A round-up of low and no cost measures you can take to save energy and reduce your bills

No-cost:

—Turning down your thermostat by just 1C could save you up to £60 a year

—Switch off your immersion heater – they can cost up to 50p an hour to run

—Don’t leave appliances on stand-by

—Make sure dishwashers and washing machines are full before you use them and make sure you use the eco setting when you switch them on

—Air-dry your laundry rather than tumble drying if you can

Low-cost:

—Add a thermal lining to your curtains to stop heat escaping

—Replace light bulbs with low-energy LED bulbs

—Fit radiator panels and save up to ten percent on your annual heating bill

—Upgrade your heating controls – a thermostat can help you to be more energy efficient

—Draught-proof your home

Islington residents who are over 60, on a low income, have a disability or long-term illness or have children can also apply to the council’s SHINE service for help. Find out more on the SHINE website or call the SHINE team on 0300 555 0195 or 020 7527 2001. You can also email shine@islington.gov.uk