Ideas on energy saving

And there is also an advice line and interest free loans available, all in a bid to help people save energy and money. Heating and insulation is just one of the areas in which changes can be made, including: * Draught proofing windows and doors and blocking cracks in floors and skirting boards. This can lead to savings of up to £35 a year. * Using heating thermostats and radiator valves can save between £80-£165 a year. * Stop blocking the heat, e.g. don't hang washing on radiators to dry and don't position bulky furniture near radiators. * Hang reflective foil behind radiators to stop heat escaping through the wall. Saving water is another means of saving money with the average UK household getting through 360 litres a day. That can be cut by: * Using a bowl rather than tap to wash up and only filling the kettle with the amount you need. * Swapping one bath a week for a shower and using a water efficient showerhead * A running tap wastes more than six litres of water a minute, so turn it off while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your face. * Fix dripping taps, as they waste over 5500 litres of water a year * Just use your washing machine once a week Meanwhile, when it comes to lighting, switching to LEDs can save £35 a year on bills, and turning them off when you're not using them saves about £15 annually. To get more tips and expert advice, contact the Home Energy Scotland helpline on 0808 808 2282. Advisors are available Monday to Friday from 8 am to 8 pm and Saturday 9 am to 5 pm. During 2016 there were over 80,000 calls to the line.