How to cut your utility bills

Water may not be the most expensive utility, but it's probably the one households waste more than any other. This means that saving water is just as important as cutting the amount of gas and electricity you use and small changes will make a big difference.

• Cut the amount of water your toilet uses for each flush by adding a water hippo or save-a-flush to your toilet cistern - it can save 3 litres each time. Some water companies offer these for free so it's worth checking.
• Replace old toilets with dual flush units or take the cheaper option and add dual flush to the loo you already have
• In the garden, add a water butt to catch run off rainwater. Use it to water plants and wash the car.
• Buy a washing up bowl for the kitchen sink.
• Add an aerator to all your household taps and shower unit to pump air into water slashing the volume of water needed each time
• Swap baths for daily showers and make baths a treat to enjoy from time to time
• When you clean your teeth turn off the tap instead of letting it run in-between brushes
• With the kitchen kettle, only boil as much water as you need instead of reheating unused water again and again
• Always run your washing machine or dishwasher with a full load
• Fix all dripping taps, especially hot taps
• Pour half finished water glasses into house plants or a watering can in the garden
• Swap a hosepipe for a bucket and sponge if you wash your car