Staying warm

Here's some advice on how to keep warm in colder weather without racking up large fuel bills. This is particularly important for residents who are elderly or who have mobility issues. Here are four hot tips:

1. Are you using your central heating system efficiently?

Make sure your room thermostat is set to the correct temperature - usually between 18-21°C. Reducing your room thermostat by just 1°C can save up to 10% on your heating costs so set it to the lowest temperature at which you feel comfortable.

Check your individual radiator valves are set to the correct level. 1 is low, 5 is high. The valves should be set to a low temperature in unused rooms and a higher setting in rooms you would like to be warmer.

If you think any part of your heating system isn't working correctly please report it to us.

If you have a hot water tank, it should be insulated - if it isn't let us know and we can come and fit a jacket for you.

2. Do you know how to get the best from your night storage heater?

If you have a night storage heater make sure you are on a tariff that offers a cheaper rate for electricity overnight, eg 'Economy 7' (contact your fuel supplier to check). Make sure you are using the heater correctly so that you have enough heat stored to last you through the day.

3. Are you with the cheapest energy supplier and on the best tariff for you?

While the cost of energy remains so high, it's unlikely that switching supplier will save you money. However you can always get help comparing suppliers and tariffs and with switching by using a service like U-Switch.

4.Do you know where to go for more advice on saving energy?

The Energy Saving Trust offers a range of free advice, visit their website here or call Simple Energy Advice on 0800 444 202. They'll also be able to provide the latest information about Government support with energy bills as the situation changes.