Could switching put an end to shocking energy bills?

After the winter we saw at the start of 2010, utilities fell well and truly under the spotlight.

Temperatures dropped dramatically, leaving households across the UK freezing in the 'comfort' of their own home.

However, the effects of the credit crunch and ensuing recession also left them unwilling to turn the heating on.

According to a study conducted by uSwitch, 69 per cent of the population rationed their energy use because of cost, while 37 per cent even decided against using their radiators at all.

Furthermore, it found 50 per cent of UK individuals relied on a blanket to keep toasty when indoors.

And their cutbacks did have consequences - 12 per cent said this restraint affected their health or quality of life.

All of this data suggests that millions of people in Britain could do with having to shell out less on their energy especially when it's needed most, in the winter.

But what's the best way of ensuring you've got the cheapest deal on utilities?

Most experts agree that doing your research is the best way to show you just how many pennies could be saved by switching electricity, gas or water deals.

Mark Greening, head of utilities at price comparison website Gocompare.com, recently commented: "As well as making sure your home and appliances are energy efficient, people can save a lot of money on their fuel bills by shopping around for the best deal."

Well, that makes sense when you go to the shopping and want to buy something you know is being sold elsewhere - the logical thing you would do is check out which retailer has it for the cheapest price, right?

Switching utilities providers is no different.

According to Gareth Kloet, head of energy at Confused.com, checking out tariffs on the internet could be the best bet for people trying to cut down on their energy outlay.

He said: "The cheapest deals available are still on the web and you can save a further 18 per cent if you're prepared to shop around."

However, he noted you will probably get the best out of your package if you "opt to pay by direct debit and combine your gas and electricity bills to just one provider".

Changing the way you pay for your fuel is one of the vital aspects of cutting down on your energy outlay.

Online tariffs help to save people money an average of around £325 a year by ditching expensive standard quarterly cash and cheque deals, according to Clare Francis, site editor at moneysupermarket.com.

It's impossible to predict what kind of weather will be thrown at us this winter.

However, one way you can prepare for potential freezing temperatures is by getting your utilities in order and making sure you're not left economising and shivering when the time comes to switch the heating on.

And remember, if you're not happy with your energy providers and you feel your service is having a serious effect on your quality of life, vote with your feet and switch!