Compare energy tariffs with free electricity weekends in the UK
Looking for an energy tariff that gives you free electricity at the weekend? Compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus and see which tariffs may suit your usage, meter type and postcode.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households
- See weekend/off-peak style tariffs and time-of-use options
- Check unit rates, standing charges and key terms side-by-side
- Switch support for electricity-only or dual fuel (gas + electricity)
Home energy comparison for UK residents. Availability varies by supplier, region and meter type (including smart meters). Terms apply.
Compare weekend-free energy tariffs (whole-of-market)
“Free electricity weekends” tariffs can be appealing if you can shift higher-usage activities (washing, tumble drying, dishwashing, EV charging where applicable) to the free period. But the value depends on the weekday unit rate, the standing charge, and the exact free hours and caps.
EnergyPlus lets you compare home energy tariffs across the market. Tell us your postcode and a few details about your home energy set-up, and we’ll help you identify tariffs that match your needs — including time-of-use and weekend-promotional offers where available.
Before you compare: what “free weekends” usually means
- Free electricity applies in a specific window (e.g. Saturday/Sunday set hours).
- It may require a smart meter (or a compatible meter set-up).
- Some suppliers apply fair use rules, caps, or exclude certain usage types.
- Daytime/weekday unit rates may be higher to offset the free period.
What you’ll need
- Your postcode (to price your regional rates and network charges).
- Rough annual usage in kWh (from your bill), or an estimate.
- Whether you want electricity-only or dual fuel.
- Meter type: standard / Economy 7 / smart (if known).
Tip: If your weekend use is low, a “free weekends” tariff may cost more overall. Use the comparison to check total estimated annual cost, not just the headline offer.
Important: “Free electricity” promotions vary. Always confirm the tariff information label, eligibility, free hours, any fair usage caps, and the unit rates outside the free window before switching.
Why UK households compare free weekend electricity tariffs
Shift heavy usage to weekends
If you do most laundry, dishwashing, or batch-cooking at weekends, a free window can reduce costs — provided weekday rates remain competitive.
Compare total cost, not just headlines
EnergyPlus helps you weigh the free period against unit rates, standing charges, and contract terms so you can decide based on your actual usage pattern.
See time-of-use alternatives
In some cases, Economy 7 or other time-of-use tariffs can be better value than a weekend-only promotion, especially for night-time usage.
Useful for smart homes
If you have a smart meter and can schedule appliances, you may be able to maximise the free window without changing your lifestyle.
Confidence in switching
Switching can feel complex. Comparing all key numbers together makes it easier to avoid surprises like higher weekday rates or longer exit conditions.
How “free electricity weekends” tariffs work
A free weekend electricity tariff is typically a promotional structure where the supplier sets a defined period at weekends during which your electricity unit rate is reduced (sometimes to £0 per kWh). Outside that period, you pay the standard unit rate and the standing charge as normal.
- Supplier sets the free window: e.g. set hours on Saturday and/or Sunday.
- Your meter records usage: usually via a smart meter (or equivalent half-hourly capable set-up).
- Free-rate applied automatically: usage inside the window is billed at the promotional rate.
- Everything else billed normally: weekday/daytime usage may be priced higher than a standard single-rate tariff.
Best suited to households who can shift load
The biggest savings usually come from moving discretionary usage into the free hours: laundry, dishwashing, batch ironing, hot water heating (where electric), and scheduled charging (if applicable). If your energy use is mostly fixed during weekdays, a standard tariff may be cheaper overall.
What to check when comparing free weekend electricity tariffs
To compare accurately, focus on the numbers and terms that affect your annual cost. Free hours are only part of the picture.
A practical way to sense-check value
Estimate how many kWh you can move into the free window each weekend. Then compare the total yearly cost against a standard tariff with lower unit rates. If the weekday rate increase outweighs the “free” kWh, it may not be the best deal for your household.
Eligibility and requirements (UK homes)
You may need a smart meter
Many weekend-free and time-of-use tariffs depend on half-hourly readings, which are typically provided by a smart meter. If you don’t have one, you can still compare alternatives, or check if installation is available.
Region and network charges
Energy prices vary across Great Britain due to regional distribution charges. That’s why we ask for your postcode to provide accurate comparisons.
Economy 7 / multi-rate meters
If you have Economy 7, you already have off-peak rates at night. A weekend-free tariff may or may not be a better fit. Compare both structures using your real usage split.
Prepayment and credit checks
Availability can differ for prepayment customers, and some suppliers may run checks for certain payment methods. You can still compare options that match your situation.
If you’re unsure what meter you have, check your latest bill or look for “single-rate”, “two-rate / Economy 7”, or “smart meter” wording. You can also start the comparison and we’ll help identify compatible options.
Common mistakes when choosing a free weekend electricity tariff
Only looking at the “free” headline
A higher weekday unit rate can outweigh the free weekend benefit. Always compare estimated annual cost using your typical routine.
Not checking the exact hours
Some free windows are limited to certain hours. If you can’t realistically run appliances then, savings may be minimal.
Ignoring fair use caps
Promotions can have caps or exclusions. Confirm the tariff terms so your “free” usage is applied as expected.
Quick routine test
Write down your top 3 electricity-heavy tasks and when you normally do them. If you can comfortably move at least one to the weekend free window most weeks, the tariff may be worth exploring. If not, compare standard fixed and variable tariffs as well.
FAQs: free electricity weekends tariffs (UK)
Are free weekend electricity tariffs really free?
They can be free (or heavily discounted) only during a defined weekend window. Outside that period, you pay the tariff’s normal unit rate and standing charge. Because rates can be higher at other times, it’s best to compare the overall yearly cost.
Do I need a smart meter for weekend-free tariffs?
Often, yes. Many suppliers require a smart meter to apply time-based rates accurately. If you don’t have one, you can still compare other tariffs and check whether smart meter installation is available and suitable for your home.
Is a free weekend tariff better than Economy 7?
Not always. Economy 7 provides cheaper electricity overnight (typically 7 hours), which can work well for storage heaters or night-time usage. A weekend-free tariff can be better if your biggest flexible usage is at weekends. Comparing both with your usage split is the safest approach.
Can I get free weekends on dual fuel (gas + electricity)?
Some offers may be available on dual fuel, but the “free” component usually relates to electricity only. When comparing, check the gas unit rate and standing charge too — especially if you’re switching both fuels together.
Will switching affect my supply?
No. Your energy supply stays on while the switch is processed. The change is administrative, and you’ll be informed of key dates. Always provide accurate meter reads if requested.
How do I know if I’ll save money?
The most reliable method is comparing estimated annual costs using your kWh usage and your ability to shift electricity into the free window. If you’re unsure, start with your postcode and we’ll help you compare tariffs that make sense for your home.
Why households use EnergyPlus
“The comparison made it clear that the weekend promo wasn’t automatically cheaper — seeing the weekday rates helped us choose the right tariff.”
— Homeowner, Manchester
“Easy to understand. I liked the focus on total cost and standing charge rather than buzzwords.”
— Tenant, Bristol
“Helpful for checking smart meter tariff options in my postcode. The guidance on what to check saved time.”
— Family household, Glasgow
Trust & transparency
- Whole-of-market approach for UK home energy comparisons
- Clear focus on unit rates, standing charges, and tariff terms
- Guidance designed to help you choose what fits your household usage
Ready to compare free weekend electricity tariffs?
Share your postcode and contact details and we’ll help you compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs — including weekend-free and time-of-use options where available — so you can choose based on total cost and terms.
- Whole-of-market home energy comparison
- Check rates and terms side-by-side
- Switch with confidence
Availability depends on supplier, meter type and region. Always review tariff terms before switching.
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