I’m an energy expert – simple tweak you can make to reduce your hot water bills as costs rise

, has revealed that using timers could stop your money from going down the drain.

He claims that investing in a timer for your water heater can be a game-changer and advises for Brits to act now.

"Schedule it to heat water only when needed, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption during idle hours," Mr Elston said.

"It's a small upfront cost for significant long-term savings."

Another handy tip is to consider programming the timer to coincide with peak usage times, so hot water is readily available when you need it most.

But buying a timer isn't the only ingenious hack that is budget-friendly and remarkably effective in reducing hot water bills.

Mr Elston also suggests making temperature tweaks on their water heater's thermostat.

He claims that lowering the temperature by just a few degrees can result in substantial savings - without even noticing a difference.

"Aim for a cosy 49°C," the heating expert said. "It's the sweet spot for efficiency and comfort."

Another option is to insulate your water heater.

According to Mr Elston, wrapping your water heater with an insulating blanket minimises heat loss, ensuring your appliance doesn't have to work overtime to maintain the desired temperature.

“This DIY solution is cost-effective and can be found at your local hardware store," he said.

Fixing your leaky taps and upgrading to low-flow showerheads can also do the trick when it comes to reducing hot water bills.

A steady drip can add up quickly, causing your water heater to work harder, so try and make it a habit to check for and fix leaks in taps, pipes and valves.

Mr Elston also describes low-flow showerheads as a homeowner's "secret weapon".

Not only will you be reducing your hot water usage, but you can also maintain a satisfying shower experience.

"This not only conserves energy but also trims down your monthly bills," the expert said. "Look for models with the WaterSense label for assurance of efficiency without compromising on performance."