Switching energy suppliers may seem like a hassle, but it’s likely much easier than you think. The CreditKnowledge energy comparison tool finds the best available deals to help you switch gas and electricity suppliers quickly and straightforwardly. Whether you need a dual-fuel contract or are just looking for the best-value electricity tariff, simply enter your details, and you'll be presented with the best available deals to help keep your monthly outgoings down.
Whether you're a homeowner or a tenant, this guide will cover everything from timeframes to hidden charges and how much you could potentially save. Learn the important details you need to know to make an informed decision when switching energy contracts, and how much you could potentially save on energy bills. We'll also include several frequently asked questions and simple tips on reducing your energy usage.
Key Takeaways:
Switching energy suppliers can lower your bills, helping you avoid overpaying for gas and electricity.
The switching process is simple and usually completed within 5 working days, with no disruption to your energy supply.
Compare tariffs carefully, considering fixed vs variable rates, contract length, exit fees, and green energy options.
You can cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period, giving you flexibility if you change your mind.
Why Switch Energy Supplier?
The main reason to change energy suppliers is to avoid paying more than you need to on your monthly energy bills. With so much uncertainty surrounding global energy markets, UK energy rates have increased significantly in 2026, and the Ofgem energy price cap has also risen to £1,862 per year. Because of this, securing cheaper gas & electricity becomes even more of a priority to protect your finances, choosing between various tariffs, depending on your situation.
How Long Does It Take to Switch Energy Supplier?
There are options. You can choose to switch as soon as possible, which usually takes 5 working days, or to switch on a future date. Switching as soon as possible still means you'll have a 14-day cooling-off period after the initial 5 working days if you change your mind, whereas switching on a future date means you'll be switched 5 working days after the initial cooling-off period (19-21 days after you first apply). However, some suppliers will let you choose an exact date up to around 4 weeks after your application.
The process is extremely straightforward, and there will be no disruption to your energy supply. There is no reason for anyone to visit your home (unless a smart meter needs to be installed).
Switching Energy Supplier – Key Steps
Use the CreditKnowledge energy comparison tool:
The CreditKnowledge energy comparison tool takes the hassle out of switching energy suppliers by providing the very best deals available, based on the latest pricing and supplier offers. All you need to do is enter your postcode, select your address from the list, and fill in your details such as current supplier, energy usage (if known), current tariff, and how you usually pay.
Choose a New Energy Tariff
The next step is to choose your energy tariff from the list provided, selecting the best deal for you, considering contract length and exit fees, as well as the price. Some suppliers may also offer referral bonuses and other incentives that can offset the overall price of the contract.
Confirm
Once you're happy with your choice, follow the easy steps, and your new supplier will handle everything for you. There's no need to contact your existing supplier, and remember, you have a 14-day cooling-off period if you change your mind. When you receive confirmation from your new supplier that the switch has been completed, it's a good idea to take a meter reading, as this will be used to calculate the final bill with your previous supplier.
What Happens If I Change My Mind?
Whatever tariff you choose, you'll always have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date you first apply, allowing you to change your mind and return to your previous contract, avoiding any exit fees. To cancel the switch during this cooling-off period (before the switch has been completed), get in touch with your new supplier to stop the process, with no further action needed by you.
Typically, after 15 working days, you'll be switched to your new tariff, and the cooling-off period will have concluded.
The Different Types of Energy Tariff
The different tariffs depend on their specific payment structure and the type of energy plan and can typically be broken down as follows.
Energy Types:
Electricity-only
Gas-only
Dual fuel: a single bill for both your electricity and gas.
Economy 7: cheaper off-peak power for 7 hours overnight, with a more expensive rate during the day.
Economy 10: a multi-rate electricity plan offering 10 hours of cheaper, off-peak energy spread across 24 hours.
Green energy: your energy consumption equals the same amount of renewable energy purchased by the supplier, lowering the carbon footprint of your home.
Prepayment meter: pay-as-you-go energy, topped up via smart card or meter key.
Payment Structures:
Fixed rate: your energy rate remains the same throughout the year
Variable rate: your energy costs will alter every three months based on market changes
Fixed or Variable-Rate Energy Contracts
Fixed-rate Energy Contracts: The price per unit of gas and electricity will stay the same for the duration of your contract, avoiding any unexpected increases and allowing you to budget with certainty. The downside is that these contracts often carry early exit fees if you decide to change suppliers, and you can benefit from any sudden drops in the market.
Under Ofgem rules, suppliers cannot charge exit fees in the last 7 weeks of a fixed-term contract, meaning you won't need to pay a fee if you switch supplier within the last 49 days of your current fixed deal.
Variable-Rate Energy Contracts: Standard Variable Tariffs (SVTs) change every three months based on market conditions, meaning your energy costs can rise or fall based on global events and supply conditions. However, SVTs are not subject to exit fees.
Gas, Electricity, and Dual Fuel
Dual-fuel contracts provide the simplest way to manage your gas and electricity, especially as most UK homes use both gas and electricity. These contracts can also offer the highest potential savings. Of course, if your home is 100% electric, then you should choose an electricity-only contract. Meanwhile, gas-only contracts are ideal for homes with gas central heating that have a micro generation source or an off-grid setup for their electricity.
Hidden Energy Contract Charges and Fees
Standard Variable Tariffs (SVTs) have no fixed end date and therefore are not subject to exit fees. Alternatively, fixed-term contracts may incur exit fees, which can vary, if you switch before the last seven weeks of the contract's end date.
However, certain tariffs may not have any exit fees, so it is important to check the details on the supplier's website, the welcome pack sent to you when the contract began, or on your monthly bill. You can also call your current supplier directly to confirm.
Typically, your supplier will get in touch when your current energy deal is coming to an end (usually six weeks prior), giving you time to compare energy contracts before committing. It's a good idea to confirm exit fees before switching, as sometimes they can exceed the potential savings of switching
Comparing Energy Suppliers & Tariffs - Key Things to Consider
Whether a fixed-rate or standard variable-rate is better for your current situation.
Choose the cheapest unit rate and standing charges for your ideal contract length.
Do you require a dual-fuel contract, electricity-only, or gas-only?
Whether early exit fees on your current contract may cancel out the potential savings of switching suppliers.
If an Economy 7 or Economy 10 contract is a better choice based on your current usage patterns. These can be a good option for electric vehicle owners.
How much of your energy usage will be matched by renewable energy purchases by the supplier? Many suppliers off 100% green energy contracts, providing peace of mind to customers.
How to Reduce Energy Bills Further – 7 Quick Tips
1. Reduce the flow temperature of your boiler to 60°C
2. Turn your thermostat down by 1°C - 2°C.
3. Shorten shower times to lower water and energy usage.
4. Turn off radiators when rooms are not being used.
5. Wash laundry at 30°C and hang dry clothes when possible.
6. Seal any gaps around windows and doors using foam tape.
7. Turn off electronics at the wall socket instead of leaving them on standby.
FAQs:
Is it worth switching energy suppliers?
In most cases, yes, as switching energy suppliers can reduce your energy costs, provide better customer service, or give you access to tariffs that better suit your usage.
How far in advance can I switch energy suppliers?
You can usually arrange a switch at any time. The process typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the supplier and your circumstances.
Can I switch my supplier if I rent?
Yes, if you’re responsible for paying the energy bills, but if your landlord pays the bills or specifies the supplier in your tenancy agreement, you may need their permission.
Will my energy supply be interrupted when I switch suppliers?
No. Your gas and electricity supply should continue normally because only the billing and account management have changed.
Can I switch energy suppliers if I'm on a fixed-term tariff?
Yes, but your current supplier may charge an exit fee if you leave before the end of the fixed term. Check your tariff terms before switching.
Glossary:
Energy Tariff: The pricing plan that determines how much you pay for your energy usage, including standing charges and unit rates.
Fixed-Rate Tariff: An energy contract where unit rates are locked in for a set period, protecting customers from price increases.
Variable Tariff: A tariff where energy prices can rise or fall depending on market conditions and supplier pricing decisions.
Dual Fuel: A tariff where the same supplier provides both gas and electricity.
Standing Charge: A fixed daily fee that covers the cost of maintaining your energy connection and supplying energy to your home.
Exit Fee: A charge some suppliers apply if you leave a fixed-term tariff before the contract ends.
Cooling-Off Period: The time after agreeing to switch suppliers during which you can cancel without penalty.
CreditKnowledge is a credit broker, not a lender.
Editorial Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered advice. It is not intended to provide personalised recommendations or guarantees of any outcomes.
This content reflects general information at the time of publication and is not endorsed by any company. You should always consider your own circumstances and, where appropriate, seek independent advice before making decisions. Nothing in this content should be interpreted as a recommendation to take, or refrain from taking, any specific action.
Page Last Reviewed: 10/06/2026