Is a fix-and-fall tariff better than a standard variable tariff in January 2026?

It depends on your risk tolerance and how long you want price certainty. A standard variable tariff can move up or down (often influenced by the Ofgem price cap), while a fix-and-fall tariff is designed to protect you from increases while still allowing reductions under the tariff’s terms. If you want protection against rises but don’t want to miss potential decreases, a fix-and-fall option may suit you.

How do fix-and-fall tariffs reduce my price if wholesale costs fall?

If the supplier’s underlying rates for the tariff fall during your fixed period, a fix-and-fall structure may pass those reductions on to you. The exact mechanism varies by supplier and product, so check whether reductions apply automatically, how often prices can change, and which charges (unit rates and/or standing charges) may reduce.

Do fix-and-fall tariffs have exit fees?

Many fixed-style tariffs can include exit fees if you leave before the end of the term, though this varies by deal. Always check the Key Facts/Terms for any early exit fee, when it applies, and whether there is a penalty-free switching window near the end of your contract.

Should I fix my energy tariff for 12 or 24 months?

A 12-month fix typically offers shorter commitment and flexibility, while a 24-month fix can extend price protection for longer. Consider how long you want certainty, whether there are exit fees, and how comfortable you are with market changes. If you want flexibility to re-evaluate sooner, 12 months may be preferable; if you value longer-term protection, 24 months may suit you.

Can I switch to a fix-and-fall tariff if I’m currently in a fixed deal?

You can usually switch, but you may have to pay an exit fee if you leave your current fixed tariff early. Check your current contract end date and any early termination charges before switching.

How do I choose the best fix-and-fall energy tariff in the UK?

Compare the unit rates and standing charges, contract length, exit fees, and how/when price reductions can apply. Also consider customer service, billing options, and whether the tariff fits your household usage pattern. For the fastest route to a suitable deal, have a recent bill to hand and confirm your postcode, payment method and meter type.

Is a fix-and-fall tariff the same as being on the Ofgem price cap?

No. The Ofgem price cap applies to default (standard variable) tariffs and sets a limit on what suppliers can charge typical customers. A fix-and-fall tariff is a specific fixed-style product with its own pricing rules and contract terms; it is not the price cap itself.

Will my standing charge also fall on a fix-and-fall tariff?

Not always. Some tariffs may only adjust unit rates, while others could adjust unit rates and/or standing charges. Check the tariff details to see which components can change and how reductions are calculated.

What information do I need to switch energy tariff quickly?

Typically you’ll need your address and postcode, your current supplier name, a recent meter reading (or smart meter details), your payment method preference (Direct Debit, etc.), and bank details if setting up a new Direct Debit. Having an annual usage estimate from a recent bill can help you compare costs more accurately.

How long does it take to switch energy supplier in the UK?

Switching often completes within a few working days under faster switching, though timings can vary depending on the supplier and meter setup. You’ll usually receive a confirmation of your switch date, and your supply won’t be interrupted during the process.

Best fix and fall energy tariff UK (January 2026)

Q: What is a fix-and-fall energy tariff?

A fix-and-fall energy tariff is a type of fixed deal where your unit rates and standing charges are protected if prices rise, but can also reduce if the supplier’s rates fall during your fixed term (subject to the tariff’s rules). This aims to combine bill protection with the chance to benefit from price drops.

Compare whole-of-market fixed, variable and tracker deals built around a “fix and fall” approach: lock in when rates are high, then review and switch when prices drop. Check what you could pay in minutes with EnergyPlus.co.uk.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not just a limited panel)
Personalised results using your postcode, usage and meter type
Switch support and clear guidance on exit fees, standing charges and T&Cs
Designed for January 2026 decisions: price cap, seasonal use and renewal timing

Compare fix & fall tariffs How fix-and-fall works

EnergyPlus is a UK home energy comparison service. Results depend on your region, meter and usage. We’ll show key tariff details before you apply. No business energy.

Find the best fix-and-fall tariff for your home

“Fix and fall” isn’t a single official tariff type. It’s a switching strategy many UK households use: fix for price certainty (especially through winter), then review and switch when market rates and/or the Ofgem price cap move down.

In January 2026, the best fix-and-fall option is usually the deal that balances:

Competitive unit rates (p/kWh) for electricity and gas
Standing charges (daily) that suit your usage pattern
Exit fees and contract length (so you can switch later if prices fall)
Payment type (Direct Debit, pay on receipt of bill, prepayment where available)
Meter type (credit, smart, Economy 7/10)

Tip for January renewals: if your fixed deal ends soon, compare rates now and check whether your current supplier allows you to switch within the final 49 days without an exit fee (terms vary; we highlight it where possible).

Get personalised results

Looking for a “no-regrets” option? Many households choose a shorter fixed term (e.g., 12 months) with low exit fees, then review when prices fall. We’ll show those details clearly.

Accessibility note: the form is displayed in a two-column layout on larger screens. On mobile, the grid stacks so the form spans full width.

What is a “fix and fall” energy tariff strategy?

A fix-and-fall approach usually means you choose a fixed-rate tariff now (to reduce bill volatility), while planning ahead to switch when the market becomes cheaper. It’s particularly relevant around winter because:

Winter consumption is higher for many homes, so price certainty can help budgeting.
Price cap changes can affect standard variable tariffs (SVTs) and influence the wider market.
Promotional fixes can appear when suppliers compete for switching volumes after cap movements.

The “best fix-and-fall tariff” in January 2026 therefore tends to be the fixed deal that is good value today and flexible enough to leave later if rates drop.

Why households use a fix-and-fall approach

Budget certainty now

A fixed unit rate can make monthly payments more predictable during high-usage months, helping you avoid spikes if variable prices rise.

Opportunity to switch later

If prices fall, a plan with sensible exit fees (or none) makes it easier to move to a cheaper tariff without waiting years.

Whole-bill view

The best deal isn’t always the lowest unit rate—standing charges and your usage pattern matter. Comparison helps you choose what’s actually cheaper for your home.

Works for different meter types

Credit meters, smart meters and Economy 7 households can all compare suitable tariffs, including options optimised for off-peak use.

Avoid “sticky” SVT pricing

If you roll onto a standard variable tariff after your fix ends, you could miss cheaper fixed deals available to switchers.

Clear renewal plan

Fix now, diarise a review date, compare again and switch if it’s cheaper—simple, repeatable and less stressful than guessing the market.

If you’re unsure, start by comparing tariffs with: (1) low standing charges, (2) competitive unit rates, and (3) manageable exit fees. That combination often suits a fix-and-fall plan.

How to pick the best fix-and-fall tariff in January 2026

1) Confirm your end date

Check when your current fix ends and whether early switching is fee-free near the end of term. Start comparing before you roll onto an SVT.

2) Choose your “review window”

If you want the option to switch when prices fall, avoid long fixes with high exit fees unless the saving is substantial.

3) Compare the whole bill

Unit rates matter most for high-usage homes; standing charges matter more for low usage. Compare using your postcode and typical consumption.

4) Switch and set a reminder

Once you’ve fixed, diarise a check-in (e.g., 3–6 months) to see whether new tariffs or price cap changes make switching worthwhile.

January 2026 shortlist criteria

Fixed term: commonly 12 months for flexibility (but compare 18–24 months if pricing is meaningfully lower).
Exit fees: check per fuel and when they apply.
Standing charge: compare daily costs, not just headline unit rates.
Payment method: Direct Debit deals can differ from pay-on-receipt.
Tariff type: fixed vs tracker vs variable (and whether you’re comfortable with price movement).

When is a tracker better than a fix?

A tracker can suit a “fall” phase because it may drop more quickly when wholesale prices fall. But it can also rise. If you need predictable bills for winter, a fixed deal may be safer.

Compare both in the results and focus on realistic monthly cost for your home.

Fix vs variable vs tracker: quick comparison (UK homes)

Tariff type	Best for	Main trade-off	Fix-and-fall fit
Fixed	Households wanting predictable unit rates and budgeting control.	May include exit fees; you might pay more if market prices fall.	Strong “fix” phase; choose flexible terms for the “fall” phase.
Standard variable (SVT)	Short-term stopgap if you need flexibility.	Prices can change; often not the cheapest option for many homes.	Useful as a bridge, but compare—fixed deals can beat SVT pricing.
Tracker	Those comfortable with price movement and wanting rates to fall quickly if the market falls.	Can rise as well as fall; not ideal if you need certainty.	Often good for the “fall” phase, but assess risk and bill impact.

What to check before you switch (January 2026 checklist)

Item	Why it matters	Quick guidance
Standing charge	A higher standing charge can outweigh a lower unit rate, especially for low-usage homes.	Compare total estimated annual cost, not just p/kWh.
Exit fees	Key to a fix-and-fall plan—fees can limit your ability to switch when prices fall.	Prefer low/none if you anticipate switching within months.
Meter type	Economy 7/10 and smart meters can have different rate structures.	Match tariffs to how you use energy (day vs night usage).
Payment method	Prices can vary between Direct Debit and other payment methods.	Select your preferred method when comparing to avoid mismatches.

Reminder: energy prices and availability vary by region. A deal that’s “best” in one postcode may not be best in another. Use the form above to see what you can actually switch to.

Common fix-and-fall mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Focusing only on unit rate

Standing charges can be a big part of your bill. Always compare estimated annual cost based on your usage.

Choosing a long fix “just in case”

A 24–36 month fix can reduce flexibility. If your goal is to switch when prices fall, check contract length and exit fees first.

Ignoring the end-of-fix window

Many suppliers allow switching in the final weeks without fees. Plan early so you can line up a better deal before you roll onto an SVT.

Not matching tariff to your home

Economy 7 households, electric heating and EV charging can benefit from different structures. Compare with the right meter and usage assumptions.

FAQs: best fix-and-fall energy tariffs in January 2026

Is “fix and fall” a real tariff?

No—it's a strategy. You typically pick a fixed tariff now, then monitor the market and switch to a cheaper fixed or tracker deal if prices fall later.

What contract length works best for a fix-and-fall plan?

Many households prefer around 12 months for flexibility, but the best length depends on pricing, exit fees and how soon you think you might switch. The key is that your deal should be competitive now and not overly restrictive later.

Can I switch energy supplier in winter?

Yes. Switching supplier doesn’t interrupt your energy supply. Your gas and electricity still come through the same pipes and wires, and your new supplier handles the admin.

How do I know if a deal is actually cheaper for my home?

Look at the estimated annual cost for your usage and postcode, and check both standing charges and unit rates. EnergyPlus compares across the market so you can see options that fit your meter and payment method.

Are exit fees always bad?

Not necessarily. An exit fee can be worth it if the tariff price is meaningfully lower. For a fix-and-fall plan, the aim is to avoid fees so high that they stop you switching when prices drop.

Do I need my exact kWh usage to compare?

Exact figures help, but you can still start with an estimate. If you have it, use your annual kWh for electricity and gas from a recent bill or your online account for more accurate results.

Want to compare now? Go back to the comparison form and we’ll show tariffs available for your postcode.

Trusted switching support

“Clear options, no confusion”

“The comparison made it obvious what I’d pay including standing charges. I picked a fix with low exit fees so I can review later.”

UK homeowner, online switch

“Switched without hassle”

“I was worried about the process but it was straightforward. I liked seeing contract length and exit fees upfront.”

Household customer, January renewal

“Helped me choose the right tariff type”

“I didn’t know whether to fix or track. The guide and comparison helped me pick a plan that suits my usage.”

Smart meter household

Transparency matters: we focus on showing what you’ll pay, including standing charges, and the details that affect a fix-and-fall strategy (term length and exit fees).

Ready to compare the best fix-and-fall deals for January 2026?

See whole-of-market home energy tariffs available for your postcode, then choose a fixed plan that gives you price certainty now and flexibility to switch if prices fall.

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Updated on 3 Feb 2026