Best Time to Switch UK Energy Supplier Now

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.

However, that is not the only good time to change. You should also think about switching when:

• Your fixed deal has already ended and you are on a standard variable tariff.
• 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 modern switching is quick, 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.

How the Ofgem price cap and seasons affect the best time to switch

For most homes on standard variable tariffs, prices are influenced 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.

This matters when you are choosing the best time to switch:

• Before a price cap increase – If forecasts suggest the price cap is going up, locking in a competitive fixed tariff beforehand can protect you from higher rates.
• After a price cap decrease – When the cap falls, variable tariffs can become cheaper. It may be worth switching to, or staying on, a good variable tariff until fixed deals look attractive again.
• Seasonal usage – Your gas and electricity use is higher in autumn and winter. Switching to a cheaper tariff before the colder months can significantly reduce your total annual spend.

Our guidance is to look ahead at the next 6–12 months. If your current tariff is due to end before or during winter, you will usually benefit from switching in advance, so you are not caught on a high default rate when your usage is at its peak.

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.

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). These are usually much 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 usually right now – the sooner you move, the sooner you can save.
• Check whether a fixed tariff would protect you from likely price cap increases.

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 by the existing supplier at that property.
• 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.

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.

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.
• The projected cost on a cheaper tariff, minus any exit fee.

If the new tariff saves more than the exit fees before your fix ends, switching early could still be the best option.

Watch out for multiple exit fees

If you have a dual fuel tariff (gas and electricity together), you may pay two exit fees – one for each fuel. Always look at the total before making your decision.

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. Your fixed deal ends in the next 7 weeks – You are in the no-fee switching window.
2. Your latest bill is much higher – Even after accounting for increased usage, this may mean you are on a poor-value tariff.
3. You receive a price rise email – When your supplier announces changes, it is the perfect time to compare alternatives.
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. The earlier you act, the more you can potentially save over the next 12 months.

How long does switching UK energy supplier take?

Most domestic energy switches in the UK are now completed in around 5 working days, thanks to industry improvements and the Energy Switch Guarantee. 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

Is it better to switch energy supplier in winter or summer?

You use more energy in autumn and winter, so being on a cheaper tariff during these months has a bigger impact on your annual bill. That said, the prices themselves are not restricted to any season. The best time is whenever you can move from your current tariff to a genuinely cheaper or better value deal, especially before your fixed rate ends.

How often can I switch energy supplier?

There is no limit on how many times you can switch, but if you are on a fixed tariff with exit fees, you should avoid jumping too often or those fees will wipe out your savings. If you are on a variable tariff with no fees, you can switch whenever a clearly better deal becomes available.

Will my energy supply be interrupted if I switch?

No. Your gas and electricity are delivered through the same cables and pipes. Only your billing company and tariff change, so you will not experience any loss of supply.

Can I switch if I am in debt to my current supplier?

If you have been in debt for less than 28 days, your outstanding balance will usually be added to your final bill. If you owe more than this, you may be asked to clear or agree a plan for the debt before switching. Always contact your current supplier to discuss your situation.

Is it still worth switching with the price cap in place?

Yes. The price cap limits what suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs, but it does not fix every price and it does not apply in the same way to all fixed deals. Competitive tariffs can still offer lower unit rates or better terms than your current deal, so it is always worth checking.