Introduction
Are you looking to save money on your energy bills? Switching your energy supplier or tariff can be a great way to reduce costs and find a plan that suits your needs. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to make the switch, from checking your current tariff to understanding your options and making the final change. If you need assistance along the way, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to help. With Contend, you can easily navigate the process and resolve any legal questions you may have, ensuring you get the best energy deal possible.
If you’re looking to save some money on your gas or electricity bills, switching your energy supplier or changing your tariff could be a smart move. An energy tariff is essentially a pricing plan that your supplier uses for your gas or electricity. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to make the switch and what to consider.
Step 1: Check Your Current Tariff
Before you can switch, you need to know what tariff you’re currently on. You can find this information on your latest bill or by logging into your online account with your energy supplier.
Types of Tariffs:
- Standard Variable Tariff: If you’re on this type of tariff, you can switch at any time.
- Fixed Tariff: If you’re on a fixed tariff, you can switch if you have 49 days or less left on your contract. If you have more than 50 days remaining, you may have to pay an exit fee to leave early. It’s worth contacting your supplier to find out the specifics.
If you’re considering switching but might incur an exit fee, weigh the cost of that fee against the potential savings you could achieve by switching.
Step 2: Understand Your Options
When thinking about switching, consider what type of tariff would work best for you. Do you want:
- A flexible tariff that lets you switch easily?
- An environmentally friendly tariff?
- The cheapest option available?
- A tariff designed for electric vehicles?
It’s a good idea to compare different tariffs and ask your supplier about their deals. You can find useful price comparison websites here.
Step 3: Check Your Meter Compatibility
Before switching, ensure that your gas or electric meter is compatible with the new tariff.
If You Have a Smart Meter:
- Smart Mode: Check if your smart meter will still work in smart mode after the switch, meaning it can automatically send readings to your new supplier.
- Prepayment Mode: If your smart meter is in prepayment mode, you’ll need to choose a prepayment tariff. Not all suppliers offer these.
- Time of Use Tariff: If you have a meter that charges different rates at different times, confirm that your new supplier can accommodate this.
If You Don’t Have a Smart Meter:
Your new supplier might require you to have a smart meter installed before switching. If you’re currently on a prepayment meter, you might want to consider switching to a credit meter for more options.
Step 4: Make the Switch
Once you’ve decided on a new supplier, you can initiate the switch either online or over the phone. The good news is that you don’t need to inform your current supplier; your new supplier will handle that for you.
Important Points:
- You’ll have a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can change your mind without any fees.
- When you switch, take a meter reading on the day of the switch to ensure you’re only charged for energy used after the switch.
Final Bill and Refunds:
After switching, your old supplier will send you a final bill within six weeks. If you’ve overpaid, they must refund you within ten working days.
Step 5: What If You Change Your Mind?
If you want to cancel your switch, inform your new supplier as soon as possible. If you haven’t switched yet, they can stop the process. If you have switched but are still within your cooling-off period, you can cancel and discuss your options with your new supplier.
Step 6: Delays and Compensation
If your switch is delayed beyond the expected timeframe (usually within five working days), you may be entitled to compensation. If the delay is on your supplier’s part, they should automatically pay you £30 as compensation.
Getting Further Help
If you have any questions or need more help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Contend’s legal expert chat. Their highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems.
If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, check if you qualify for any grants or benefits that can help with your costs.
Switching your energy supplier or tariff can be a straightforward process that may save you money. Just make sure to do your research and choose the option that best fits your needs!
For more info, check out some of our related articles:
- Switch and Save: Guide to Changing Energy Suppliers for UK Small Businesses
- Switch Your Energy Supplier: Save Money & Go Green in the UK
- Cut UK Energy Bills: Top Tips for a More Efficient Home
- Smart Meter Installation in the UK: A Guide to Saving Energy
- UK Energy Tariffs Guide: Save Money & Choose Wisely
