Now’s the time to switch and save!

Lock in a cheaper fixed tariff before October to really make the savings count – just imagine what you could do with that extra money instead of giving it away to your supplier!

It’s easy to compare prices on an Ofgem-accredited price comparison site but you’ll need the following details to hand:

1. Your annual gas and/or electricity usage.

Look for your total annual spend or the amount of kWh you used on your energy bill or annual statement. Use this glossary to help you understand the complicated terms on your bill. If you have a smart meter in-home display, check your historical usage and add up the monthly figures for the last year. You can also ask your supplier directly.

2. The name of your tariff.

This will be shown on your bills, statements and smart meter displays. If your plan is called “Standard” or “Evergreen” you’re likely paying more than you should for energy.

3. Your payment method.

This might be by direct debit, by making payments after receiving a bill or top up as you go (known as prepayment or PAYG). If you have alternate arrangements, like Fuel Direct where payments are deducted directly from benefits, you may need a bit more support to ensure a switch goes smoothly. Contact Southampton Healthy Homes for advice.

How to compare

You can select filters on your search, for example you can chose just to look at green tariffs or for suppliers who offer the £140 Warm Home Discount. When you search make sure you choose to view plans that require switching directly through the supplier to compare the whole market.

Potential barriers

If you find a cheaper deal with another supplier, check if your current energy contract has an early exit fee. You won’t have to pay this fee if you’re in the last 42 days of your contract.

It’s important to read the small print before switching as some tariffs have certain requirements such as bundling your energy, phone and broadband.

Common barriers to switching are if you have a debt or a smart prepayment meter. Don’t let this put you off though as it is often still possible to switch.

If all goes well, your switch should complete in 2-3 weeks. For further support finding cheaper energy deals and free advice to make sure your switch is hassle-free, contact Southampton Healthy Homes.