Can I get a cheaper energy tariff without a smart meter in the UK?
Yes. Many UK suppliers still offer competitive tariffs without a smart meter. Compare whole-of-market deals with EnergyPlus and switch to a cheaper rate using your postcode and a few details—no smart meter required.
- Compare fixed and variable home energy tariffs even if you have a traditional meter
- See deals based on your usage (or estimates) and payment type
- Switch online with support for meter readings and move-in situations
- Whole-of-market comparison to help you find better value
Home energy only. Prices depend on your region, usage and payment method. Switching won’t interrupt your supply.
Compare cheaper tariffs without a smart meter
You don’t need a smart meter to switch supplier or move to a better tariff. Most households can switch using standard meter readings (or estimated usage if you’re unsure). EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market home energy deals so you can see options that fit your budget and preferences.
If you’ve been told you “must” have a smart meter to access cheaper tariffs, it’s worth double-checking. Some suppliers may promote smart tariffs, but plenty of competitive rates are still available without one—especially fixed deals and standard direct debit tariffs.
Yes—you can often get a cheaper energy tariff without a smart meter in the UK. The best deal depends on your region, usage and payment method. Use the form to start a whole-of-market comparison.
What you’ll need (no smart meter required)
- Your postcode (to match your region and network)
- Approximate annual usage (kWh) or monthly spend (we can estimate)
- Payment preference (e.g., Direct Debit, pay on receipt of bill where available)
- Whether you want electricity only, gas only or dual fuel
Why you can still save without a smart meter
Switching doesn’t depend on smart meters
You can move supplier with a traditional credit meter, prepayment meter, or an older meter. The new supplier just needs your opening meter reading (or an agreed estimate).
Fixed deals can be available either way
Many competitive fixed-rate tariffs don’t require smart functionality. If you prefer price certainty, you can often lock in a unit rate and standing charge for a set term.
No forced change to your home setup
If you’d rather keep manual readings, you can. You may be asked about smart meters during the switch, but you can usually choose to continue without one unless there’s a specific technical reason.
You can compare on estimates
Not sure of your usage? A comparison can still work using typical consumption or your current monthly spend—helpful if you’ve just moved in.
Direct Debit discounts may still apply
Often the biggest pricing difference comes from payment method (e.g., Monthly Direct Debit) rather than whether you have a smart meter.
Whole-of-market visibility
Energy pricing changes. Comparing whole-of-market helps you spot cheaper unit rates, lower standing charges, or better contract terms even if you’re not on a smart tariff.
How switching works without a smart meter
- Compare tariffs based on your postcode, fuel type and estimated usage.
- Pick a tariff that suits you (fixed or variable). Check unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and contract length.
- We help you switch. Your new supplier arranges the transfer—your energy supply continues as normal.
- Provide an opening meter reading (manual) around switch-over so your final/first bills are accurate.
- Track your costs using regular readings and statements. You can submit readings monthly if you prefer tighter control.
Will my supply be interrupted?
No. Switching supplier is an administrative change. Your gas and electricity continue to flow through the same pipes and wires, and you keep the same meter unless you later agree to a meter exchange.
Which tariffs can be cheaper without a smart meter?
Some tariffs are marketed as “smart” (for example, time-of-use rates). However, a smart meter is not required for many common tariffs that can still reduce your bills.
| Tariff type | Smart meter needed? | Who it suits | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed rate | No (usually) | Households wanting price certainty | Exit fees, term length, standing charge |
| Variable / standard variable | No | Flexibility, no fixed end date | Rates can change; compare regularly |
| Dual fuel bundle | No | Homes with gas and electricity | Total cost vs separate suppliers |
| Economy 7 / multi-rate | Not necessarily | Storage heaters / off-peak use | Day/night split and actual usage pattern |
| Time-of-use (e.g., EV smart tariff) | Often yes | EV owners shifting usage to cheaper hours | Meter requirement, peak rates, eligibility |
If you’re mainly looking for a cheaper bill and you don’t want (or can’t have) a smart meter right now, a well-priced fixed rate or competitive variable tariff can still be a strong option.
Meter readings: what changes if you don’t have a smart meter?
You may need to submit readings
Without a smart meter, your supplier will use your manual meter readings to bill you accurately. If you don’t submit them, bills can be based on estimates—which may be higher or lower than your real usage.
Budgeting can still be straightforward
Many households prefer a regular routine (e.g., monthly readings). It can help you spot seasonal changes, avoid bill shock, and keep Direct Debit amounts closer to your actual usage.
Tip: how to take a quick reading
- Electricity: record the numbers shown (ignore digits in red or after a decimal).
- Gas: note whether your meter shows m³ or ft³ (it affects the conversion to kWh on your bill).
- Economy 7: capture both day and night readings if you have two registers.
Common mistakes that stop people finding cheaper tariffs
Comparing only by monthly cost
Your Direct Debit can be adjusted by suppliers. Compare using unit rate, standing charge, and your estimated annual usage for a clearer view.
Not checking exit fees
If you’re on a fixed tariff, you may have exit fees for leaving early. It can still be worth switching, but it’s important to factor that cost in.
Staying on estimated bills
If your usage is overestimated, you might be overpaying. Regular meter readings improve billing accuracy and help you judge whether a deal is genuinely cheaper.
Regional differences matter
Energy prices vary by region due to network costs. That’s why postcode is essential: it helps show tariffs available in your area and their true standing charge and unit rate.
FAQs: cheaper energy without a smart meter
Do suppliers in the UK require a smart meter to switch?
In most cases, no. You can usually switch with a traditional meter. Your new supplier will ask for an opening reading or use an agreed estimate to ensure billing is accurate.
Are smart meter tariffs always cheaper?
Not always. Some smart tariffs are cheaper at off-peak times but can be more expensive at peak times. If you can’t shift usage (or don’t want to), a competitive fixed or standard tariff without smart requirements may cost less overall.
Can I refuse a smart meter?
You can usually choose whether to accept a smart meter installation. Suppliers may offer appointments, but you’re not typically forced to have one. If you’re renting, you may also need your landlord’s agreement for changes to fixtures.
What if I have a prepayment meter?
You may still be able to find cheaper options, but availability can differ by supplier and region. Some prepayment customers can switch to a credit meter (subject to checks), which may open more tariffs.
I’ve just moved in—can I compare without knowing my usage?
Yes. You can compare using estimates based on property type and occupancy, or your expected monthly spend. You can refine later once you’ve built up a few bills or meter readings.
Will I need to contact my current supplier?
Usually, no. The new supplier manages the switch process. You may want to take a photo of your meter on switch day and keep your final bill for your records.
What makes a tariff “cheaper” in practice?
For most homes, “cheaper” means a lower total annual cost—driven by unit rates, standing charges, and any fees. A tariff with a slightly higher unit rate can still be cheaper if the standing charge is significantly lower (and vice versa) depending on how much energy you use.
Want personalised options? Start your comparison and we’ll match deals available for your postcode.
What customers say about switching support
“I don’t have a smart meter and assumed that meant fewer options. The comparison showed a fixed deal that worked out cheaper than my current tariff.”
— Homeowner, West Midlands
“Clear explanation of unit rates and standing charges. Switching was straightforward and I just submitted my opening readings.”
— Tenant, Greater London
“I’d moved into a new place and didn’t know the usage. The estimate got me started and I updated once I had readings.”
— First-time mover, Scotland
Trust indicators
- Whole-of-market home energy comparison
- Switching support with meter reading guidance
- UK-focused tariffs and regional pricing visibility
Ready to find a cheaper tariff—without installing a smart meter?
Compare whole-of-market home energy deals for your postcode. It takes a few minutes and your supply won’t be interrupted.
If you later choose a smart tariff, you can review meter options then—there’s no need to decide today.
Before you switch, have ready:
- Your postcode
- Current supplier name (if known)
- A recent bill or typical monthly spend
- Meter type (standard, Economy 7, prepay)
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