IS IT TIME TO SWITCH UP YOUR HEATING?

Rethink your home's heating system to make it more efficient and in keeping with its style too

- Andrea Dean

Unless you've recently installed an entire new heating system, there are always improvements you can carry out to boost efficiency and keep bills as low as possible while enhancing the look and feel of your home. Maybe you're keen to cosy up a living space by installing a fire or stove. Or perhaps you're sick of the sight of ugly radiators that jar with the decor! Does your central heating require a complete overhaul, starting with the boiler, or are you looking into reducing your carbon footprint by using renewable energy? From minor enhancements to major revamps, these are the upgrades to consider.

1, Gas or electric fires

A gas fire is a practical alternative to a real fire or stove, but it does require a little more work than some other options - think gas supply, flue and installation by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. Or you could choose a fussfree electric model with a realistic flame effect. It simply plugs in for instant heat, is more efficient, can be used throughout the year, doesn't produce emissions and also won't need a chimney, a flue, or frequent servicing! However, you need to think about space before you commit - an electric fire won't be sufficient for a large room, so team it with another heat source. Freestanding electric stoves sit inside a fireplace or against a wall, and inset fires are designed for inside a recess. Choose a wall-mounted fire if you're short on space or fit a glass-fronted media wall fire with a TV above, built into a false chimney.

2 New radiators