Where possible adjust lighting in the living and dining rooms as appropriate. The level of heating required for these rooms is usually high compared to other areas of the house.
• Use CFLs or dimmer switches (though not together) to achieve appropriate lighting levels.

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• Unplug or turn off electrical equipment such as TVs, videos/DVDs, Hi-Fi and computers when not in use, as they use energy even when they are on ‘standby’. All lights and appliances should be switched off when not in use.

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• Thermostatic radiator valves keep rooms at a constant and comfortable
temperature and are very effective in rooms with other heat sources, such as open fires.

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• If required, choose occasional electric heaters that are fitted with a thermostatic control to maintain optimum comfort at minimum energy use.

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• An efficient heating system will provide significantly more heat than an open or fuel-effect fire, which lose
up to 85% of their energy up the chimney.

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Curtains

During cold weather, take advantage of the sun’s warmth by keeping drapes open during daylight hours. To keep out the heat of the summer sun, close window shades and drapes in warm weather.