*Based on July 2024 energy price cap for GB and October 2023 prices for NI, using a 40-50cm wide grill, cooking for two hours, for a family of four.

With running costs of gas BBQs being double or triple that of other BBQ types, any savings you get in the summer sales might be wiped out after a few uses.

• Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to keep the heat in.

• Use an oven to cook most of your food, then finish it on the BBQ for that smoky flavor.

• Clean your BBQ regularly so it cooks more efficiently.

• Batch cook your food to make the most of the heat.

Even though days are warmer, evenings can still get chilly. If you want to keep your summer party going, you might think about getting a patio heater to keep your guests warm. Here are the running costs for different types of patio heaters:

*Based on July 2024 energy price cap for GB and October 2023 prices for NI, covering 20m2, running for two hours.

Many electric patio heaters are ‘infrared.’ They heat objects and people directly instead of warming the air around them. This helps warm you and your guests faster while using less energy.

• Consider if you really need a patio heater. Most are inefficient because they warm the outdoor air, which cools down quickly.

• Put on an extra layer or use a blanket. Hot summer days often lead to warmer nights, so it might not take much to stay comfortable outside.

• If your outdoor space is windy, think about adding decorative panels to block the chilly breeze.

Retailers often advertise big discounts on inflatable hot tubs, which sell out quickly. Although hot tubs aren’t very common in UK homes, these deals might tempt you to try one. Before buying, consider the factors that can impact running costs. A hot tub can cost between £2 and £8 per use, depending on its size, insulation, exposure to the elements, and the temperature you set it to.

Here are some tips to save energy with your hot tub:

• Choose a smaller hot tub since it takes less energy to heat.

• Opt for hard-shell hot tubs that have better insulation compared to inflatable ones.

• Use a good quality, insulated cover when the hot tub isn’t in use.

• Place your hot tub in a sheltered spot to protect it from wind and cold, so it doesn’t have to work as hard.

• Set your hot tub to the lowest comfortable temperature. Even reducing it by one degree can cut energy use.

If your hot tub has an eco-mode, make sure to use it.

If you’re spending time in your garden this summer, here are some tips to help you save water, especially if there are hosepipe bans:

• If you do use a hosepipe, add an attachment to save about 1,500 litres of water each year. That’s like saving 27 baths’ worth of water.

• Better yet, switch to a watering can instead of a hosepipe. This can save you around 2,200 litres of water a year—about 40 baths’ worth.

• For the most savings, use a water butt to collect rainwater. This can save you an extra 1,100 litres of water annually—another 20 baths’ worth.