Cut those winter fuel bills

Even though it is summer this doesn't mean you can forget about power bills. Just think about all those extra showers you keep having. And what about the various fans in different rooms? It all soon adds up. The average UK household is paying around £305 a year for gas and £260 for electricity - and the typical household can cut at least £100 a year off their fuel bills without losing either warmth or comfort by simply using energy efficiently and effectively.

Our top 10 tips for cutting your fuel bills.

1. Check that you are using the cheapest supplier.
It is easy to do this at Tiscali by using our cut your bills calculator, which is supplied by uswitch, and offers free, independent, impartial advice. The site calculates how much you can save - based on your current bills. So, in the comfort of your own home or at your desk you can find out how much better off you would be if you changed suppliers.

2. Switch off unnecessary lights.
A simple, straightforward tip - but difficult for families with teenagers! In a typical home, lighting accounts for 20% of the electricity bill so if you can cut back here you will save money.

3. Change to energy saving bulbs.
Light bulb manufacturer Osram, says: "With the latest technology energy saving light bulbs, you get virtually the same light output as from an ordinary light bulb, for just 20% of the electricity consumption. What's more, they last up to 15 times longer." Osram has calculated that an ordinary (incandescent) 100W light bulb replaced with an energy saving 20W leads to a direct saving for the household of £80 over the lifetime of the new light bulb, even allowing for the higher cost of the energy saving light bulb.

4. Improve your insulation.
As much as 20% of your energy bill can be saved by good loft insulation. Lofts should be insulated to a minimum depth of 150mm (6 inches) - preferably 200mm (8 inches) - and this can be done by either a contractor or DIY. Mineral wool, fibreglass and recycled paper products all work well. Remember to wear a facemask, goggles and protective clothing if you do it yourself, and leave sufficient gaps around the eaves to avoid condensation. Do not insulate under water tanks that may freeze and ensure all pipework and the loft hatch are insulated. This will cost around £150-£300 but will save around £60-£70 a year.