A trade association that represents electricians has provided some tips on how to cut your annual energy bill by around £400.
The majority of households will experience a sharp rise in energy costs during the winter months, but the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) believes some green measures will reduce the impact.
The ECA recommends switching to energy-saving lightbulbs at an estimated annual saving of up to £100 a year, while turning down the thermostat to between 18C and 21C can save around £65 a year.
Heating and hot water boiler controls also minimise waste and could save up to £100 by heating water at the times when it is most needed.
Investing in a new energy-efficient boiler will also pay dividends in the long run and save around £128 annually.
Giuliani Digilio, the ECA's energy saving expert, said: "When putting the clocks back this October think about taking a few simple and relatively inexpensive steps, which can be financially rewarding, particularly in the face of energy price hikes over the next few years."
Copyright Press Association 2010