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.
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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.
SAVE: around £25 a year
TALK IS SHEEP: If you have an open chimney, draught-proof it (when it is not in use!).
Prices for the Chimney Sheep draught excluder, a removable “plug” made from highly durable wool, start from £17.50. Wickes sells a PVC universal chimney draught excluder for £17.
SAVE: £17 to £20 a year
GET A JACKET: Insulating your hot water cylinder is an easy way to save energy. You need a jacket at least 80mm thick. A British Standard jacket will do the job perfectly. Pick one up from Wickes for £19.
SAVE: £20 a year
PIPE UP: Insulate exposed hot water pipes to keep water hotter for longer. Slot foam tubes from your local DIY store around the pipes. B&Q sells Climaflex lagging for £1.26 a metre.
SAVE: £5-£10 a year
- Prices correct at time of going to press. Deals subject to availability.
Deal of the day
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GET 50 per cent off pick-and- mix at Wilko. Go for a medium cup of sweets for £1.50, down from £3.
SAVE: £1.50
Cheap treat
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SNACK on Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Original, now £2.50 at Sainsbury’s instead of £3.20.
SAVE: 70p
What’s new?
ENJOY a fun-packed family adventure at Dino Kingdom in Gunnersbury Park, West London, from April 1-18.
Ticket prices start from £14 per adult, £12 per child, and £49 for a family. Early bird tickets are available now with 20 per cent off. See dinokingdom.com.
Top swap
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STEP up to the bar with the Gouda Colors synthetic rattan high stool for £149.95 from Sklum. Or get the Nirvana stool from Dunelm for £105.
SAVE: £44.95
Leah’s little helper
CELEBRATE February 14 with a Valentine’s Day exclusive deal at Domino’s. Get two medium pizzas and cookies for £19.99.
Shop & save
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HOLLAND & Barrett has cut prices on more than 100 items including slow-release vitamin C (120 tablets) from £16.99 to £11.99, and evening primrose oil (60 capsules) from £12.99 to £8.99.
Play now to win £100
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