According to the Energy Saving Trust, being more energy efficient in your home could save up to £250 a year on your energy bills, as well as helping to combat climate change.

Follow UpMyStreet's top energy saving tips to start making savings.

1. Switch off

Leaving items plugged in or on standby wastes enough energy to power 2.7 million homes for a year. Turn lights and appliances off when you're not using them, and get into the habit of unplugging them too.

 
2. Draught-proof your home

Seal up draughts in doors and windows using draught excluders, available from DIY stores, or make your own using old fabric or clothing. Try insulating tape or sealant on smaller draughts.

 
3. Turn it down

Turn your thermostat down by one degree. You probaby won't notice the difference in temperature, but you will see the financial savings. The Energy Saving Trust estimate your heating bills could be reduced by up to 10% - saving you around £40 a year.

 
4. Buy Energy Saving Recommended products

When buying new white goods or other household items, look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo. This guarantees that the product is the most energy efficient option on the market and will cost less to run. 

 
5. Switch to a green energy supplier

All the main energy suppliers have green electricity tariffs which shouldn't cost you more than your regular bill. Depending on the tariff, your electricity will be from renewable energy sources, or your company will donate money to renewable energy development projects.

 
6. Choose energy saving light bulbs

Energy saving light bulbs will save you £9 a year for every bulb you switch - they last longer and use 20% of the power to light a room than a regular light bulb.

 
7. Insulate your home

Homes lose up to 33% of their heat through the walls or roof. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you can save:

• £90 a year and one tonne of CO₂ with cavity wall insulation
• £200 a year and two tonnes of CO₂ with solid wall insulation
• £150 a year and one-and-a-half tonnes of CO₂ with loft insulation

 
8. Install double glazing

Double-glazed windows can save up to £100 a year on your heating bills, as well as reducing the impact of outside noise and adding security. Leave it to professional window fitters to install the glass.

 
9. Update your boiler

If your boiler is 15 years old or more, it won't be performing at its best. Replacing with a high-efficiency condensing boiler will save you a third on your bills. Fit an insulating jacket around your boiler to save a further £20 a year.

 
10. Adjust your washing machine
Washing your clothes at 30^o can cut your washing energy costs by up to 40%, and will still give you the same cleaning results. Select an economy cycle for smaller loads, or wait until you have a full load before washing.