If you’re concerned that switching energy supplier will be a long and difficult process, there’s no need to panic.
It’s actually a lot easier than you may think. Check out our step by step guide below showing you how to switch energy supplier and start saving money.
What details do I need to switch energy supplier?
To switch energy providers with a comparison site, you need your postcode, a copy of your most recent energy bill and around 10 to 15 minutes of free time.
Anyone who wants to pay their energy bills via Direct Debit will also need their bank account details to hand.
This is usually the cheapest way to pay for gas and electricity.
If you’re not able to locate your most recent energy bill or annual statement, don’t worry.
Comparison sites can estimate how much gas and electricity you consume based on answers to a few simple questions regarding your household.
Step 1: Enter your postcode
The first thing to know is that prices for electricity and gas are set regionally.
Additionally, some providers only target customers in specific areas.
By entering your postcode, you will only be shown all the deals that are available to you.
Step 2: Enter your energy usage
The comparison site will need to know how much energy you are consuming, this will help them identify how much you could actually be saving by switching providers or tariffs.
You will be able to find your usage details on your annual energy statement or your most recent bill.
Don’t worry if you don’t have this information to hand, simply answer a few questions about your household and you will be able to obtain an estimate of your usage.
Step 3: Choose a new energy tariff
Finding the right tariff can be confusing, especially when you consider the fact that there are more than 50 energy suppliers serving the UK market.
Fortunately, energy comparison sites can filter these by available tariffs and sort by price.
This will help you quickly see how much you are likely to save by switching.
You also have the option to further narrow down your results to factors that are important to you.
For example, you may be looking for a green energy tariff, one without an exit fee or a longer-term contract.
Step 4: Confirm your energy switch
Confirming your switch will be the final step in changing energy suppliers.
To achieve this, you will need to provide your contact information such as address and your bank details.
This will allow your new supplier to set up a Direct Debit.
The process is now complete.
The comparison site will now put your existing supplier and your new supplier in contact with each other, allowing them to organise the switchover date.
What happens after I have switched?
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about what you can expect when making the switch.
Will my energy supply be interrupted during the switch?
No. It doesn’t matter which provider you are with. Your gas and electricity supply will be the same as it was previously.
The only thing that changes is the firm that sends you the bill and the unit rate you will be charged.
Your supply will not experience any interruption, no one needs to visit your home, unless you are having a smart meter installed.
How long does the switching process take?
Although the energy comparison steps can take around 10 to 15 minutes. The full switch should take up to 21 days.
You will also have a two-week cooling off period to change your mind.
Remember that your supply will not be interrupted at any point whatsoever.
Will I hear from my new energy supplier?
Your new provider will send you a welcome pack and letter within a few days of the switch.
This will explain the terms you have agreed to including details of your new tariff.
You will need to provide a meter reading to them when they request it.
This will be sent to your previous supplier to help them calculate your final bill.
Will I be charged twice?
You will not be billed twice. The two companies agree a switchover date to ensure you aren’t billed twice.
For added peace of mind, once the switch is complete, you can cancel your Direct Debit with your old supplier.
What if I change my mind?
If you are not satisfied, there is a 14-day cooling off period.
Contact your new supplier and inform them that you no longer want to switch your supplier.
They will be able to manage the cancellation process for you without penalty during this period.
To conclude, comparing and switching energy suppliers is relatively straightforward.
It takes very little effort on your part and your new supplier will manage the transition for you.