With the British summer in full, grizzly swing, it's hard not to think about heating systems around the home; and with the country under severe wind and rain warnings during June, if you don't have the right heating in place come winter, it's going to get chilly - that's a given.

However, for many homeowners, increasingly mounting energy bills are of major concern. And with monthly costs mounting, many may be more inclined to invest in a series of swaddling jumpers and socks than a new boiler - but according to interior designer and TV presenter Julia Kendell, advancements in boiler and radiator technology mean heating your home now is more efficient than ever.

"All heating is now very much more efficient than it used to be," says the expert. "It's definitely worth people checking the system they've got at the moment to see it they can upgrade it."

And the same goes for your lighting, too. Installing LED lighting as an alternative to traditional incandescents is a minor investment that soon pays for itself in the form of reduced energy usage and lower bills.

Especially as insurance aggregator Gocompare.com this week issued a warning that the government's draft Energy Bill leaves many customers at the risk of being left in the dark. The plan - which includes funding new energy generation plants by effectively charging back to the consumer - threatens to raise tariffs, leaving a number of homes close to fuel poverty.

But in a bid to cut those costs that mount up around the home, it seems many are turning their hand to making their own repairs and improvements rather than getting a tradesperson in - especially women.

"People are having a go at more different and adventurous jobs now," says Julia. "Women in particular are very happy to tackle interior jobs, and are picking up power tools now, which I'm delighted to report. There's no reason why the lovely ladies out there shouldn't be taking on DIY jobs - they're very much having a bash and getting some great results."