As the evenings get darker and the temperatures start to dip, many households will be preparing for higher energy bills, especially with the energy price cap increasing from 1 October.
While rising energy costs can feel worrying, the good news is that just a few small changes can make a real difference.
Natasha Cummings – South East manager for the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) – shares five helpful ways to stay on top of your energy costs and make your money go further this autumn and winter.
Understand your energy bill
Energy bills can be confusing, but understanding yours is one of the best ways to stay in control of your costs.
Taking a few minutes to check your latest statement can help you understand exactly what you're paying for and spot anything that doesn't look right.
If you have a meter, it's also worth submitting a reading before the colder weather arrives.
This can help make sure you're being billed for the energy you've actually used and give you a clearer picture of your household costs as heating use starts to increase.
If you're not sure what all the numbers and terms mean, the Energy Saving Trust has guidance on understanding your bill and taking accurate meter readings.
Consider ways to save energy at home
You don't have to make massive changes to save money on your energy bills.
Often, it's the small habits that make the biggest difference over time.
Simple actions like closing your curtains when it gets dark, using draught excluders to keep warm air in and switching lights and electrical items off when you leave a room can all help reduce energy use.
Running your washing machine or dishwasher on an eco setting and only using them when you have a full load can help too.
The savings from individual changes might seem small, but together they can add up over the course of the winter.
For more practical tips on managing your energy costs, visit MoneyHelper's guide on how to reduce your energy bills.
Review your regular bills
Autumn is the perfect time to give all your household bills a quick health check.
It's worth checking if you can get cheaper energy bills by switching supplier or tariff (the deal you’re on).
It's also worth contacting your energy supplier if you're worried about keeping up with payments.
They may be able to offer support tailored to your circumstances, such as flexible payment arrangements, repayment plans or access to support schemes.
If you've fallen behind on bills, seeking free debt advice early can help you understand your options and get back on track.
While energy costs are often the main focus, it's also worth looking at other regular expenses too, such as broadband, mobile phone contracts, water bills, insurance and subscriptions.
Ask yourself whether you're still getting value for money and whether a better deal might be available elsewhere.
Saving a few pounds across several bills can quickly add up and help offset higher heating costs.
If you're looking for more ideas to reduce your household outgoings, MoneyHelper offers guidance on finding savings across a range of everyday bills.
Check what support is available
If you're finding it difficult to keep up with energy costs and other essential bills, remember that help is available.
You could be entitled to benefits, grants or other forms of financial support that can help ease pressure on your household budget.
Even if you've checked before, it's worth taking another look.
Changes to your income, health or family circumstances can affect what support you're eligible for.
MoneyHelper offers free guidance and our Benefits calculator can help you understand what benefits you might be entitled to and where to go for further support.
You may also be eligible to join your energy supplier's Priority Services Register if you're older, have a disability, long-term health condition or need extra support.
This can provide additional assistance, particularly during power cuts or other emergencies.
Use free budgeting tools
When costs start to rise, having a clear picture of your finances can help you feel more in control.
A budget doesn't have to involve spreadsheets or complicated calculations.
MoneyHelper's free Budget Planner can help you see exactly what's coming in and going out each month.
Taking a little time to plan ahead now can make managing winter costs feel much less daunting and give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Visit MoneyHelper.org.uk for more everyday money management support.
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