miriam

keltob

I only use gas for central heating . All other usage (including water heating) is electric. How do I choose a new energy supplier please. Is it better that I choose one which has a cheaper electricity cost? How do I do this without trawling through every company in order to get the best price

mac.d

If you know your kwh usage figures for the last year for both gas & electric, its simply a case of putting those figures into a price comparison website along with your address, and it'll tell you the cheapest prices available to you.

Compare gas and electricity tariffs: Ofgem-accredited price comparison sites

Just be aware that most comparison sites base their savings on what you will pay at the end of your current deal/fix (so the more expensive variable tariff), although sites like MSE own energy club, do give you the option to base it on your current prices.

Gerry1

Once you know your annual consumption figures based on actual meter readings, not estimated readings, decide whether you want a fixed deal (possibly with exit fees) or if you're happy with a variable tariff that lets you switch without penalty (but may suddenly increase in price).

Make sure you click on the Show Me All Suppliers / Show Whole Market button or suchlike. If you don't, most sites will default to those that pay them commission so you'll miss the best deals. Ignore the alleged savings, just compare the annual amounts.

Dual fuel isn't always cheaper, so also try electricity only and gas only. Monthly direct debit is usually the cheapest way to pay.

Needless to say, register with the MSE Cheap Energy Club so that you'll be notified if cheaper deals are introduced. Some users report poor service with some companies, so check those ratings as well.

Remember that some suppliers take the first DD payment the moment they supply you, and the old company can take six weeks to refund your credit, so don't run your bank account down too low...

Finally, if you have an traditional meter don't assume you can't have a 'smart meter' tariff. If one looks attractive, look very carefully at the Terms & Conditions, not just the blurb. You may well find that you have to agree only to be contacted about a smart meter rather than have one installed.

macman

Even with only your CH running off gas, the vast majority of your annual kWh usage will be for heating, up to as much as 80% of the total.
PS: if you have the option of using gas for your hot water, then do so: it's a third of the price per kWh.