Energy customers on fixed rates are being warned to act fast to avoid a shock when their price deal ends.

Thousands of people signed up to fixed gas and electricity prices a year or more ago to protect ­themselves from rising ­energy prices.

But three tariffs from the “big six” energy providers come to an end next month and customers could be hit by a big hike in costs when they do.

Comparison site Moneysupermarket.com says the ScottishPower fixed dual fuel deal costs an average user £1,180 a year, £110 less than its standard tariff. EDF and British Gas customers will see their bills hiked by about £59 and £29 a year ­respectively on standard tariffs.

Swapping tariffs can take several weeks so now is the time to act.

Scott Byrom, utilities ­manager at Moneysupermarket.com, said: “Timing is crucial when looking for a new energy product.

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