Nobody likes being stung with a big energy bill. But you can save almost £400 a year with just a few simple energy saving measures. It could be even more in a large house that many of you share.

As promised, we’ve put together our top 10 tips to reduce your energy costs:

  1. Switch to an energy saving shower head. You won’t be able to relax in the soothing jets of a power shower but fitting one of these could save you up to £70 a year.
  2. Don’t leave your phone on charge for any longer than necessary. It’s bad for the battery and bad for your energy bills, costing £60 a year according to E.ON.
  3. Turn your central heating down one degree to save up to £60 a year.
  4. Use low energy light bulbs. They may take a while to get going but they could save you up to £55 a year.
  5. Keep energy in by closing curtains, checking your loft is properly insulated and using draught excluders. OK, they’re not stylish and they might remind you of your Gran, but they could help you to save another £55.
  6. Turn off appliances and lights when you’re not in the room for a further £40 saving.
  7. Don’t fill the kettle if you only need enough water for one cup of tea. You’re pouring away £12 a year typically.
  8. Try to do your washing at a lower temperature. Your clothes will still come out clean if you wash them at 30 degrees instead of 40 – and Which? says you will save £9 a year.
  9. Only use the washing machine when you have a full load. If you don’t have enough to fill it, try asking if your housemates need anything washing. This will endear you to them, help save £3 on energy a year and save on washing powder too.
  10. Defrost your fridge freezer regularly and never put hot food in the fridge.