Best Time to Switch UK Energy Supplier Now

Why now is a good time to switch energy supplier

Crucially, this cap only applies to standard variable tariffs – and it is a cap on unit rates, not a limit on your total bill. The cheapest fixed tariffs available right now already sit below the £1,663 price cap, so fixing now lets you sidestep the increase entirely.

When is the best time to switch your energy supplier?

The best time to switch energy supplier in the UK is usually within 49 days of your fixed tariff ending. Ofgem rules allow you to move to a new deal during this window without paying exit fees, while still staying on your old rate until the new tariff starts.

In July 2026 there is an extra reason to act: the 1 July price cap rise. You should also think about switching when:

• Your fixed deal has already ended and you are on a standard variable tariff (which tracks the rising cap).
• Your supplier announces price rises or changes to your terms.
• You have moved home and have been put on a default or deemed tariff.
• You have not switched for more than 12 months and have never checked current deals.

Because switching is free, safe and handled by your new provider, you do not need to wait for a specific month of the year. The right time to switch is normally whenever you can move to a better value tariff without losing money to exit fees – and with a cap rise days away, that time is now.

How the Ofgem price cap affects the best time to switch

For most homes on standard variable tariffs, prices are set by the Ofgem price cap. This cap is reviewed every three months and limits the unit rate and standing charge a supplier can charge a typical customer – it is not a cap on your total bill, so the more you use, the more you pay.

the capped rates for a typical direct-debit household are:

Regional and payment-method variations apply. When choosing the best time to switch, the cap matters in two ways:

• Before a price cap increase – Exactly the situation now. With the cap rising 13%, locking in a competitive fixed tariff beforehand protects you from the higher rates.
• Seasonal usage – Your gas and electricity use is higher in autumn and winter, so being on a cheaper fixed tariff before the colder months significantly reduces your total annual spend.

Our guidance is to look ahead at the next 6–12 months. With the cap going up and fixed deals already cheaper than it, switching in advance means you are not caught on a high default rate.

Best time to switch from a fixed vs standard variable tariff

1. If you are on a fixed energy tariff

Fixed tariffs give you price certainty for a set period, but often come with exit fees if you leave early. The ideal time to switch is:

• Within 49 days of your tariff end date – You can switch without exit fees, and your new tariff will usually start when your old one finishes.
• Earlier than 49 days – Only if the savings on a new tariff outweigh the exit fees you would have to pay. With the July cap rise, those savings are larger than usual.

To decide, compare:

• How much longer is left on your current tariff.
• The total exit fees (for gas and electricity).
• The estimated savings on a new tariff over the remaining weeks or months.

2. If you are on a standard variable tariff

If you have not switched for a while, you are very likely on a standard variable tariff (SVT) – and a typical SVT household will pay around £1,663 a year. These are now far more expensive than the best fixed deals.

If you are on an SVT:

• You can switch at any time with no exit fees.
• The best time to switch is right now, under the current price cap takes effect.
• The cheapest 12-month fixed deals on our live panel are typically priced below the £1,663 cap, several with no exit fees — run your postcode through the comparison on this page for today's exact prices.

Because you are not tied in, there is very little downside to comparing deals and moving as soon as you see a cheaper or better value tariff.

Best time to switch energy when you move home

Moving house changes how and when you should switch:

If you are leaving your current home

• Tell your existing supplier the date you move out and submit final meter readings.
• If you are in a fixed contract, check your terms. Some suppliers waive exit fees if you are moving, but others may charge.
• It usually makes more sense to switch at your new property rather than just before you move.

At your new home

• When you move in, you will automatically be put on a deemed or default tariff – which tracks the £1,663 cap from 1 July.
• These tariffs are rarely competitive, so the best time to switch is as soon as you have the keys and opening meter readings.
• Switching early means you avoid spending months on an expensive default rate.

How to avoid exit fees when you switch

Exit fees are one of the biggest worries for people thinking about switching. The good news is that you can often avoid them entirely – and some of the best deals have none.

Use the 49-day switching window

Ofgem rules mean your supplier cannot charge exit fees during the last 49 days of your fixed term. This is the simplest and safest time to switch.

Pick a zero-exit-fee deal

Check if the savings beat the fee

If you are more than 49 days away from your end date, compare the total cost of your remaining time on the current tariff against the projected cost on a cheaper tariff, minus any exit fee. With the cap is £1,663, the savings from fixing now often outweigh a £25–£50 exit fee.

5 clear signs that now is the right time to switch

Not sure whether you really need to switch yet? Look out for these warning signs:

1. You are on a standard variable tariff – You will pay the £1,663 cap from 1 July; a fixed deal is already cheaper.
2. Your fixed deal ends in the next 7 weeks – You are in the no-fee switching window.
3. Your latest bill is much higher – Even after accounting for increased usage, this may mean you are on a poor-value tariff.
4. You have never switched – Long-term customers are often on the worst deals.
5. You have just moved home – Deemed and default tariffs are rarely competitive, so switching quickly can cut costs.

If any of these apply, do not wait for 1 July. The earlier you act, the more you can potentially save over the next 12 months.

How long does switching UK energy supplier take?

Switching is free, and most domestic energy switches in the UK now complete in around 5 working days, thanks to industry improvements and the Energy Switch Guarantee. You can switch even if you do not have a smart meter. Here is what happens:

1. Compare tariffs and choose the deal that suits you best.
2. Apply online or over the phone with your new supplier.
3. Cooling-off period – You usually have 14 days to change your mind.
4. Meter readings – Your new supplier will ask for gas and electricity readings around your switch date.
5. Switch completes – You move to your new tariff automatically, with no interruption to your energy supply.

Your lights and heating will not go off, and you do not need any new pipes, cables, or meters to switch. It is just a change of who bills you and what prices you pay.

Frequently asked questions about the best time to switch