Cheapest fixed energy deal before April’s price rise (UK guide)
If you’re trying to lock in a fixed tariff before the next price cap change, this guide shows what “cheapest” really means, who a fix suits, and how to compare like‑for‑like in minutes.
- See whether fixing now is likely to beat the next Ofgem price cap (and when it won’t)
- Understand exit fees, payment method, meter type and regional pricing differences
- Get a whole‑of‑market comparison quote (estimated) with no obligation
Estimates shown use typical household assumptions and can’t guarantee savings. Tariffs, eligibility and unit rates vary by region, meter type and payment method.
Fast answer: what’s the cheapest fixed deal before April?
In the UK, the “cheapest fixed energy deal” before an April price cap change is usually the fixed tariff with the lowest estimated annual cost for your home once you account for your region, meter type (credit, smart, prepay, Economy 7), payment method (Direct Debit vs pay on receipt), and exit fees.
Important: Ofgem’s price cap limits the unit rates and standing charges for standard variable tariffs (SVTs) for typical usage. It doesn’t cap fixed deals. A fix can still be higher than the SVT now (or later), and many fixes have exit fees.
Key takeaways (read this before you fix)
- If you want bill certainty: a fixed tariff can stabilise unit rates for 12–24 months, but you may pay a premium for that certainty.
- If you might move home or switch again soon: check exit fees carefully (often charged per fuel).
- If you have prepayment: fixed options may be limited; compare prepay‑eligible deals specifically.
- If you have Economy 7: compare day/night rates, not just the headline annual cost.
- Cheapest on paper isn’t always cheapest for you: standing charges, region and your usage pattern can change the result.
Compare fixed deals (whole of market) before April
Tell us a few details and we’ll match you to available fixed tariffs for your situation. You’ll see estimated costs and key terms like contract length and exit fees (where provided by suppliers).
Why we ask for postcode: electricity distribution region and gas network area affect unit rates and standing charges. Postcode helps us price accurately.
What you’ll need (takes ~2 minutes)
- Postcode (for regional pricing)
- Whether you pay by Direct Debit or other method
- Approximate usage (or a recent bill) if you have it
If you’re rushing
You can still compare using typical usage. If you later add your actual kWh figures, your ranking can change (especially if you use more electricity than average).
Get your quote
How to choose the cheapest fixed deal (without getting caught out)
1) Compare on your estimated annual cost
Don’t judge by unit rate alone. A tariff with a slightly higher unit rate but a lower standing charge (or better day/night split) can be cheaper for your home.
2) Check the contract length vs your plans
If you may move, renovate, or change usage (e.g. new heat pump or EV), a long fix can limit flexibility unless exit fees are low.
3) Treat exit fees as part of the price
Many fixes charge exit fees per fuel (gas and electricity). If you might switch again in a few months, a “cheap” fix can become expensive.
4) Match the tariff to your meter type
Prepayment and Economy 7 deals can price differently. Make sure you’re comparing tariffs available for your meter and payment method.
Timing note: Switching isn’t instant. If your aim is “before April”, focus on when your new supplier will start billing you on the new tariff. Your supplier will tell you the supply start date during the switch.
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
Scenario A: Typical dual-fuel home, wants certainty
- Assumed usage
- 2,700 kWh electricity + 11,500 kWh gas/year (typical domestic profile)
- Current tariff
- SVT (price-capped), paying by Direct Debit
- Fixed option found
- 12-month fix estimated at £1,680/year, exit fees £50 per fuel
- What this means
- If April prices rise meaningfully, this fix could protect you from increases. If prices fall or you switch early, the exit fees could wipe out any benefit. The “cheapest” fix is the one that stays competitive after fees for your likely switching behaviour.
Scenario B: Electric-heavy flat, might move soon
- Assumed usage
- 4,200 kWh electricity/year, no gas
- Constraint
- May move in 5–6 months
- Fixed option found
- 24-month fix estimated at £1,120/year, exit fee £100
- What this means
- Even if the annual estimate looks strong, moving could trigger an exit fee (unless you can transfer the tariff). A shorter fix or a competitive SVT might be a better fit if flexibility matters more than certainty.
Figures are illustrative examples to show how exit fees and usage can change the “cheapest” answer. Your rates depend on region, meter and availability.
Fixed vs variable before April: quick comparison
Use this to decide what to prioritise when you compare. (Names vary by supplier: “SVT”, “standard tariff”, or “variable tariff”.)
| What you’re comparing | Fixed tariff | SVT (price-capped) |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rates & standing charges | Typically fixed for the contract term (check if any parts can change) | Can change when the Ofgem cap updates (usually quarterly) |
| Exit fees | Common (often per fuel). Check the amount and when it applies | Usually none |
| Best for | People who want certainty and plan to stay put for the term | People who prefer flexibility or expect prices to fall |
| Availability | Varies by region, meter type, credit checks, and supplier appetite | Widely available as the default tariff with your supplier |
| April “price rise” impact | Not directly linked to the cap once you’re fixed (but your fix could be higher already) | Your rates may change at the cap update |
Decision checklist: who a fix suits (and who it doesn’t)
A fixed deal may suit you if…
- You want predictable unit rates for budgeting
- You expect to stay in your home for 12+ months
- The fix is competitive on your estimated annual cost
- Exit fees are low enough for your risk tolerance
- You’re comfortable paying a bit more to avoid price spikes
A fixed deal may not suit you if…
- You may move or switch soon (exit fees risk)
- Your usage could change a lot (new EV, heat pump, extension)
- You’re on Economy 7 and the fix has poor night rates
- You’re on prepay and the fix options are limited or higher
- You want to benefit quickly if prices fall
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
These are the reasons people think they’ve found the cheapest fix, then regret it. Use this checklist before you apply.
Exit fees (often per fuel)
A dual-fuel exit fee can be charged twice (gas + electricity). If you might switch after April anyway, include the fee in your “true cost”.
Direct Debit assumptions
Many headline prices assume monthly Direct Debit. Paying on receipt of bill is often pricier, so compare using your actual payment method.
Meter type restrictions
Prepayment, Economy 7 and some smart meter configurations can limit tariff availability. Always filter to tariffs you can actually take.
Standing charge differences
A low unit rate can hide a high standing charge. This matters most for low-usage homes (small flats, frequent travel).
Economy 7 rate split
If you don’t use enough electricity overnight, Economy 7 can cost more. Compare using your day/night usage if possible.
Application/credit checks
Some suppliers may run checks or have eligibility rules. If you’re declined, you can still choose another tariff—don’t assume the cheapest is guaranteed.
Rule of thumb: If a fixed deal only looks cheaper because it assumes lower usage than you actually have, it may not be cheaper in real life. If you can, compare using your annual kWh from a recent bill.
FAQs: cheapest fixed deal before April (UK)
Is it better to fix before the April price cap change?
It depends. Fixing can protect you from a cap increase, but fixed deals can be higher than the SVT today and may include exit fees. The best approach is to compare your estimated annual cost on a fixed tariff versus staying on (or moving to) an SVT, then weigh the value of certainty.
Does the Ofgem price cap apply to fixed tariffs?
No. The price cap applies to the rates suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs (and certain default tariffs), for typical usage. Fixed tariffs are priced by suppliers and can be above or below the cap.
How long does an energy switch take in the UK?
Many switches complete within a few working days, but timescales can vary (for example, if there are meter or account issues). Your new supplier should confirm the expected start date. If you’re switching close to April, focus on the confirmed supply start date rather than the date you applied.
Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
Sometimes. Rules can depend on how you pay (credit vs prepayment) and the level of debt. If you’re struggling, it can help to speak to your supplier and check independent guidance. In some cases, you may be able to switch under specific conditions or debt repayment arrangements.
I’ve got a smart meter—will a fixed deal still work?
Usually yes. Most fixed tariffs are compatible with smart meters, but not all specialist tariffs are available in all regions or meter setups. If your smart meter has lost smart functionality, it should still operate as a normal meter and you can typically still switch.
What’s the difference between unit rate and standing charge?
The unit rate is what you pay per kWh of energy used. The standing charge is a daily fixed amount to cover network and supplier costs. A tariff can look cheap on unit rate but be expensive overall if the standing charge is high (especially for low usage).
Do I need my annual kWh to get the cheapest result?
It helps. Comparisons can use typical usage, but your actual kWh gives a more accurate estimated annual cost and can change which tariff is “cheapest” for you—particularly if your home is electric-heavy, has storage heaters, or has an EV.
Will my Direct Debit change when I switch?
Often, yes. Suppliers set Direct Debits based on estimated annual cost and may review it after meter readings. If you can, submit an up-to-date meter reading at switch time to reduce the chance of billing surprises.
Trust, methodology and sources
Editorial information
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- April 2026
How we assess “cheapest fixed deal”
Because fixed tariffs vary by region and eligibility, we don’t present a single universal “cheapest tariff”. Instead, we help you identify the cheapest for your home using like-for-like comparison.
- Like-for-like pricing: We compare available tariffs using your postcode to reflect regional electricity distribution and gas network pricing.
- Estimated annual cost: Where your exact usage isn’t provided, we use typical domestic usage benchmarks to illustrate outcomes. If you provide kWh, that becomes the basis for the estimate.
- Meter and payment filters: We consider eligibility constraints such as prepayment and Economy 7, and payment method differences where suppliers price separately.
- Fees and terms: We highlight exit fees and contract length because they affect the effective cost if you switch again.
Limitations: Supplier availability changes quickly and some tariffs are withdrawn without notice. Estimated annual costs are not a guarantee of what you’ll pay. Your actual bills depend on usage, meter readings, VAT rules for domestic supply, and any changes to your circumstances.
Independent sources we use
Ready to check the cheapest fixed deals for your home?
Get an estimated comparison based on your postcode, meter type and payment method—then decide with confidence before April.
Note: The secondary button takes you back to the comparison section. If you want help choosing, use the form and we’ll guide you through meter type, eligibility and key terms.
Back to EV Charger