How to Compare Energy Prices Online

Comparing gas and electricity prices is one of the best ways to ensure you’re not paying over the odds for your energy bill. Fuel bills keep rising year over year and if you haven’t made the switch, you’re likely on a standard variable tariff, an energy provider’s most expensive rate.

It’s now easier than ever to compare energy prices online. Utility Saving Expert has streamlined the whole process, and it shouldn’t take you more than 15 minutes to compare tariffs and switch to a cheaper supplier. By switching to a cheaper gas and electricity rate, your household could be saving hundreds of pounds each year, money that can go towards more important things.

Here are the steps you need to take to compare and switch energy suppliers:

Enter your postcode and select your address
Enter details about your current energy usage and who supplies it
You’ll be presented with a list of suitable deals which can be sorted by price
Select a tariff that suits your requirements
Confirm your selection and proceed to payment
Sit back and relax. You will now be switched over within 21 days

Why should I compare energy prices?

If you haven’t switched your energy tariff in recent years, there’s a good chance that you’re not on the best deal available to you. By switching, you could be saving over £400 per year on your household energy bills. There isn’t one supplier who will always be the cheapest. So you’ll need to carry out a comparison each time your current deal is due to expire. This will ensure you don’t end up on a standard variable tariff, usually a provider’s most expensive price plan. It’s also worth noting that you may not actually need to switch to a new supplier to get a cheaper rate. Your existing supplier may actually have a cheaper tariff available for you to switch to.

Who is the cheapest energy provider?

Each energy provider’s pricing will differ by region. Your monthly or annual bill will also depend on how much gas and electricity you consume. Firms target different types of households, meaning if your usage is high, some companies may offer a lower rate. Alternatively, those that don’t use much power may get a better deal with a different supplier.

Do I have to buy my gas and electricity from the same supplier?

No, you do not have to purchase your gas and electricity supply from the same provider. You can choose to compare gas only, electricity only and if you so wish; duel fuel tariffs. The option you select will depend on your current needs.

In the UK, nearly four million households do not use gas for their heating. Just over 50% of all non-gas households use electricity as their primary heating source, according to data from industry regulator, Ofgem.

What details do I need to compare energy prices?

To compare energy prices, you’ll need your postcode, address and your most recent energy bill. If you don’t have a bill to hand, you can enter the amount of gas and electricity you use on average. Contact and payment information will be needed to complete the switch, this will allow your new provider to take over your energy account.

What happens once the switch has been completed?

Once the process has been completed, your new energy supplier will contact your old supplier and agree a switching date. After this, you will be sent a welcome pack from your new gas and electricity provider. Your supply will not experience an interruption whatsoever.

How long does the whole process take?

Comparing and switching gas and electricity providers shouldn’t take more than 10 to 15 minutes. You will also have a 14-day cooling off period in case you change your mind. The actual switching process should be completed within 21 days.

Why are my bills so high?

Your energy bills will be determined by how much gas and electricity you consume. However, there are other reasons for a higher price such as:

Your fixed rate tariff has expired and you’ve been moved over to a standard variable rate tariff.
Your energy supplier has increased their prices.
Your bills are based on estimated meter readings which aren’t always 100% accurate.
Your home isn’t energy efficient and energy is being wasted.

I’m on a prepayment meter, can I still switch?

Yes, you can still compare and switch your tariff even if you’re on a prepayment meter. You should also consider moving away from using a prepayment meter and replacing this with a credit meter if possible, as you’ll be able to access lower rate tariffs.

To conclude, once your current deal is due to expire, you should compare energy tariffs and switch to a cheaper deal. The whole transition period has been simplified and takes very little effort on your part.