how to get the best out of gas and elec bills

Airmike23

1st post, for all people who want to save money, as you have probably already seen over the years on this site, least successful way of doing a change of supply (cos) is thru door to door, or instore rep's. The reps are of course on commission and not really interested in who you are with at mo for bills, and what tariff you have because the maxim "We're cheaper than your current supplier", is what they hope will turn heads.

Everyone wants to save, usually you will find contacting your current provider and asking what tariff you have (if not already aware) and if they can move you on to another plan that will save against current spend, save the hassle of a cos.

Anyone on economy 7 (e7) meter, particularly if you have gas central heating and are paying e7 day and night unit rates, using less than 35% of electric at night rates will be paying more than one rate billing (all companies generally off 1 rate and e7 versions of tariffs), this does not require a meter change just different unit rates applied to bill, and can save £100+per annum (dependent on consumption).

Be realistic about your monthly direct debit payments, you might want to pay £50pm, but if you monthly average is for arguements sake £90pm then set the dd at that amount otherwise debit will build and the power co will advise you of a dd increase and put it to an amount that covers actual consumption whilst typically clearing the outstanding balance in 3-4 months, could mean alomst a triple in amount paid monthly.

Biggest savings are found making the move from paper bills to online billing as all power companies offer bigger discounts with these tariffs.

Be aware that capping, fixed prices, discounted prices, and some online tariffs for some power comapnies come with an early termination charge, typically £60 (varies co to co), also with fixed and capped rates you're paying a higher unit rate now on the gamble that prices will go up in the near future, and yours will stay and protected rate, so can sometimes not work out that good value.

Comparisons done on annual consumption are most accurate way for you to find out if a company will save or not, your monthly dd may not accurately reflect actual cost if in credit or debit by alot as payments will be set accordingly.

A lot I know, hope it's useful!