Compare fixed energy deals before the April price cap
A practical UK guide to deciding whether fixing now is right for you, what to check before you commit, and how to compare whole-of-market deals for your home using your postcode and meter details.
- Answer-first summary: when fixing can help (and when it won’t)
- What the April price cap change does (and doesn’t) mean for your bill
- Two realistic scenarios with numbers, plus a decision checklist
Estimates only. Availability, prices and terms vary by postcode, payment method and meter type. Always check exit fees and contract length before switching.
Fast answer
The best way to compare fixed energy deals before April price cap is to check today’s whole-of-market fixed tariffs against your current unit rates and standing charges, then weigh the price difference over your expected usage against any exit fees. The April cap affects variable tariffs, not what you’ve already fixed.
Key takeaway 1
A price-cap change can raise or lower the maximum suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs (SVTs). It’s not a cap on your total bill and it doesn’t automatically change fixed deals you already have.
Key takeaway 2
A fix can be worth it if the total estimated cost (including standing charges) is lower than your current tariff and you’re comfortable with the term and exit fees.
Key takeaway 3
Your best deal depends on postcode, meter type (credit/prepay/smart), payment method and usage. Comparing with accurate details matters more than headline “average bill” figures.
Quick reality check: if you’re on a fixed tariff that ends soon, your supplier may move you onto an SVT afterwards. Comparing before that happens can help you avoid “rolling” onto a higher default option. Always check your end date and any exit fees.
Compare fixed deals the way suppliers price them
Fixed deals are priced using the details of your property and supply. To get a reliable comparison before the April price cap change, focus on what affects your quote most:
Your postcode & region
Network costs and standing charges can vary by region. A deal that looks strong nationally may not be best in your area.
Meter type & payment method
Credit meters, prepayment meters and smart meters can have different available tariffs. Paying by Direct Debit can also change pricing.
Your usage (kWh)
A low unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. Usage is what turns tariffs into annual cost estimates.
Fix length & flexibility
A longer fix may offer predictability, but check exit fees and whether you might move home or change circumstances.
Tip: If you have a smart meter, your In-Home Display is not enough for comparison. Try to use annual kWh from your latest bill or your online account, as it will make the estimated totals more realistic.
Get a quote (whole of market)
Enter your details to compare available fixed deals for your home. We’ll use your postcode and contact details to send your results and help you switch if you choose to.
What we’ll ask you next (to improve accuracy)
Current supplier & tariff type
So you can compare like-for-like (fixed vs variable) and spot potential exit fees.
Electricity setup
Single-rate, Economy 7/10, or smart time-of-use. These can change which deals suit you.
Gas supply
Whether you need dual fuel or electricity-only (for example, flats with communal heating).
Renters: you can usually switch the energy supplier if you pay the bills, but you should not change the meter type (for example to prepay) without the landlord’s permission. If you’re unsure, check guidance from Citizens Advice on switching supplier.
What to compare before you fix (and why it matters)
Before the April price cap update, it’s tempting to focus on whether the cap is going up or down. For most households, the decision is better made by comparing the total estimated annual cost and the terms you’re signing up to.
| What you’re comparing | Why it affects your real cost | What to check in the quote |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rates (electricity/gas) | Lower unit rates help most if you use a lot of energy. | Are rates fixed for the whole term? Any time-of-use periods? |
| Standing charges | High standing charges can outweigh unit-rate savings for low users. | Compare standing charges for both fuels, for your region. |
| Contract length | Longer fixes can reduce price uncertainty, but reduce flexibility. | Does it match your plans (moving home, renovation, heat pump/EV)? |
| Exit fees | If prices fall, exit fees can make it expensive to switch again. | How much per fuel? Do they apply at any time or only early on? |
| Payment method | Direct Debit vs receipt of bill can affect available prices and budgeting. | Any discounts/fees? Is it monthly fixed DD or variable DD? |
| Eligibility & meter requirements | Some tariffs are limited by meter type (smart/prepay/E7) or usage profile. | Do you need a smart meter? Any constraints for prepay or multi-rate? |
Who fixing before April can suit
- You want predictable pricing for budgeting (even if prices later fall).
- Your current deal is ending soon and you’ll otherwise move to an SVT.
- The fixed quote is clearly lower on estimated annual cost and has acceptable exit fees.
- You’re in a property where usage is stable and you don’t plan to change heating/occupancy soon.
Who may be better waiting (or staying flexible)
- You may move home in the next 6–12 months (exit fees can bite).
- You’re unsure about your usage (for example, new home, household changes).
- You’re considering a heat pump, EV, solar or battery soon (usage pattern may change).
- The only available fixes are close to your current SVT cost but have high exit fees.
Two realistic scenarios (illustrative numbers)
These examples show the method rather than predicting live tariff prices. Replace the figures with your quote results for an accurate decision.
Scenario A: Deal ending, wants certainty
- Assumptions
- Dual fuel, paying by Direct Debit, typical usage profile. Current fix ends in March, would roll onto an SVT in April.
- Illustrative comparison
- Estimated SVT cost after April: £1,680/year vs fixed quote: £1,600/year (difference: £80/year).
- Decision logic
- If exit fees are low (or the supplier allows a fee-free window near the end of your current deal), taking the fix could be reasonable for budgeting. If exit fees would exceed the estimated £80 benefit, consider waiting or choosing a shorter fix.
Scenario B: Low user, standing charges dominate
- Assumptions
- Electricity-only flat with low usage. Comparing two fixed quotes: one with lower unit rate but higher standing charge.
- Illustrative comparison
- Fix 1 total estimate: £820/year vs Fix 2 total estimate: £790/year, mainly due to lower standing charge.
- Decision logic
- For low usage, a slightly higher unit rate can still win if the standing charge is meaningfully lower. Always compare total estimated annual cost, not just the unit rate headline.
How to use these scenarios: When you get your quote, look at the estimated annual cost and then stress-test it: “What if my usage is 10–15% higher?” If the saving disappears, a longer fixed term with exit fees may not be worth the commitment.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls to avoid
Before fixing, make sure the comparison you’re looking at reflects your real situation. These are the issues that most often cause “surprise” costs or disappointment after switching.
1) Exit fees
Many fixed tariffs include exit fees per fuel. If you might move home or want to re-fix later, factor the fees into the “true” cost of fixing.
2) Standing charge surprises
A tariff can look cheap on unit rates but still cost more overall if the standing charge is higher. This matters most for low users and small flats.
3) Meter type mismatch
Prepayment and multi-rate meters can have fewer options. If you’re Economy 7/10, make sure you’re comparing tariffs built for that setup.
4) “Average bill” misunderstanding
The price cap is often quoted as an “average” annual bill for typical usage. Your bill depends on your kWh usage, your region and your standing charges.
5) Timing: switching vs start date
Switches don’t always start the same day you apply. If you’re near a fix end date, plan ahead so you don’t accidentally spend time on a higher default tariff.
6) Direct Debit expectations
Monthly Direct Debits are often set to smooth costs over the year. A “fixed price” tariff does not guarantee your monthly DD won’t be reviewed if usage differs from estimates.
If you’re in debt to your current supplier: switching may be restricted in some situations, especially on prepayment meters. Citizens Advice explains your options in their guide to problems with your energy supply.
FAQs
Does the April price cap apply to fixed tariffs?
No. The Ofgem energy price cap limits the maximum unit rates and standing charges suppliers can set on standard variable tariffs (SVTs) in Great Britain. Fixed tariffs have their own prices and terms, which typically stay the same for the fixed period unless the contract allows specific changes.
If I fix now, can I still switch again later?
Usually yes, but many fixed deals include exit fees if you leave before the end of the term. The fee amount and conditions vary, so check the tariff’s terms before you commit and factor any fees into your decision.
What details do I need to compare fixed energy deals accurately?
At minimum: your postcode, whether you want gas and electricity or electricity-only, your payment method (for example Direct Debit), meter type (credit, prepay, smart) and an estimate of annual usage in kWh from a recent bill. These inputs help turn tariff prices into a realistic annual cost estimate.
Is it worth fixing before April if the price cap is expected to fall?
It depends on the fixed deals available for your postcode and the terms attached. A falling cap can reduce SVT prices, but fixed deals can still be competitive for certainty or if they’re lower overall for your usage. Compare total estimated annual cost, then weigh that against exit fees and how long you want to commit.
Can renters switch energy supplier?
Often yes, if you’re the bill payer. However, you should not change the meter type (such as switching to prepayment) without the landlord’s permission. If you’re unsure, check Citizens Advice guidance on switching.
Will switching affect my smart meter?
In most cases you can still switch supplier with a smart meter. Smart features can vary depending on the meter and supplier systems, but the supply itself should continue. If a tariff requires a smart meter (for example, time-of-use pricing), check the eligibility and any requirements before switching.
What is the difference between a fixed tariff and a standard variable tariff (SVT)?
A fixed tariff generally keeps unit rates and standing charges the same for a set term, often with exit fees if you leave early. An SVT has prices that can change, and it’s the type of tariff most directly affected by Ofgem’s price cap updates.
Where can I check the official price cap information?
Use Ofgem’s official pages for the latest cap levels, how the cap works, and what it covers. Start with Ofgem guidance on the energy price cap.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page details
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- July 2026
How we assess whether fixing before April may help
This guide is designed to help you make a decision without relying on tariff hype or assumptions about what the price cap will do. We focus on the comparison inputs that drive household costs and the contract terms that most often change the outcome.
- We compare totals, not headlines: estimated annual cost depends on unit rates, standing charges and your usage.
- We treat the cap correctly: the Ofgem cap relates to SVTs (and other default tariffs), not a cap on your bill and not a cap on fixed deals.
- We include commitment costs: exit fees and term length can matter as much as price.
- We avoid inventing tariffs: we do not name supplier tariffs or quote live unit rates on this page because they change frequently and vary by postcode and meter.
Limitations: Any example numbers on this page are illustrative only. Your actual available deals, exit fees and estimated costs depend on your region, payment method, meter type (including Economy 7/10), and your recent kWh usage.
Ready to compare fixed deals for your home?
Get a whole-of-market quote using your postcode. You’ll be able to review estimated costs, contract length and key terms before you choose whether to switch.
Back to Energy Cost Saving Advice