For many households, the idea of higher energy bills can raise concerns, as soaring costs are putting pressure on families already feeling the pinch of the cost of living crisis.

Andrai Carcu, director of Emergency Electrics and Heating 24/7 has explained just how much money Britons could be losing this winter by making this small error – and how to save money as we head towards Christmas.

Despite the new energy price cap leaving some bills to cost less than last year, there are still many ways to bring the costs down even further and make your money last.

Turn Your Appliances Off

Leaving appliances on standby can be costing people more money. Mr Carcu explained some appliances can use up to 10 watts an hour whilst on standby, costing around 28p per hour, amounting up to £24.53 over the course of a year.

Even when appliances are turned off, they can still draw power sitting idle in standby mode.

Britons are encouraged to unplug devices or use smart plugs to remotely turn off appliances that are not in use.

Smart plugs can also be programmed to automatically turn off devices that are power-hungry during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper for your household.

Use Energy-Efficient Lighting

Change traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED options.

LED lights use significantly less energy and last much longer. He stated: “Now is the ideal time to take advantage of natural light during daylight hours by keeping curtains open and enjoying the Autumn sun”.

Upgrade Insulation and Heating

He continued: “Ensure your home is properly insulated and consider upgrading to a more efficient heating system, like a condensing boiler.

“Using a programmable thermostat allows you to control your heating and set it to lower temperatures when you’re not at home or at night time.”

Turn your thermostat down

If the thermostat is creeping up to 22-23°, it’s unlikely people will notice the temperature dropping a degree or two.

On the coldest winter days, it may not be possible to reach high temperatures of rooms with high ceilings that are particularly airy.

Mr Carcu said: “Dropping from 21° to 18° could save you over £300 per year.”