Switch would be half DD

MrsKEA

Hi,
I'm trying to switch energy provider (currently Scottish Power) and using USwitch and my last 12 months usage information the monthly DD calculated is almost half of what I'm paying at the moment :eek:
Does that sound right? I will call Scottish Power tomorrow/Monday to find out how they've calculated my DD. I'm in a debit position with them so maybe that's why my DD is so high?
Totally confused about this now

CashStrapped

A direct debit amount is meaningless as an indicator as to actual cost of energy.

A direct debit is just a way to spread the predicted cost. The prediction is probably just very incorrect. It is nothing to do with what you actually pay when your bill is produced.

Just because a company has quoted half the amount in DD does not mean your tariff is half as much.

Look a the tariff!

You should compare using your annual KWH figures. This will give you a better and more accurate indication as to the annual cost.

Robin9

Do your own sums.

Take your actual consumption and use the rates and standing charges - don't forget VAT - for your existing and possible new supplier.

MrsKEA

Thank you for your quick replies.
I did use acutal kWh usage for the last 12 months to get quotes on uSwitch.

I have gone through 2015 and 2016 usage and payments and think I've paid £200 more than we've used. However, SP have shown a debit balance all year (starting at £800 to now £200).

Does anyone have any tips on how to approach this? I was thinking of calling and asking how SP have calculated the debit balance.
I'd also like to switch but am concerned that if I do before this debit position is sorted I'd end up with more problems.

CashStrapped

What is your earliest actual meter reading with SP? What is your latest reading? Were you on the same tariff for that whole period?

What was your tariff?
What is the tariff your compared with?

Also ensure the comparison site is not assuming you are going onto a standard tariff for the next 12 months. That can hugely distort savings. Ensure you select to compare against your current tariff only.

cutho

Ring Scottish Power they have fixed rates which work out alot cheaper no charges for moving to different tarrif worth a try I always check my bill every month and it tells me if I on there best deal they have I on fixed till June 2017 I must check as I think they have a fixed till Dec 2017.