How to insulate your home and save on energy bills

WITH energy bills set to soar from April, when suppliers will be allowed to charge more for gas and electricity, now is the ideal time to insulate your home.

The 54 per cent hike to the price cap means families will see their bills rise by an average of £700 a year.

But there are ways to limit the hit. Draught-proofing is one of the most effective ways to save energy and money.

The focus needs to be on blocking gaps that let in cold air and let warm air out. While you are at it, you could improve the insulation on your hot water tank and pipes.

You may have to pay for products up front but in many cases they are only a few pounds — and you will soon recoup the cost with savings.

MIND THE GAPS: Draught-proofing windows and doors is inexpensive. At B&Q, six metres of 5.5.mm Diall self-adhesive draught seal is £4.79, while Wickes sells ten metres of own-brand rubber draught seal for £5. At Robert Dyas, you can get a PVC door bottom brush for £4.99 and at Screwfix, a Diall letterbox “double-brush” seal is £4.69.