As colder months approach, households across the UK are preparing for higher gas bills. With around 85% of homes relying on gas central heating and radiators, the cost of keeping warm is a major concern this winter. Global wholesale price pressures and the October Ofgem price cap rise mean families are bracing for higher bills, even before the coldest weather arrives.

Rising costs of winter heating

Gas remains central to the UK's energy system. Most households depend on it not only for heating but also for hot water, meaning colder weather directly translates into higher consumption. During December and January, gas demand typically surges as radiators and boilers work harder.

Even though the Ofgem price cap sets a maximum rate suppliers can charge, the cap is reviewed every three months. This means households will continue to feel the impact of global wholesale shifts. For many, winter 2025 could be one of the most expensive heating seasons in years.

Households looking for savings

In response, more families are turning to independent platforms to compare energy prices and secure more affordable tariffs. These services allow consumers to view fixed and variable deals side by side, making it easier to decide whether to lock in rates before further increases or remain on a capped variable tariff.

Dual fuel bundles, time-of-use tariffs, and renewable energy options are also being considered by households keen to limit costs while keeping their heating on through the coldest months.

Managing usage through central heating

Alongside switching suppliers, many families are rethinking how they use their central heating. Practical steps include:

  • Setting thermostats a few degrees lower.

  • Only heating rooms that are in regular use.

  • Using radiator thermostats to control individual spaces.

  • Bleeding radiators to improve efficiency.

While these measures help, they cannot offset wholesale price increases entirely. This is why securing the right tariff is becoming a priority for many households before winter bills begin to climb.

Expert view: Tim Bailey, Free Price Compare

Tim Bailey, Head of Partnerships at Free Price Compare, explained why households should take action now:

“Winter energy bills in the UK are closely tied to gas prices and radiator use. As soon as colder weather arrives, demand surges and bills rise. While efficiency measures are useful, the biggest savings often come from switching supplier and finding the right tariff. In the same way that people shop around when they compare car prices, it makes sense to compare energy deals before usage peaks. The earlier households act, the better chance they have of avoiding unnecessary costs.”

Fixed versus variable tariffs

This winter, one of the biggest decisions households face is whether to remain on a variable tariff linked to the Ofgem price cap or move to a fixed deal.

  • Variable tariffs offer flexibility but rise whenever the cap increases.

  • Fixed tariffs provide stability for 12 to 24 months but can be more expensive if wholesale prices fall.

The right option depends on usage, risk tolerance, and whether households expect prices to climb further during the heating season.

Learning from other markets

The approach households take to energy mirrors how they handle other essential costs. Across the UK, many families are turning to energy comparison sites to compare gas prices review tariffs, and track their energy use. Just as this has become routine for electricity, comparing dual fuel deals is now a normal part of household budgeting.

Technology has made this process far easier, allowing families to review options quickly and complete a switch in minutes. For many, the process of comparing tariffs has shifted from a once-every-few-years task to a regular part of household planning.

Taking control this winter

UK households cannot control global gas markets, but they can control how they respond. By comparing tariffs, switching where it makes sense, and managing their radiator use more effectively, families can reduce the financial strain of higher winter bills.

This winter, taking proactive steps could make the difference between manageable heating costs and a season of financial stress.