While insulation could go a long way in ensuring homes do not use too much energy, certain “behavioural things” can also help to cut bills, it has been suggested.

Rob Bell of the Energy Savings Trust said that in addition to taking insulation measures, householders should also control their heating system better in order to cut bills.

He said householders could cut heating bills by as much as ten per cent if they turned their thermostat down by one degree.

Mr Bell also said that the heating should not be left on all day but that a timer should be used instead.

“By controlling your system a lot better you are not wasting your heating,” he said.

“Yes, it is about insulation but it is also about knowing how to use your heating system as well to make even further savings.”

Consumers should anticipate an increase in fuel bills next year, it has been suggested.

In November, price comparison service uSwitch predicted an increase of ten per cent for 2008.

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