What's the most efficient way to use my gas c/h?

[Geometer]

I wish I'd asked this question in November.

I'm unemployed, living in rented accommodation, desperate to keep my gas bill down. The last one was a shock, and my heart sank when they announced the latest price rise (I'm with npower).

I'm in a 3 bed end-of-terrace, it seems fairly well insulated, double-glazed, reaonably draft-free. I was sharing with 2 others until last July, since then I've had the place to myself, occupying 1 room upstairs + kitchen/bathroom

There are radiators in all rooms, I currently have the heating active in the kitchen, hallway, and my room. Sometimes the bathroom. I keep all doors closed. I'm fairly tolerant of cold, so normally I don't switch on till dusk, and switch off about 10 pm. Downstairs warms up a lot quicker than upstairs. I retire about midnight and open my window because I can't sleep in a warm stuffy room.

I'm sure I'm not making the most effective use of my money, could I adopt a better regime?

Geometer

 

[chrishutt]

Details of boiler and controls? Do you have a good level of roof insulation? Have you considered changing gas supplier? Getting in others to share rent and bills might be a good move too.

 

[RigidRaider]

How user-friendly is your landlord? If you found out about grants or offered to install it, do you think he might shell out a couple of hundred quid for an extra layer of roof insulation? It's in his long-term interest.

If you have sash windows the heat-shrinking plastic film is good for keeping drafts out, it doesn't cost much at all.

 

[Geometer]

Details of boiler and controls?.

The boiler says "British Gas CDi series". do you need more than that?
There's a remote control thermostat, but neither me nor landlord can figure out how it works and he's lost the manual. It's currently showing 14C, which is comfortable.

Do you have a good level of roof insulation? .

there is some, but i can't get into the loft to investigate further.

Have you considered changing gas supplier? .

i would, but landlord is selling the house and I'll be moving out by the end of feb, maybe sooner, so doesn't seem much point. I know its late in the day to ask, but if I can save myself a few quid over the next few weeks by turning something on or off, then i will. Besides, I'm curious, I'd like to know what I'm doing wrong for future reference.

Getting in others to share rent and bills might be a good move too.

you have to be joking. The last two did a runner owing me £850 in unpaid bills. I won't see that again. (see also above re landlord)