COMMENT
How To Cut Your Energy Bills

How unfortunate it was for Centrica -- the company that owns British Gas -- that they declared record profits just days after announcing the biggest ever increase in energy prices.

British Gas has more customers than all the other energy suppliers put together and its 22% increase in prices will affect just over 11 million gas customers and nearly 6 million electricity customers.

As it happens, British Gas isn't the only supplier putting its prices up but while it won't be long before the daffodils are out and it gets warmer, there's still a lot you can do to keep your energy bills down:

• Turn your heating thermostat down by just 1°C -- it could cut your heating bills by up to 10%. The same goes for your hot water cylinder if you have one -- 60°C is fine for bathing and washing -- and make sure the cylinder is properly insulated.
• Have a shower instead of a bath.
• Always put the plug in your basin or sink. Leaving hot water running straight down the drain really is throwing money away.
• Use energy-efficient light bulbs - each bulb you fit could save up to £7 a year
• Close the curtains or blinds early on in the evening to stop heat escaping through the windows. It cuts down on draughts too.
• Don't leave televisions, videos, stereos and computers on standby -- always turn them off. A single television on standby costs around 8p a day
• If you're not using the fire, close off the damper to prevent heat from escaping up the chimney.
• Use draught excluders where you can - particularly around exterior doors and letterboxes.
• Regularly defrost your freezer to keep it running efficiently. Allow food to cool properly before putting it in the fridge so it doesn't have to work so hard at keeping the temperature at the right level.
• Never run the washing machine or dishwasher unless it's a full load.
• Appliances such as fridges, freezers, washing machines, tumble driers, cookers, hobs and dishwashers now have different energy ratings to help you see how energy efficient they are. So if you're buying a new appliance bear in mind that A++ is the most efficient and G the worst.

There are also range of grants available to help you make your home more energy efficient and cut your fuel bills through draught proofing, cavity wall or loft insulation. Check out the Energy Saving Trust website to find out if you're eligible. You may qualify for financial help towards the costs of loft and cavity wall insulation and 20% discounts off energy-efficient appliances. You can take up offers from any of the energy companies, regardless of who supplies your gas and electricity.

And finally, don't forget to compare your gas and electricity suppliers with alternatives to see if you can buy your energy more cheaply elsewhere.