) Controls such a boiler thermostat, room thermostat and timer will allow you to heat your home only when it is occupied, or when you are awake

6) Heat only the spaces you are using. Fit thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to your radiators so you can turn off the heating in unoccupied spaces

7) Use smart controls to make your boiler work harder for you

8) If your network allows it, install a smart meter to see where your energy use is high

9) Maintain your appliances

10) Insulate and draught proof your home

11) Ditch appliances like electric fan heaters

12) If your boiler is reaching the end of its working life, take the plunge and replace it

Your local plumbing or heating engineer can help talk you through steps to make your plumbing and heating systems more efficient.

Find one online via the CIPHE’s online search tool at www.ciphe.org.uk by phoning 01708 472791 or by emailing info@ciphe.org.uk.