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Guide to switching supplier

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You could save hundreds on your energy bills by switching energy suppliers

Households that switched to a different dual fuel tariff with Which? Switch between 1 June 2010 and 31 May 2011 typically saved £237 a year. 

See how much you could save by switching to a better energy deal by running a check on our energy comparison calculator - here's how it works.

Switching energy suppliers step-by-step

Before switching, check whether you'll incur a fee for cancelling your current energy deal. Exit fees are common with fixed or capped rate tariffs if you end the deal before a set period.

1. To start switching energy suppliers, you'll need the following information:

  • Your postcode.
  • Current gas and electricity supplier, and the name of your tariff (look at your latest bill, or contact your supplier).
  • How much you spend (or use in kilowatt hours - kWh) on gas and electricity. Again, look at recent bills to calculate this.
  • Your bank or credit card details if you decide to switch and want to pay by direct debit.

Even if you don't have a recent bill to hand, you can still compare and switch energy deals using estimated energy figures – simply select 'No' when asked if you have your bill in front of you.

2. Enter your details into our switching form, which will calculate which options are best for you.

3. On the results page, you can compare the latest deals - we list the tariff details, our unique Which? Switch tariff rating and how well the supplier scored in our energy customer satisfaction survey.

4. Select the tariff and supplier you want, and follow the instructions to complete the switch. If you're unsure, our guide to energy tariffs lists pros and cons of the different types of tariff.

Couple using laptop

Nine out of 10 Which? members said they found switching easy

5. Your new energy supplier will organise the switch. You'll need to submit meter readings to them when requested, and settle outstanding bills with your old company. The process takes around eight weeks.

Switch and save

Two thirds of Which? members told us they had never switched energy suppliers. But if you've never switched your gas or electricity supplier, or not switched in the last couple of years, you'll almost certainly save money on your energy bills by moving to a different deal.

Of those who have switched, nine out of 10 found the process straightforward. If you would feel more comfortable being talked through the process, then call our switching advisors on 01992 822867 (Monday-Friday 9am-6pm) for free and impartial advice.

Most people can switch energy suppliers – even if you have a prepayment meter, or debts of up to £100. And with energy suppliers routinely launching new plans and tariffs, even regular switchers should run a comparison every six months - or ahead of their current tariff expiring - to check they're still on the best deal.

Which? Switch is a free, impartial and not-for-profit service from Which?. We're fully accredited by consumer watchdog Consumer Focus. 

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Cut your energy bills with Which? Switch

Households that switched to a dual fuel tariff with Which? Switch between 1 June 2010 and 31 May 2011 typically saved £237 a year.

Compare gas and electricity tariffs now to find the best energy deal for you

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