Don't wait for price cuts

1) Compare and switch - never switched? Then now is not the time to be complacent as you are likely to be paying a premium on your energy bills. Getting the right deal for you - dependent on where you live, your actual energy usage and how you like to pay - is key to saving those pounds. If you use a price comparison service, check that it is accredited under the Consumer Focus Confidence Code, impartial and upfront about how it earns its money.

2) Pay the easy way - if you pay by cash or cheque you could be paying £94 a year on average more for your energy than paying by direct debit. Not only is direct debit easy, but many suppliers offer a discount for paying this way.

3) Switch two for one - dual fuel (buying gas and electricity from one supplier) can save time and money. Not only do you benefit from dealing with just one bill and one supplier, but dual fuel plans can also offer a discount.

4) Go online - customers on standard plans are paying on average £168 more than new online customers. This is an easy saving to make - don't be put off by it being called an ‘online' plan as some suppliers will only expect you to register online and then manage your account in the same way as before.

5) Keep on top of energy bills - make sure you give regular meter readings to ensure you are being billed accurately and review your energy bills at least once a year to ensure you are still on the cheapest deal.

6) Insulate, insulate, insulate - don't spend hard earned cash heating up the street and not your home. Make sure your loft is insulated to a depth of at least 10 inches.

7) Shed some light on savings - contact your supplier or the Energy Saving Trust to find out whether you would be eligible for a grant or financial help towards making your home more energy efficient.

8) Switch it off - before you go to bed make sure you turn off all appliances such as TVs, computers and DVD players at the socket. Fit energy efficient light bulbs and make sure you turn lights off when not using a room.

9) Turn it down - most of us have the heating on way too hot. Turn it down by just one degree and you could save up to 10% on bills.

10) Cut out the draughts - check your windows and doors are sealed against draughts before the winter chill turns your home into an icebox.
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