If & When To Switch From Npower

Maxes_Party_Planner

Just posted a message on someone else's thread about the persistent trouble we have with npower applying the dual fuel discount to our bills. It's been going on for a few years now and considering the trouble and length of time it takes us to get it applied, we're now considering whether we should just switch. The problem is, we prefer fixed tariffs but npower (based on usage figures) always seem to come out as least expensive (it stopped being ‘cheapest’ years ago!)


We’d also have to consider that our current tariff (GOFIX2) expires 31 July but our direct debit anniversary is August so…


In order to get the 2010/2011 DFD discount we'd need to stay with npower until the 16th August and I'd presume we'd need to go on to their standard rates for those 16 days but would this be our only option?


If we decided to switch, but only after we'd qualified for the next DFD, when would we need to start the ball rolling / make our intentions known? How long is this process likely to take?


Assuming the account is in credit, how do npower issue the DFD to those who are switching away from them?


Any comments would be much appreciated.

DirectDebacle

As far as npower gas supply goes, because of their seasonal weighting, the months of May-Sept are the cheapest. If you start the switching process after Aug 16th then the switch will probably complete early October meaning you move away from them just as the punitive tier 1 rates kick in. Going on their standard tariff from 1st August until the switch completes is likely to be more cost effective for you than missing out on the annual DD.

Maxes_Party_Planner

Thanks for that - hadn't even thought about the seasonal weighting.

So I take it there's no point in making any intention to switch known beforehand and in my case the switch can only be initiated after 16th August?

Thanks again

davidgmmafan

You could try using the old price hold, I reckon its worth a punt in a situation like this, but the timing is the difficult part.