Cut your heating bills!

High energy costs can make the colder months an expensive time - help save both energy and fffs with useful advice from our panel of heating experts

- Lisa Hibberd

I'd love a fire with real flames in my living room, but what’s the most efficient type to run?

Michelle Bowler, purchasing and planning director at Stovax Gazco, knows all about the importance of fire efficiency. She says...

'If you're looking for real flames, the most cost-effective type of stove to run will vary depending on either your access to firewood, or your gas tariff. But when it comes to efficiency, you'll find that most modern gas stoves or wood burners provide excellent heat output with high performance.

For example, many gas stoves come as balanced flue models, which can reach efficiency performance levels of over 90% – such as the Gazco Loft, which offers a beautiful, tall living flame and an efficiency of up to 94.3%.

Alternatively, if you prefer burning real logs, Ecodesign-compliant wood-burning stoves offer a vastly more efficient and cleaner option than older open fires. Ecodesign models use advanced combustion technology to burn fuel more completely, producing more heat and fewer emissions. Models like the Stovax Riva2 40 wood-burning fire deliver high-efficiency performance with all the enjoyment of rich rolling flames.

Although not living flames, it's worth considering electric fires which bring real flame footage into an electric format, and can be enjoyed with or without heat. Look at Stovax’s Onyx Fusion.'

How much difference do thermal blinds and curtains actually make?

Helen O'Connor, product and trend manager at 247 Blinds, is an expert in how window dressings can make a difference to your home. She recommends...