To switch or not to switch?

Ixel

Hi all,
I'm hoping someone here can offer me some valuable advice. I'm currently with EDF Energy who I've been with for many years on 'Standard (variable)' paying quarterly with cash. I don't pay by direct debit due to the problem of varying amounts being taken which can sometimes eventually lead to paying too much. I also prefer to pay the bill at my own pace. Lately I've noticed a sharp increase in the electricity tariff so I'm strongly considering the possibility of moving to a cheaper option (provider). I'm also on dual fuel and have had warm home discount with EDF Energy.

Now, my question is whether to switch or not. I've looked a little into it and it seems like it's a gamble switching. For example, I don't want to find myself in a situation where the customer service is far worse than the customer service I've had from EDF Energy. I also have a smart meter from EDF Energy, so not sure if that will switch over and remain 'smart' with the new provider.

There's also the question of whether it's worth switching over to PAYG or remaining on quarterly bills not paid via direct debit (if the tariff isn't that much different between the two choices) and whether the smart meter I've currently got actually supports PAYG. For example, I've read about OVO and how you can top up via mobile app and such, no need for a meter key and PayPoint machine to top up at.

Sorry if the above seems a bit confusing or a lot of detail. Any advice is appreciated.

molerat

EDF have fixed tariffs available on quarterly payment at around 10% cheaper than their variable. The same tariff on monthly DD will save you around 17% on the variable. Monthly DD is nothing to be scared of if you provide regular readings. In the 20 or so years I have been paying with DD I have not been excessively in credit and EDF have been very quick to pay back any excess - they even paid my daughter back 75p as that is what they considered her account to be in excess credit by !

If you move away from EDF your meter will no longer be smart !

House_Martin

EDF are just about top of the table when I had a quick look on UKpower.co.uk with their latest "blue " price dual fuel one year fix..Exactly the same customer service..There is no gamble just that you will probably be as much as £150 a year better off getting off "silly " price standard/variable rip off s.
Just have to make sure you get the direct debit spot on by imputing the correct yearly usage in kwh ..EDF know it , so get it off them then switch via Cheapenergyclub..Even though you are with them you may well get the cashback deal too..Its a good tariff , its called "online saver Aug 18 "