FAMILIES have been given tips on how to save money on their utility bills.

The Consumer Council for Water has issued the advice on reducing energy bills and saving water after research revealed about 25 per cent of a household’s energy bill comes from heating water – particularly in baths, showers, washing machines and dishwashers.

Council chairwoman Dame Yve Buckland said: “At a time when so many household bills are rising, people may be looking for ways to make every penny count.

“Taking five minutes to consider these water and energy saving tips could pay off in the long run, and have the added benefit of helping to reduce your carbon footprint.”

She said households could:

* Replace worn washers on leaky taps – a dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath.

* Take a five minute shower instead of a bath – or go one step further and install a water saving showerhead, which can cut the amount of water used by about 30 per cent.

* When putting the kettle on to boil, only fill it with as much water as necessary – two-thirds of us waste energy by boiling more water than we need.

* Make sure their dishwasher or washing machine is completely full before turning it on and avoid using the half load setting – half-load cycles can use much more than half the energy and water of a full load. * Reduce washing machines temperatures to 30C – it will reduce energy consumption by 40 per cent.

* Set their hot water cylinder thermostat at 60C (140F) – any higher is a waste of energy and could lead to scalding, and any lower could create risks to health.

* Insulate their hot water tank – fitting a jacket at least 75mm thick could save £30 each year.

A full list of water saving tips is available at ccwater.org.uk