Lower cost measures ( typically up to £500 each )

These measures are relatively inexpensive to install and are worth tackling first. Some of them be installed as DIY projects. DIY is not always straight forward and sometimes there are health and safty risks, so take advice from an energy advisor before carrying out DIY improvements.

1) Replace all non-low-energy light bulbs.

Replace any traditional light bulbs with energy saving recommended ones; these reduce lighting costs over the lifetime of the bulb - and they last up to 12 times longer than ordanary light bulbs.

2) Put 160mm jacket on hot water cylinder.

Improving the insulation of your hot water tank using very thick jacket will help reduce your heating bills. You should also insulate the hot water pipe connections to the cylinder, for about a metre, or as far as you can access them. Fit the jacket over the top of any existing jacket and over any thermostat clapmped to the cylinder.

3) Install cylinder stat.

The hot water cylinder requires the addition of a cylinder thermostat to ensure the boiler switches off when the water in the hot water tank is hot enough. Ask a competent plumber or heating engineer to install one.

4) Upgrade insulation to 250mm in main roof.

The anticipated cost is based upon a contractor installing an additional 100mm of glass fibre or mineral wool insulation in your loft, but it can also be installed by a capable DIY enthusiast. If you choose a DIY installation then take care not to block ventilation at the edge of the loft space as this may cause condensation. When handling the insulation always wear gloves and a mask.

Higher cost measures (typically over £500 each)

5) 'A' Rated boiler ( same fuel ) with programmaer, stat and thermostatic radiator valves.

This improvement is most appropriate when your existing boiler requires repair or replacement. A condensing boiler is capable of much higher efficiencies than other types of boiler, meaning it will burn less fuel to heat your property. Since condensing boilers require an additional drain to be connected, only a qualified heating engineer should carry out the installation.

6) Fit 50mm internal insulation to walls.

This is only recommended for solid walls ( without a cavity ) and it involves adding a layer of insulation to the inside or outside surface of your walls. You can choose between two systems. The first is often called dry lining, and is most appropriate if you are decorating inside your home, because a layer of insulation is added to the inside of your walls. The second, external wall insulation, is a major improvement to the outside if your home. This system includes an insulant and a weather protective finish, and improves the look of your home whilst also giving a lasting weather protection and helping to prvent damage to the outside walls. Either of these improvements will stop the heat from escaping from your home so you might like to take professional advice to help you choose between them.

7) Install double glazing.

Replacing the existing single glazed windows with double glazing will improve your comfort in your home by reducing draughts and cold spots near windows. This will also help to save on your heating bills during the long winter months. Building regulations apply to this work, so you should use a contractor who is registered with Fensa or get advice from your local building control authority.

8) Add solar water heating.

A thermal panel, usually fixed to the roof, uses the sun to pre-heat the hot water supply. This will significantly reduce the demand on the heating system to provide hot water and hence save fuel and money. These panels are among the most cost effective renewable systems that can be installed on dwellings in urban or rural environments. The solar trade association has up-to-date information on local installers and any grant that may be available.

9) Add a photovoltaic system.

A solar photvoltaic ( PV ) system is one which converts light directly into electricity via panels placed on the roof with no waste and no emisions. This electricity is used throughout the home in the same way as the electricity purchased from an energy supplier. The solar trade association has up-to-date information on local installers and any grant that may be available.