Many homeowners during winter time are tempted to turn their thermostats to the highest setting possible in order to keep cold drafts at bay. 

Others suggest keeping the heating on for long periods of time set on a low heat can save you money. 

Express.co.uk has explained the three simple DIY steps to avoiding leaks and water damage when the weather plummets to below 0C this weekend - and how to de-ice your driveway when the cold weather causes dangerous ice patches. 

But what is the most cost-efficient way to heat your home? What temperature should you have your thermostat set? And how can you keep your energy bills low this winter? 

Martin Lewis, 45, revealed the answers to Express.co.uk. 

So is it cheaper to leave the heating on low all day than have it turned off and on? 

The Money Saving Expert said: “Just pay to pump energy in as and when is needed, as to keep pumping it in constantly isn’t efficient. 

“Using a timer's best, because your thermostat is designed to turn your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you set it. This is the view of both the Energy Saving Trust and British Gas, so in general, I’d stick with that. 

“Yet some heating engineers argue that keeping all the radiators on full but with the boiler down can reduce condensation.  Whereas on and off can make it worse.  

“As condensation helps conduct heat outside the home – you lose heat more quickly and will use more energy as a result. So if your house is prone to condensation, you may want to think about it.” 

When it comes to paying your energy bills, what does he suggest is the cheapest way? 

Paying it monthly by direct debit is the answer, according to Martin.

He said by doing this: “Suppliers offer discounts of around 7 per cent.

“Yet while you pay less in total, as its estimating your usage, if it overestimates it could ask you for more cash – leaving you in-credit - or worse, leaving you underpaying, and in debt with it. 

“So ensure you always give regular meter readings to get accurate bills.  And if you think its estimate is wrong, you have a right to challenge.” 

Do you know how much it really costs to run items that use up energy in your home?

It might surprise you to know that using the washing machine costs 50p per use.

Here’s a list of how much energy items cost to use.