Saving energy at home isn’t merely about becoming more energy efficient; it is also about finding ways of saving money too.

Sometimes that could mean taking a few small but regular steps, that could lead to a reduction in your monthly or yearly cash outlay.

Here’s 10 top simple tips that could well see you saving a bit of money:

1: Switch off instead of being on standby

Cut back on your electricity bill by not leaving your electrical products on standby. Remember to switch them off and unplug them when not in use.

2: Control your heating levels

If you think you can, without feeling the chill, then turn down your thermostat. Research suggests going just one degree lower could save you over £100 a year.

3: See the light with energy-saving bulbs

Energy-saving light bulbs last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs, and use approximately 80% less energy.

4: Don’t forget to turn your lights off

Of course, this is something most of us say we do anyway, as a matter of course, but it bears repeating. Try and ensure your lights are switched off when not required.

5: Be watchful with water

You may be able to cut back on your water bill by cutting back on your water usage wherever possible, such as taking quick showers, using just the right amount of water needed for cooking, and ensuring running taps are immediately switched off after use.

6: Don’t overfill your kettle

Try and remember to only put in the amount of water you need to boil, as each time your kettle is full to the brim (and you don’t use it all) wastes energy and money.

7: Act cool when it comes to washing machines

A 30-degree wash could save over a third of the energy you use when compared to washing at a higher temperature. Try to remember that 90% of the energy a washing machine uses goes towards heating the water. Also, try and limit the number of washes per week by ensuring a full load.

8: Be careful with your tumble dryer

If you are fortunate to have an outside space and the weather is nice, try and use a washing line or clothes horse to dry your clothes, rather than constantly turning to your tumble dryer. And if you do turn to your dryer as the first and last option don’t overload it. Tumble dryers consume more energy than most washing machines.

9: Fill up your dishwasher

If you have a dishwasher in your home then only use it when you have a full load to clean. A half load uses the same amount of energy as a full one.

10: Check if your fridge and freezer are on suitable settings

The Food Standards Agency recommends keeping fridges at 5 degrees centigrade and freezers at -18 degrees centigrade. Anything colder is a waste of energy and money. And if you are having to buy a new fridge or freezer look out for one that has an Energy Saving Recommended logo.