'Individuals looking for cheap electricity and gas should take steps to ensure they have good control over their heating systems.
This is according to a survey by time switch maker Sangamo, which revealed the average home spends £122 more than needed on energy due to a lack of this.
Overall, this costs the UK £3.2 billion a year, the research claimed.
Managing director at the firm Mark Robinson stated: "The home energy controls gap exists because many homes lack one or more of the three basics - a heating programmer, room thermostats or thermostatic radiator valves."
As central heating and hot water account for 83 per cent of domestic energy costs, educating consumers about how to cut this expense could make a large difference, Sangamo continued.
Last week, it was estimated by E.ON that individuals living in rented accommodation may also find it difficult to get cheap electricity and gas bills due to a lack of efficiency measures.
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