What is a fixed energy tariff in the UK?

A fixed energy tariff locks in your unit rates (and sometimes the standing charge) for a set period, typically 12–24 months. This can protect you from price rises, but you may pay an exit fee if you switch before the fixed term ends.

What is a variable (falling) energy tariff and when does it get cheaper?

A variable tariff can go up or down over time and usually tracks changes in wholesale prices and the Ofgem price cap (where applicable). It may get cheaper when market costs fall or when the price cap reduces, but it can also rise with little notice.

Should I choose fixed or variable right now?

If you value bill certainty and want protection against potential increases, a fixed deal can suit you. If you can tolerate price changes and want flexibility to benefit if prices fall, a variable deal may fit better. Comparing both options side-by-side is usually the fastest way to decide.

Are there exit fees on fixed energy deals?

Many fixed tariffs include exit fees if you leave early, though the amount varies by supplier and product. Always check the tariff information label and contract details before switching.

How do I compare the best fixed and variable energy deals for my home?

Use your annual usage (kWh), postcode, and payment method to compare like-for-like unit rates and standing charges. Then weigh contract length, exit fees, and customer service. For a faster decision, compare options directly at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ and choose the tariff that matches your budget and risk preference.

Can I switch energy supplier if I have an EV charger?

Yes. Having an EV charger doesn’t stop you switching supplier. If you charge mostly at home, you may benefit from EV-friendly or off-peak tariffs—just ensure the rates and times match when you usually charge.

Is an EV or off-peak tariff always cheaper for charging at home?

Not always. Off-peak tariffs can reduce charging costs if you can shift most charging to the cheaper hours, but daytime rates may be higher. It’s worth comparing your expected charging pattern and total household usage before switching.

How quickly can I switch energy tariffs in the UK?

Most UK switches complete in around 5 working days under the faster switching process. Your supply won’t be interrupted, and you’ll just receive a final bill from your old supplier and ongoing bills from the new one.

Best fix and fall energy tariff deals in the UK this month

Compare whole-of-market fixed and tracker ("fall") home energy tariffs in one place. Tell us a few details and we’ll help you find a deal that matches your budget, risk level and usage.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (gas, electricity, or dual fuel)
See fixed vs tracker-style options explained in plain English
Switch with confidence: exit fees, standing charges and unit rates checked
Fast quote form — no jargon, no pressure

Get my best deals Fix vs fall: quick guide

Home energy only. Prices vary by region and usage. We’ll show options based on the details you provide.

Get today’s best fixed & fall-style tariffs for your home

“Fix and fall” searches usually mean one of two things:

Fixed tariffs (your unit rate and standing charge are locked for a set term), and
Tracker / variable tariffs that can fall (or rise) with the market, often linked to a published index or the supplier’s variable pricing.

EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and understand the trade-offs before you switch. If you’re unsure which route fits you best, complete the form and we’ll show suitable options based on your postcode and preferences.

Tip: Have a recent bill handy (or your smart meter app). If not, you can still compare by postcode and household details.

How EnergyPlus finds fixed and fall-style deals

Tell us your postcode (and any preferences) so we can pull tariffs available in your region.
We compare key costs including unit rates (p/kWh), standing charges (p/day), term length and any exit fees.
Pick the tariff type that fits—fixed for predictability, or tracker/variable if you’re comfortable with prices moving.
Switch—your new supplier handles the changeover (no engineer visit for a normal switch).

If you’ve never switched before, or you’re moving home, jump to FAQs for practical answers about timings, credit checks and what happens to your meter.

Why compare fixed vs “fall” (tracker/variable) tariffs this month?

Bills are made up of more than unit rates

A “cheap” p/kWh can be offset by a high standing charge. We help you compare the total picture, including how your usage pattern affects outcomes.

Deal availability changes by region

Tariffs vary across England, Scotland and Wales due to regional network charges. Your postcode matters—especially for standing charges.

Fixes protect budgets; trackers can benefit from drops

A fixed tariff can give stability for 12–24 months. A tracker/variable can fall when prices ease, but it can rise too—so risk tolerance matters.

Not sure which to choose? Use the Fix vs fall guide below, then submit the quote form for options available in your area.

Fixed vs “fall” tariffs: what UK households need to know

“Fall” isn’t an official tariff category in the UK. People typically mean a tracker (prices move with a reference) or a standard variable tariff (SVT) (supplier can change prices, usually within Ofgem rules). Here’s a clear comparison:

Feature	Fixed tariff	Tracker / variable (“fall-style”)
Price movement	Unit rates and standing charge are set for the term.	Prices can change—may fall or rise depending on the tariff rules.
Budget predictability	Higher—useful for households prioritising stable monthly payments.	Lower—bills may change month to month.
Exit fees	Common on many fixed deals (check before switching).	Often none, but not guaranteed—always confirm.
When it suits	If you want certainty, or you’d rather avoid market volatility.	If you’re comfortable with risk and want the chance to benefit if prices reduce.
What to check	Term length, exit fees, unit rates, standing charge, payment method discounts.	How changes are calculated, how often prices update, any cap/limit, and notice periods.

If you’re leaning towards fixed

Compare total cost (unit rate + standing charge) based on your usage.
Check exit fees and whether the fix allows penalty-free switching near the end.
Look for clarity on what happens after the term (often moves to SVT).

If you’re leaning towards tracker/variable

Understand the reference (what it tracks) and how often prices can change.
Consider your cashflow: can you absorb a price rise?
Set a personal trigger: if prices rise above X, you’ll switch to a fixed.

The deal checklist: what makes an energy tariff “best” for you?

The “best fix and fall energy tariff” depends on your household’s usage, property type and tolerance for changing prices. Use this checklist when comparing options:

1) Unit rate (p/kWh)

Your cost per unit of gas/electricity. High usage homes tend to feel unit rate differences most.

2) Standing charge (p/day)

A daily fixed charge. If you use less energy, standing charge can be a bigger share of your bill.

3) Tariff type & term

Fixed (typically 12–24 months) vs variable/tracker. Longer fixes can mean stability but less flexibility.

4) Exit fees and rules

Know what it costs to leave early. If you want to switch quickly if prices change, this matters.

5) Payment method

Direct Debit vs pay-on-receipt can change pricing. Make sure the quote matches how you’ll pay.

6) Smart meters & usage profile

If you have a smart meter, more tariff options may be available (including time-of-use in some cases).

Quick win: If you haven’t compared since your last fix ended, you may be on a standard variable tariff. Get deals to see fixed and tracker-style options available now.

Regional considerations across the UK

Energy pricing in Great Britain can vary by region due to network costs. This is why two households using the same amount of energy may get different “best” results depending on location.

Why your postcode matters

Standing charges differ by distribution region.
Unit rates can vary for the same tariff name.
Some suppliers prioritise certain areas for particular deals.

If you’re in Scotland or Wales

The same supplier and tariff type can still be available, but pricing can differ. Always compare using your own postcode rather than a national headline rate.

Common mistakes when choosing a fixed or fall-style tariff

Comparing on unit rate only

A lower unit rate doesn’t always mean a lower bill if the standing charge is higher. Always compare estimated annual cost for your usage.

Ignoring exit fees on fixed deals

If prices drop and you want to switch again, exit fees can wipe out savings. We highlight these so you can decide.

Assuming trackers always fall

Trackers and variable tariffs can rise. If you choose one, set a boundary: what price would make you switch to fixed?

Forgetting your current tariff end date

You can often switch in advance. If you’re near the end of a fix, it’s worth comparing now to avoid rolling onto a pricier default.

FAQs: fixed and fall energy deals (UK)

What is a “fix and fall” energy tariff?

It’s a common search phrase rather than an official tariff type. It usually means comparing fixed tariffs (price locked) with tariffs where prices can fall or rise, such as tracker or variable options.

How long does switching take?

A typical supplier switch in Great Britain can take around 5 working days in many cases, but timings can vary. Your supply shouldn’t be interrupted during a standard switch.

Will I need an engineer visit?

Not for a normal tariff or supplier switch. Your existing gas and electricity meters usually remain in place. If you’re having a smart meter installed, that’s separate.

Can I switch if I’m in debt to my supplier?

It depends on your situation and meter type. Some customers can still switch (especially if they agree a repayment plan), but there may be restrictions. We recommend checking your supplier’s rules before switching.

Do fixed tariffs always save money?

Not always. Fixed tariffs can cost more than variable/tracker options at times—what they offer is predictability. The best choice depends on your budget and how comfortable you are with price changes.

What details do I need to compare?

At minimum: your postcode. For a more accurate estimate, your annual usage in kWh (from a bill) helps, but it isn’t required to start a comparison.

Still unsure? Start with the deal form and we’ll guide you through the options available for your home.

What customers like about comparing with EnergyPlus

“Clear breakdown of standing charge vs unit rates. Helped me choose a fix without guessing.”

— Homeowner, Greater Manchester

“I didn’t realise my region affected the price so much. The postcode comparison made it obvious.”

— Tenant, Cardiff

“Quick form, useful guidance. I switched without any hassle and kept my same meter.”

— Household, Edinburgh

We focus on practical comparisons: the real costs that affect your monthly bill—without pushing one tariff type for everyone.

Ready to compare the best fix and fall energy deals for your postcode?

Use our quick form to see fixed and tracker/variable options available for your home. We’ll help you understand the differences so you can switch with confidence.

Compare deals now Read the guide

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Updated on 24 Feb 2026