Money-saving tips in light of soaring energy prices

With household energy bills on the rise, Gareth Kloet, energy expert for Confused.com, suggests some ways in which consumers can help to reduce their monthly payments for energy in their home:

1. Start switching your supplier: around half of the households in this country have never switched supplier, leaving some homes paying 30% more for their fuel than they should be. It is possible to reduce that overspend straightaway simply by switching to a better value tariff - there are more than 14,000 to chose from - which does not even always mean changing supplier. By switching to the best deal available, the average customer, who has never before switched energy suppliers or tariffs, can make a saving of £284.62.

2. Consider capping: with the wholesale cost of energy almost double what it was last year, and further increases expected, now could be the time to switch to a capped-price tariff. If utilities companies up their prices again - and rises of between 10% and 20% have not been uncommon - that mediocre capped rate from your energy supplier could suddenly be very reasonable. If you need some consistency in your monthly spending, consider capped rates.

3. Check your appliances: if you are looking to buy the latest plasma screen, or American- style freezer, take a moment to read the booklet that comes with it. Some household appliances guzzle up electricity so it is worth having a look around your home to see if there are appliances which might be significantly increasing your energy bills.

4. Check your meter regularly: energy suppliers are only legally obligated to read your meter every two years, which means that your energy bills are based on what they think you might use up. Make sure that you check your meter on a regular basis and let your supplier know the reading. Their lines are often open 24-hours-a-day and they will amend your bill accordingly.

5. Don't inherit someone else's supplier: a classic mistake to make when you move into a new residence is to stay with the previous owner's supplier. Make sure that you read the meter as soon as you move in, and investigate the previous occupier's energy supplier. Unless that supplier is offering the best deal, look to change to a better tariff, or even change supplier altogether. If you want to save money, don't be lazy - start to investigate.

6. Most importantly, shop around: comparison sites are a great way to compare different suppliers and their tariffs, but ensure that the website you are using is as comprehensive as possible. There are six major suppliers, but some comparison sites do not cover all six, limiting your choice. In order to really save money, you need to search the whole market and all of the available tariffs.

For more information, visit confused.com.