There are various steps homeowners can take to reduce their utility bills, one website has explained, with many of them requiring very little effort at all.

Alastair Harnby, marketing director at Moneyextra.com, noted that receiving gas and electricity from the same supplier often leads to significant savings.

Furthermore, he recommended opting for paperless billing, as many providers will give discounts to customers who choose to manage their accounts online.

Another top tip from Mr Harnby is to pay, where possible, by direct debit, as this should open up a number of cheaper premiums.

On a more practical level, people can make their properties more energy efficient, such as through the installation of double glazing or insulation, which should pay for itself over the years.

Lastly, going for a fixed-rate tariff will help protect customers from any further price rises, which could prove worthwhile in the current climate.