The information leaflet, which can be given to their constituents, tells householders how they can save money and stay warm this winter.

1. Heating system - get your heating system and gas appliances serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Include a chemical inhibitor– to break down sludge and limescale.

2. Hot Water - check your cylinder insulation, the pipes running to and from it and set the Thermostat on the hot water to no more than 60°C - this will still provide hot water and is safer for children.

3. Radiators - remove trapped air, use thermostatic valves - keep them low or turned off in rooms that aren’t used. And don’t cover them.

4. Controls - install intelligent heating controls – this could not only save you money, it will provide flexibility and efficiency. Programme your heating to suit your lifestyle and the weather.

5. Check your pipes-. check all pipework to ensure that there are no leaks, fix any drips and lag pipes to avoid bursts.

6. Heat only what you use- only heat the room you use the most, you don’t have to use the central heating to heat the entire house, a gas fire can also be used inexpensively as a single source of heat.

7. Update your heating system- inefficient boilers cost you more and emit higher levels of carbon dioxide than modern condensing boilers. 

8. Keep the heat in – when you heat your home, warm air pulls cold air from outside, in, so block draughts and draw your curtains – properly fitted curtains act as a great insulation reducing heat loss through glass.

9. Know your system- knowing how to use your heating system and controls properly is the key to delivering savings.
   
   
10. If you don’t know, ask- your local Gas Safe registered engineer will be able to advise you on all of the tips above.

The leaflet also covers the Priority Services Register for older and disabled people and details of how householders may also be able to get additional help with their bills. It can be downloaded here.