Homeowners and business energy users should consider switching energy suppliers before the predicted record winter freeze hits, according to the Energy Advice Line.
Julian Morgan, managing director of the price comparison, switching and advice service for energy users said it was just weeks before the 'Big Switch On' on October 31, when consumers traditionally turned on the heating on a daily basis.
"With forecasters predicting an Arctic winter freeze, now is the time for consumers to investigate switching so that they are not paying over the odds once the bitter cold sets in." Mr Morgan said.
"It's possible to save as much as hundreds of pounds by switching supplier in advance of the end of October, when traditionally we turn out heating on every day.
"With forecasters predicting record lows, it really is worth investing the time and the effort in taking control of your energy supplies and shopping around for the best deals to take you through the winter."
Mr Morgan said that Energy Advice Line experts had the knowledge to help business energy users and households decide on the most appropriate tariff for their needs, with a number of excellent deals available.
Some of the cheapest domestic deals on the market were variable tariffs, which meant that if energy prices rose, so would your energy bills. Some fixed deals, on the other hand, were slightly more expensive but offered the security of knowing prices would remain the same for the duration of the contract.
Many households on fixed tariffs will see their energy bills leap significantly when their dual-fuel gas and electricity rates expire at the end of the month.
"There are lots of tariffs out there and it helps to have an expert explain the difference between them and help decide the best deal for your needs," Mr Morgan said.
"Large nunbers of fixed tariffs expire at the end of this month, so it's crucial that you stay in control of your energy bills now.
"With potential savings of hundreds of pounds, it makes financial sense to spend just a few moments comparing tariffs to see what you can save. And the easiest way to do this is to use our online service or give us a call.
"It's important to remember that this service is free and our prices are completely transparent."
The Energy Advice Line is a consumer champion and an independent price comparison and switching service for householders and small and medium sized businesses. The service enables consumers to quickly and simply compare electricity and gas prices, and to switch to the best available deal on the market.
The service also offers free advice and a contract management service, including alerts to remind business consumer users when their fixed-term energy contracts are about to end.
For further information, visit energyadviceline.org.uk