Tips to increase energy efficiency 'could save householders money'

With fuel bills on the increase, homeowners may be interested in how they can save money simply and at minimal cost.

Two energy experts with this in mind have come up with some key points that people may not have thought will save them much cash, but could actually save hundreds of pound in the long run.

Mike Malina, an energy efficiency specialist, recommended checking the attic to make sure that heat is not escaping through the roof.

"Have a look in the loft and [make sure] that you've got eight inches, or 200 millimetres, of loft insulation," he urged.

Meanwhile, James Parkinson of Vaillant suggested that anyone with a boiler that is 15 years old or over should consider changing it for a more efficient model.

"If you change your boiler then that can save you up to £240 a year," he pointed out.

According to the Energy Efficiency Partnership for Homes, around £6.8 billion is wasted on energy in the UK every year, equivalent to £113 per person.

The amount of heat lost in homes through roofs and walls every year is enough to heat around 2.2 million properties for 12 months.

Meanwhile, the Energy Savings Trust states that the average UK household could save around £300 per year by being more energy efficient.