Price comparison websites and consumer watchdogs are urging homeowners to take control of their energy spending ahead of predicted price hikes from the UK's Big Six energy suppliers.

October sees the first big supplier - SSE - raising energy prices by nine per cent, and price comparison service uSwitch.com reports many are concerned that E.ON - which this year pledged not to raise energy prices - could increase customer fuel bills at the start of 2013.

And it's thought other power companies could follow suit, introducing price rises in the middle of winter when fuel bills are typically at their highest.

Energy expert at uSwitch.com Tom Lyon said: "The fact that E.ON, the only supplier to guarantee a price freeze for the rest of 2012, is unable to extend this commitment into 2013 spells bad news for consumers. With SSE's price hike about to take effect and other suppliers appearing to be edging in the same direction, consumers should be bracing themselves for a round of winter price hikes."

And the expert went on to note that consumers should try to strike a fixed-price tariff deal or shop around for cheaper services or those suppliers that offer cashback upon switching.

However, homeowners should also do what they can to save energy around the home. As well as introducing simple changes to the way they use power - such as turning off light switches when not in use and only incrementally turning the heating up when cold - they can also introduce physical changes and install energy-saving solutions into their household to defuse the spiralling cost of winter.

For heating, many energy-saving advocates advise the primary change to make is that of your insulation - ensure that cavity walls are filled in and that no draughts are running through your home, especially from the attic.

And when it comes to lighting, LED light bulbs is the best way to save money. The long life of the average LED lighting fixture means whatever room you install your bulbs in, they will last an average of 20 years - returning regular savings over the life of the bulb.