Are there any tariffs that work like a 3-day-a-week deal?

Not typically in the UK domestic market. The closest alternatives are time-of-use tariffs (where the price changes by time of day) and smart meter tariffs that reward off-peak usage. These can feel similar if you can shift most of your consumption into cheaper windows, but they don’t restrict billing to specific days.

What’s the best alternative if I’m home only three days a week?

If your property is unoccupied for part of the week, focus on tariffs with a competitive standing charge and unit rate, and reduce background consumption (heating timers, hot water schedules, always-on appliances). If you have a smart meter, you may also benefit from a time-of-use tariff if you can run appliances during cheaper periods.

Do I still pay a standing charge if I use no energy on some days?

Yes. Most UK tariffs include a daily standing charge for electricity and/or gas, which is applied regardless of how much energy you use. If you use the home less often, comparing standing charges can have a noticeable impact on your annual cost.

Can I get a cheaper rate by switching supplier instead?

Often, yes. Prices vary by supplier, tariff type, payment method, and region. Comparing available tariffs based on your actual usage is usually the most reliable way to see whether switching could reduce your bills.

What information do I need to compare or switch energy tariffs?

To compare accurately, have your postcode, current supplier and tariff name (if known), your fuel type (gas, electricity, or dual fuel), and an estimate of your annual usage in kWh (from recent bills). If you have a smart meter, your half-hourly usage data can make comparisons even more accurate.

Will switching affect my supply or cause any downtime?

No. Switching supplier doesn’t interrupt your gas or electricity supply—energy still comes through the same pipes and wires. Your new supplier simply takes over billing.

How long does an energy switch usually take in the UK?

Many switches complete within around 5 working days under the faster switching process, though timings can vary depending on circumstances. You’ll be given a start date and can usually cancel within any applicable cooling-off period.

What if I’m on a fixed tariff—can I switch without paying exit fees?

Some fixed tariffs include exit fees if you leave before the end date. However, many suppliers allow you to switch without exit fees in the final weeks of your fixed term. Check your tariff terms or your latest bill to confirm.

How can I reduce energy costs if I can’t find a 3-day-a-week tariff?

Start with quick wins: set heating schedules to match occupancy, lower the thermostat slightly, use appliance eco-modes, switch off standby devices, and run high-use appliances at cheaper times if you’re on a time-of-use tariff. Then compare suppliers and tariffs to ensure you’re not overpaying on unit rates and standing charges.

Can I switch to a 3-day-a-week energy tariff in the UK?

Q: Can I switch to a 3-day-a-week energy tariff in the UK?

In most cases, UK households can’t switch to a true "3-day-a-week" tariff where you only pay for energy on three specific days. Energy suppliers typically offer tariffs based on unit rates and standing charges, or time-of-use rates (for example, cheaper electricity at night). If you’re looking to cut costs, it’s usually more effective to compare fixed/variable tariffs, consider time-of-use options (like Economy 7), or reduce usage on higher-cost periods.

If your household uses most energy on specific days (or you’re trying to shift usage), you may be wondering whether a 3-days-per-week tariff exists. Compare whole-of-market home energy options with EnergyPlus and find a tariff that matches how you actually use gas and electricity.

Check if a true “3-day” tariff is available (and what’s closest in today’s market)
Compare day/night, weekend, EV and smart meter tariffs in one place
See the real cost: standing charge + unit rates + time windows
Switch online in minutes with a quick form (no obligation)

Compare tariffs & switch Learn how 3-day tariffs work

Home energy only. Switching is subject to supplier acceptance and your meter type. You’ll always see key tariff details (including any exit fees and time windows) before you proceed.

Compare time-based tariffs that can mimic a 3-day plan

In the UK, suppliers rarely label products as a “3-day-a-week energy tariff”. Instead, you’ll typically find time-of-use tariffs (such as day/night, EV or smart meter tariffs) where the unit rate changes by time and/or day. If your goal is to pay less on three specific days, the best match is often a tariff with cheaper off-peak windows you can align to your routine.

Tip: A tariff that looks cheap on certain days can still cost more overall if the standing charge is high or if you can’t reliably shift usage into the cheaper windows. We’ll help you compare the full picture.

What you’ll need to get accurate quotes

Your postcode (regional network area impacts pricing)
Whether you have a smart meter (or are willing to get one)
Approximate usage (kWh) or spend (monthly/annual)
Whether you want electricity only or dual fuel (gas + electricity)

Get matched to the best tariff for your schedule

Complete this quick form and we’ll compare whole-of-market options for your home.

Postcode

Phone

Fuel type

Do you have a smart meter?

What am I looking for?

By submitting, you agree to be contacted about home energy quotes. We’ll use your details to respond to your request and help you compare tariffs.

What is a “3-day-a-week” energy tariff?

A true 3-day-a-week energy tariff would mean your electricity (and potentially gas) is priced differently on three named days each week. In practice, most UK suppliers don’t offer a mainstream domestic tariff branded exactly like this. However, some tariffs can function similarly by offering cheaper rates during set times (for example overnight, weekends, or specific hours), which you can use to concentrate your higher-usage activities on your preferred days.

Why people ask for 3-day tariffs

Working from home only on certain days
Running a tumble dryer, dishwasher, or immersion heater in batches
Charging an EV mainly on specific days
Trying to cut costs by shifting high-use activities

Key reality check

Even if the unit rate is cheaper on certain days or times, you still usually pay a daily standing charge. That means a tariff only works well if the overall maths stacks up for your household usage pattern.

Closest UK tariff types to a 3-day plan

If you want lower prices on certain days, these are the tariff structures most likely to help. Availability varies by supplier, region, and whether you have a compatible meter.

Time-of-use (smart meter) tariffs

Prices change by time blocks (and sometimes by day). Ideal if you can run appliances during cheaper windows. Often requires a smart meter.

Economy 7 / day-night style tariffs

Lower rate for ~7 hours overnight, higher in the day. Best for homes with night storage heaters or heavy overnight use.

EV tariffs (or off-peak add-ons)

Designed for EV charging with very cheap off-peak hours. Can mimic “3-day” usage if you charge mainly on three nights.

Weekend-focused pricing (where available)

Some tariffs price weekends differently. This can come close to a 2–3 day focus if your higher use is Fri–Sun.

Fixed tariffs (price certainty)

Not day-specific, but can be cheaper overall and easier to budget for. Good if shifting usage is unrealistic.

Variable tariffs (flexibility)

Rates can change (often linked to the supplier’s pricing). Not a “3-day” tariff, but may suit short-term switching plans.

Whole-of-market comparison matters: the best “3-day” equivalent depends on your usage profile, not just the headline unit rate. We compare suppliers and tariff types to find the closest fit.

Who a “3-day” style tariff can work for

Good fit

You can consistently shift high-use tasks into cheaper windows
You have a smart meter (or are happy to get one installed)
Your home has flexible loads: EV charging, dishwasher, tumble dryer, immersion heater
You understand the trade-off between off-peak and peak unit rates

Not always a good fit

Most energy use is daytime and hard to move (cooking, heating, working from home every day)
You’re on electric heating and can’t safely manage timed heating patterns
The tariff’s peak rate is significantly higher than standard alternatives
You’re tied into a contract with high exit fees

How to switch (and what to check before you do)

Switching energy supplier in the UK is usually straightforward, but time-based tariffs have extra details worth checking. Use this checklist to avoid expensive surprises.

Confirm your meter setup: smart meter (best for time-of-use), Economy 7, or standard. If you’re unsure, we can still compare options from your postcode and usage.
Map your “three days” usage: list what you’ll move (laundry, batch cooking, EV charging) and whether it can happen at the tariff’s cheapest hours.
Compare the full costs: unit rate(s) + standing charge + any exit fees. Don’t judge by a single cheap window.
Check restrictions: some tariffs require smart meter data, app controls, or have specific eligibility rules.
Submit your details: we’ll match you to suitable tariffs, then you choose whether to proceed.

Quick comparison table: what you’ll typically see

Tariff type	Best for	Watch-outs	Can it mimic “3 days”?
Smart time-of-use	Flexible households shifting usage into set windows	Peak rates can be higher; needs compatible metering	Often yes (shift heavier use into windows on chosen days)
Economy 7	Overnight-heavy use, storage heaters	Day rate may be higher than single-rate tariffs	Partly (cheaper nights can support a 3-day routine)
EV / off-peak tariffs	EV charging and other shiftable loads	Not always cheapest if you don’t use the off-peak window	Yes (charge mainly on 3 nights/days)
Fixed	Budgeting, consistent usage	May have exit fees; not time-based	No (but can be cheaper overall)

Accessible tip: If you use medical equipment, have mobility needs, or rely on heating for health reasons, focus on overall affordability and price stability rather than complex time windows.

Costs, savings and common pitfalls

Standing charges still apply

Most domestic tariffs charge a daily standing charge. A “cheap three days” approach works best when your annual usage is high enough to benefit from lower unit rates.

Peak rates can be higher

Time-of-use tariffs may offset cheap windows with expensive peak pricing. If you can’t shift usage reliably, you may pay more than on a simple fixed tariff.

Your region affects prices

Unit rates and standing charges vary by regional network. That’s why a tariff your friend has elsewhere in the UK may not price the same in your postcode.

Simple ways to make a “3-day” strategy work

Batch appliances: run laundry and dishwasher back-to-back during the cheapest window
Use timers safely: only where manufacturer guidance allows (avoid unsafe overnight tumble drying)
Heat smarter: if you have electric heating, prioritise insulation and controls before chasing complex tariffs
Track usage: smart meter apps can help you confirm you’re hitting the low-rate periods

Want a quick answer for your home?

Tell us your postcode and meter type and we’ll show whether a time-based tariff could beat your current deal.

Compare tariffs now

FAQs: 3-day-a-week energy tariffs in the UK

Do any UK suppliers offer a true 3-day tariff?

It’s uncommon for domestic suppliers to advertise a tariff explicitly priced for three specific days every week. Most “closest match” options are time-of-use products where the price changes by time window (and sometimes by day) rather than “3 days on / 4 days off”.

Will I need a smart meter?

Often, yes. Many time-of-use tariffs require smart meter readings to apply different rates at different times. If you don’t have one, we can still compare standard and fixed options, and highlight tariffs that may be available if you upgrade.

Can I choose which three days are cheaper?

Usually not. Where day-based pricing exists, the supplier defines the schedule (for example weekend vs weekday, or fixed off-peak hours). The best approach is to choose a tariff whose cheaper periods match your routine.

Is gas ever cheaper on certain days too?

Day-specific or time-of-use pricing is far more common for electricity than for gas. If your main costs are heating and hot water on gas, you may get better results by comparing fixed/variable gas rates and reducing usage rather than relying on a 3-day pattern.

Can switching affect my supply or cause downtime?

No. In the UK, switching supplier doesn’t mean your gas or electricity gets turned off. You’ll keep using the same energy; only the billing supplier changes.

What if I’m on a fixed contract with exit fees?

Exit fees can apply on some fixed deals. When we compare options, factor the exit fee into your potential savings. If you’re near the end of your term, it may be worth lining up a switch date.

Why compare with EnergyPlus (whole-of-market)

Whole-of-market comparisons

We look across a broad range of UK domestic tariffs so you can compare time-based and standard options side-by-side.

Clear tariff details

We focus on what matters: standing charge, unit rates, time windows, contract length and exit fees—so you can make a confident choice.

Quick switching journey

If you decide to go ahead, the process is designed to be simple—starting with a short form and support when you need it.

What UK households say

“I wanted a tariff that made weekend and evening usage cheaper. The comparison made it obvious which deals actually worked once standing charges were included.”

Homeowner, West Midlands

“We couldn’t find a ‘three-day’ tariff, but we did find an off-peak window we can use for laundry and EV charging. The switch was straightforward.”

Family household, Greater Manchester

Ready to find the best alternative to a 3-day tariff?

Submit the form and we’ll compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs that can fit a three-day usage pattern—without missing the hidden costs that drive bills up.

Domestic tariffs across the UK
Time-of-use, EV, fixed and variable options
Clear breakdown of standing charge and unit rates

Start my comparison Read FAQs

Prefer to explore first? Use the jumplinks above to learn how time-of-use tariffs work and what to check before switching.

Fast checklist

Do you have a smart meter?
Which 3 days will you shift high-use tasks to?
Can you use the cheapest hours reliably?
What’s your standing charge today?

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Updated on 7 Jan 2026