Underpaying then being trapped

libra10

We are in a similar position of owing (about £200) with Eon, however they have had regular readings throughout the year as they fitted a Smart meter. The monthly DD has never been increased during this time.

We were already Eon customers and agreed the tariff we were offered, as we were told we would save over £100 throughout the year.

Admittedly the weather has been bitterly cold through Spring and heating has been used more, however I wouldn't expect it to have cost so much more.

Each week I take meter readings and enter on a spreadsheet, and can easily check how much energy is being used.

Luckily we are in a position where we can pay the shortfall, and we will probably look for a cheaper tariff when the fixed term ends.

Fire_Fox

jwh.... wrote: »

Why do all the energy firms offer low payment plans for 12 months knowing you won't be paying enough for the energy that you would use. They know that when people are in arrears there will be less chance of being able to leave the supplier. I started off paying £50 per month, then after 12 months it went up to £70 per month and that still wasn't enough to pay it all off. I cant afford to pay a lump sum so I have started to pay £90. The big energy companies know people will be stuck with them due to being unable to pay off arrears. Then they can put the prices up whenever they want meaning it will become harder to leave. If no one had arrears then they would be competing, and that would mean cheaper gas and electricity.

It's the bill payer's responsibility to check their bills, read the meters regularly, pass readings to the suppliers. Most people get into arrears because they ignore estimated bills and don't bother to keep an eye on their usage, and whinge like mad if they get into credit. It's not only the supplier's fault.

Personally I am a very low user and am generally in credit.

undaunted

It appears that you may be one of the few here with the ability to recognise it but I think you answered your own question personally. Ie they like a bit of arrears and you not being able to switch if they think they can get away with it