Heating our homes is a top priority as the temperatures plummet and the weather turns wintery. After a mild start to autumn, millions of people across the UK will be waking up to snow and looking for ways to save money on their energy bills.

Heating and renovation expert Andy Simms from MyBuilder.com says that many of the customers he speaks to are looking for cost effective ways to cut their bills and stay warm in winter, with his advice ranging from getting an engineer to service your boiler to hot water cylinder jackets and more substantial work such as improving insulation.

"A hot water cylinder jacket, for example, is a cheap hack that costs just £20 but can realistically save you hundreds of pounds over the years," he says.

"There’s a good mix of simple steps you can take to help save on heating costs, but the best strategy is to combine these with more permanent solutions that you’d need to get the experts in to do."

His tip tips for saving money on your heating include:

Get your boiler serviced

The last thing you need when the temperature plummets is to be without heating. MyBuilder.com statistics recently showed that many UK homeowners are delaying getting their annual service due to the cost of living crisis, but it’s one area you can’t scrimp on. Getting your boiler serviced ahead of cold weather ensures you will stay warm, and can prevent more costly issues with our boiler in the future.

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Bleed your radiators

Switching on the heating to find your radiators are still stone cold is so frustrating. In many cases, this might just be caused by air bubbles that block up the pipework. Bleeding a radiator simply involves releasing the valve (normally located in the top corner) and letting the excess air out. Make sure the heating is turned off for this process. You may need a radiator key for this, or a screwdriver. Release the valve with a tissue or rag underneath to catch any water after the air has stopped hissing out, and close  the valve as soon as water starts to come out. If there are problems across multiple radiators, it could be a sign of larger issues in your heating system, and it could be worth getting a heating professional to investigate.

Consider insulation

Good insulation is brilliant for protecting your home from both hot and cold weather, so it’s well worth investing in. Lofts are a good place to start, as this is often where the most heat is lost. 

Look at your windows

Your windows could be a major source of heat loss in your home, especially if they are old. According to government statistics, 18 per cent of heat loss occurs through windows. Also, seven per cent of UK homes have no double glazing - and single glazing is far less efficient. It is worth getting a professional to assess the condition of your windows and consider the cost savings in the long term of upgrading.

Install some thermal curtains

If you don’t already have them, thermal curtains or blinds are great for temperature control. They can keep the warmth inside in winter, and keep the sun out in summer! Quick and easy to install if you have the right tools, or with the help of a Handyman, they can keep your home much warmer in freezing temperatures.

And here's one he's not so sure about, at least in terms of saving money and energy...

Despite online tips, he advises painting radiators will not save you money on heating bills.

"While painting radiators can look stylish, it is unlikely to save you money on your bills," he says.  "There are more effective ways to make your heating more efficient. but does work well with the current trend of colour drenching which sees wall colours continued over doors, skirting, and ceilings.

"The trend is popular with interior designers who claim that the tactic provides a cosy feel to your rooms whilst also creating the illusion of space.

"If you want to paint your radiator, first make sure it is sanded down," he says. "Once this is completed, clean it thoroughly. Sugar soap is a great product to use and will ensure there is nothing left to prevent your paint from sticking. Then turn it off and open a window while you paint. Use a primer first, and once this is done, choose a paint that is specifically meant for radiators - or at least meant for metal surfaces. Using a paint meant for other surfaces will result in cracking and flaking once the radiator is switched on."