Energy customers should switch gas tariffs to fixed-rate deals in order to save money.
Mark Todd, director of energy comparison site Energyhelpline.com, said now that British Gas has raised its prices, other energy suppliers will follow suit.
He noted that switching to a three-year fixed-rate package could save domestic energy users around £643 between now and 2014.
Mr Todd commented: "Switching to a long fixed rate energy tariff now allows householders to avoid price rises for up to 3 years. The savings doing this are enormous however consumer have to act fast."
He added: "Many customers calling our switching line are very upset. They feel that prices just keep going up and are fearful about not being able to heat their homes this winter."
British Gas' hike will add £190 to the average annual bill.
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