For the past two years, consumers in the UK have been unable to switch energy suppliers due to a lack of competition amid high bills. However, news has recently emerged that switching between energy suppliers is expected to return later this year.
This means that you can start preparing to switch energy suppliers to potentially save money, access better customer service, and take advantage of renewable energy options.
In this blog post, we will discuss why it can be useful to switch energy suppliers, what factors to consider when preparing to switch, and all the steps you need to take before embarking on the switching process.
Why switch energy suppliers?
There are several reasons why consumers may want to switch energy suppliers. Firstly, switching energy suppliers can result in cost savings, which could be especially important to you if you’re currently struggling to deal with the cost of living crisis.
Secondly, switching energy suppliers can give consumers access to better customer service, as well as more flexible and innovative tariffs.
And finally, for people who are slightly more environmentally conscious, switching energy suppliers might allow you to access renewable energy options that help you reduce your carbon footprint.
Factors to consider when switching energy suppliers
Before switching energy suppliers, there are several factors for you to consider. Below are a few of the most important.
Price
One of the most important factors when switching energy suppliers is price. As consumers, we all want to ensure that we’re getting the best possible deal.
That said, it’s important to remember that the cheapest tariff may not always be the best option, as it may not provide the level of customer service you’re looking for, or be tailored to suit your usage needs.
Tariff structure
Another factor to consider when switching energy suppliers is the tariff structure.
You should look for tariffs that are easy to understand and that fit your energy usage habits. For example, if you use most of your energy during off-peak hours, you may want to consider a tariff that offers lower rates during those hours.
Level of customer service
Customer service is also an important factor to consider when switching energy suppliers.
Consumers should always research the customer service ratings of different energy suppliers before switching. That way, you can ensure that you will be able to get the help and support you need if you ever have any issues with your energy supply.
Steps to take before switching energy suppliers
Before switching energy suppliers, there are several steps that you can take to ensure a smooth and successful switch.
Do your research
Firstly, always research different energy suppliers and tariffs to find the best option for you.
There are several comparison websites that can help consumers compare different tariffs and suppliers, and they allow you to tailor your search in order to match you with a supplier that fits your individual circumstances.
Check your current contract
Before switching, you should also check your current contract for any exit fees or notice periods.
If there are exit fees or notice periods, you may need to wait until your contract is up before switching suppliers to avoid additional costs.
Consider your average energy usage
Finally, consumers should calculate their energy usage to ensure that they are choosing a tariff that meets their energy needs.
Consumers can use their energy bills to get an idea of their energy usage, and there are several online calculators that can help you get a more accurate picture of your energy usage before you commit to a particular tariff.
How to switch energy suppliers
Once you have researched different energy suppliers and tariffs, checked your current contract for any exit fees or notice periods, and calculated your energy usage, you’re ready to start the process of switching energy suppliers.
The process is relatively simple and can be done online or over the phone.
Pick your new provider
As mentioned previously, the first step is of course to find and compare tariffs from different energy suppliers and choose the supplier who offers the best deal for your situation.
Contact the new supplier
Once you’ve chosen a new energy supplier and tariff, you will need to contact the supplier and provide them with your details.
The new supplier will then contact the old supplier to arrange the switch.
Wait for the switch
It’s important to note that the switching process can take several weeks. During this time, your energy supply will not be interrupted.
The old supplier will continue to supply energy until the switch is complete, at which point the new supplier will take over.
It’s also worth noting that consumers in the UK have a 14-day cooling-off period after they switch energy suppliers, during which time they can change their mind and cancel the switch without incurring any costs.
Common problems when energy suppliers
While switching energy suppliers is a relatively simple process, there are some common problems that can arise.
Delays in the process
One of the most common problems is delays in the switching process. This can happen if there is a problem with the energy meter, or if the old supplier disputes the final bill.
You can avoid these delays by ensuring that your energy meter is in good working order and by providing accurate meter readings to both the old and new suppliers.
Incorrect meter readings
Another common problem is incorrect meter readings. This can result in the consumer being billed for more energy than they have actually used, or for less energy than they have actually used.
In order to get ahead of this, you should take regular meter readings and provide them to both the old and new suppliers.
Issues with the new supplier
Finally, some consumers may experience issues with their energy supply after switching suppliers. This could be due to problems with the energy meter, or with the energy supply itself.
With that in mind, you should ensure that your energy meter is in good working order before making the switch, and that the new supplier is aware of any issues you may have had with the energy supply.
Summary
Switching energy suppliers can be a great way to save money, access better customer service, and get an energy deal that better suits your habits. However, it’s important to be prepared before switching in order to ensure a smooth and successful process.
Consumers should research different energy suppliers and tariffs, check their current contract for any exit fees or notice periods, calculate their energy usage, and take the time to understand the switching process.
By following these steps, you can take advantage of the reopening of the energy market in the UK, and switch to a new energy supplier that meets your needs while saving you some money.
