Fit individual radiator thermostats

Install thermostatic radiator control valves.

Take charge of your central heating by introducing a system of valves to manage temperature.

These valves are fitted onto individual radiators and are used to sense temperature; switching units on or off, depending on how warm the room is. They usually have a fat valve at one end, marked with a * and numbers from 1 to 5. The * setting is to protect against frost; it will typically leave the radiator switched off unless the temperature falls below about 6°C. For a normal living room, the setting of 3 or 4 is likely to be about right; for a bedroom a cooler temperature will generally suffice.

Installing the valves is a great way to control individual radiators in a room. They work most effectively when kept at a constant level; to prevent anyone from changing the level you can activate the locking device or fit a protective cap.

Valves cost as little as £6-£7 each and can either be fitted by DIYers who are confident with plumbing or by consulting a professional if you're at all unsure. The exact energy saving will be dependant on how well the radiators are balanced and how often you use the heating system, but the average saving is thought to be between £10 and £20 per year.