British Gas, OVO, EDF, EOn and Octopus customers can use a "simple tweak" to cut bills. A simple tweak you can make to reduce your hot water bills as costs rise has been revealed by an energy expert amid the ongoing Cost of Living crisis.

Heating expert James Elston, from Boiler Central, has revealed that using timers could stop your money from going down the drain. Investing in a timer for your water heater can be a game-changer for households nationwide.

"Schedule it to heat water only when needed, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption during idle hours," Mr Elston said. "It's a small upfront cost for significant long-term savings." He also urged people to programme the timer to coincide with peak usage times.

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It means hot water is readily available when you need it most. "Aim for a cosy 49°C," the heating expert said in his expert guide. "It's the sweet spot for efficiency and comfort." Reducing the size of your shower head can also bring down costs.

And the expert says making sure you turn off all your taps and regularly check for leaks can also be handy. “This DIY solution is cost-effective and can be found at your local hardware store," he said in his warning to households.

He went on: "This not only conserves energy but also trims down your monthly bills." He added in his warning and advice: "Look for models with the WaterSense label for assurance of efficiency without compromising on performance."

The WaterSense label makes it simple to find water-efficient products, new homes, and programs that meet EPA's criteria for efficiency and performance. WaterSense-labeled products and services are certified to use at least 20 percent less water, save energy, and perform as well as or better than regular models, according to the WaterSense official website.