Rising household bills continue to put pressure on millions of families, but experts say a few simple changes could help homeowners keep warm and save money all year round. New research from Utility Warehouse has found that half of UK households say their stress begins the moment they open their utility bills, while almost as many admit they sometimes avoid opening them altogether.

With the average monthly bill now reaching around £120, there are straightforward, low-cost ways to take control of energy use and claw back valuable pounds from monthly payments.

One of the easiest and most effective measures involves giving a hot water cylinder a little extra insulation. Fitting an insulating jacket around the tank could save around £40 a year in heating costs and cut carbon emissions by more than 110kg of CO2, according to experts at Utility Warehouse.

The jacket, which should be at least 80mm thick and meet British Standard specifications, helps trap heat that would otherwise escape. For households still using an older, thinner 25mm covering, upgrading to the thicker version offers an instant efficiency boost. "Think of it as giving your boiler a cosy winter jumper," said a Utility Warehouse spokesperson.

"It's a small, one-off change that pays for itself within a year and keeps your hot water warmer for longer."

It is not just the cold that unsettles homeowners. The Utility Warehouse study found that 46% of people have been caught out by unexpected costs in the small print, while 26% say their bills are confusing or difficult to understand.

For anyone turning up the thermostat, experts warn that much of that warmth may be escaping through cracks and gaps. Draught-proofing doors, windows and letterboxes is an easy, inexpensive fix that can make a noticeable difference, saving another £40 a year on heating bills in the average home.

"Warm air escaping through gaps is like money flying out of your door," says UW. "Sealing those tiny spaces can make your rooms feel instantly cosier and reduce wasted heat."

Although smart meters are now installed in around 67% of homes, only 22% of people regularly check them, meaning many are missing the chance to spot wasteful habits and cut unnecessary energy use.

Savings do not always come from major upgrades. Even small adjustments to everyday routines can make a measurable impact. Using your dishwasher more efficiently, for example, can trim annual energy spend.

Running it only when full, rather than half-empty, and switching to an economy programme could save around £12 a year, according to Utility Warehouse. "Households can save without sacrificing comfort," says UW. "It's about being conscious, not cold. Every bit of energy you save is money back in your pocket."

For those tired of juggling multiple providers and payment dates, Utility Warehouse claims to offer a simpler solution. Customers can bundle energy, broadband, mobile and insurance into one account, with a single monthly payment covering everything.

According to UW: "It means fewer statements, fewer surprises and no mid-contract price hikes, helping customers stay in control of their household finances."

New customers who switch can also receive up to £150 credit on their Utility Warehouse Cashback Card, which lets them earn cashback on everyday spending and use it to offset future bills. "No one should feel weighed down by household expenses," says UW.