Martin Lewis urges households to do simple check which 'takes a few minutes' to save £1,480 on energy bills

The call to action comes as part of a push to make British homes more energy-efficient and reduce household costs during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Two main schemes are available: the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) for low-income households and the Great British Insulation Scheme, which is open to an additional 400,000 homes.

On the Money Saving Expert website, Lewis and his team emphasised the importance of checking qualifications for these programmes, which offer a range of free improvements including loft, roof, and cavity wall insulation.

The ECO scheme is designed for those on low incomes and offers a range of energy-efficiency measures. Eligible households can receive free insulation, new boilers, and heating controls.

The Great British Insulation Scheme targets homes in council tax bands A-E across England, Wales, and Scotland. To qualify, properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or lower.

The Government has launched an online eligibility checker to help households determine if they qualify for these valuable improvements.

Research has shown that loft insulation can save £590 annually for detached homes. Cavity wall insulation can add savings of up to £690, while floor insulation can contribute £180 in savings.

A well-insulated home could save up to £1,480 on annual energy bills.

Low-income households may also be eligible for new boilers and heating controls through the ECO scheme.

These measures not only reduce costs but also improve home comfort and energy efficiency. The schemes aim to address fuel poverty and contribute to the UK's energy-saving goals.

Homeowners and renters alike are encouraged to check their eligibility for these valuable improvements.

To apply for these schemes, the quickest method is using the Government's online eligibility checker. After completing the form, eligible households will be contacted by their energy supplier within 10 working days.

Alternatively, applicants can contact their energy supplier directly. A helpline is available on 0800 098 7950 for those unable to use the online service.

The schemes are open to households in council tax bands A-E across England, Wales and Scotland, with an EPC rating of D or lower.

One MSE reader, Del, shared a success story: "I contacted the Help for Households Government website after it was mentioned on a news article from you guys. I was called a few weeks later by UK Energy Management to arrange a survey and discovered my place was E-rated [for energy performance].

"Turned out I qualified for 12 solar panels, an air source heat pump, loft insulation, and new radiators throughout (plus plumbing) – all for free!"

By targeting both low-income households and those in less energy-efficient properties, the schemes aim to make a substantial impact on the UK's overall energy consumption.

As winter approaches, now is the ideal time for Britons to ensure their homes are warm, efficient, and cost-effective.

By participating in these schemes, households can contribute to national energy-saving goals while enjoying lower bills and increased comfort.