Will my switch be rejected if I don’t have a smart meter?

No. Not having a smart meter should not stop you from switching. Suppliers may ask for recent meter readings and your address details to set up your account accurately.

Do I have to accept a smart meter to switch supplier?

No. Switching supplier does not require you to have a smart meter installed. If a supplier offers a smart meter appointment, it’s typically optional, and you can choose to keep your current meter and provide readings instead.

If I already have a smart meter, will it still work after I switch?

In most cases, yes. Many smart meters (especially SMETS2) keep smart functionality after you switch. Some older meters may temporarily lose smart features and operate like a standard meter until they are fully enrolled, but your supply and billing will continue normally.

How do I switch energy supplier without a smart meter?

Choose a tariff, apply with your new supplier, and provide your opening meter readings when requested. Taking clear photos of your gas and electricity meters on the day your switch completes can help ensure accurate opening readings and avoid billing issues.

What meter readings do I need when switching?

You’ll usually need opening readings for electricity (and gas if you have it). If you have Economy 7 or other multi-rate electricity, you’ll need separate day/night readings. Your supplier may also ask for recent readings during the application to estimate costs more accurately.

Will switching without a smart meter affect my price or tariff options?

Not necessarily. Many tariffs are available to customers with standard meters. Some smart-only tariffs or features may require a smart meter, but you can still access a wide range of competitive fixed and variable tariffs without one.

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

A supplier switch is typically completed within around 5 working days (timescales can vary). You’ll be told your expected switch date, and you’ll usually have a cooling-off period after you apply.

Can I switch if I’m on a prepayment meter and don’t have a smart meter?

Often, yes. Many suppliers support prepayment customers, though options can vary depending on your meter type and circumstances. If you’re unsure what type you have, your current supplier can confirm it.

Will I have to pay exit fees to switch?

Only if your current tariff has exit fees (common on some fixed deals). Check your current plan’s terms before switching. If you’re close to the end of a fixed term, you may be able to switch without fees.

What can I do to avoid problems with bills when switching?

Provide accurate opening readings, keep photos of your meters, and make sure the address details match what’s on your current account. If you have multi-rate electricity, submit all relevant readings (e.g., day/night).

Where can I compare and switch to Energy Plus?

You can explore Energy Plus guides and switching information at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/guidesfaqs/ and start your switch via the relevant sign-up or tariff pages on https://www.energyplus.co.uk/.

Can I switch energy supplier without a smart meter in the UK?

Q: Can I switch energy supplier without a smart meter in the UK?

Yes. You can switch energy supplier in the UK without having a smart meter. You can switch with a traditional (credit) meter or a prepayment meter, and your new supplier will use meter readings to bill you (or estimated readings if you don’t provide them).

Yes. You can switch gas and electricity supplier with a traditional meter, a smart meter, or even if your smart meter isn’t working smart. Compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus and switch in minutes.

No smart meter required – manual readings are fine
Compare tariffs across the market (home energy)
Keep your supply – your lights and heating stay on
We guide you through readings, timings, and common pitfalls

Compare & switch (no smart meter needed) Read FAQs

For UK households. Switching is free. You’ll be asked for an opening meter reading if you don’t have a working smart meter.

Switch supplier without a smart meter – compare whole-of-market deals

You do not need a smart meter to change energy supplier in the UK. Your new supplier can set up your account using the details from your current bill and an opening meter reading (gas and/or electricity). If you’re on a standard meter, you’ll simply provide readings manually when asked.

EnergyPlus compares home energy tariffs across the market to help you find a deal that suits your usage and preferences. Whether you pay by Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, or use a prepayment meter, switching is usually straightforward.

Good to know: If you already have a smart meter, switching is still possible even if it has stopped sending automatic readings (often called “dumb mode”). You can submit manual readings and continue the switch.

What you’ll usually need (no smart meter)

Postcode and address
Current supplier (if known)
Payment method (e.g., monthly Direct Debit)
Estimated usage (kWh) or your latest bill
Opening meter reading on the day your switch completes

Get comparison results

Complete the form and we’ll show tariffs you can switch to – smart meter not required.

Postcode Home type Fuel

Do you have a smart meter?

No Yes

How switching works

By submitting you agree to be contacted about your comparison results. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and support your switch.

Why switching without a smart meter is still worth doing

Access competitive tariffs

Most UK home energy tariffs are available whether you have a smart meter or not. The key difference is how readings are collected.

No disruption to supply

Switching changes the company that bills you – not the pipes or wires. Your gas and electricity should stay on throughout.

Stay in control of billing

Manual readings can help avoid estimated bills. You can submit readings monthly (or when asked) to keep charges accurate.

Switch even if your smart meter is “dumb”

Some smart meters lose smart functions after a switch. You can still switch supplier again and submit readings manually in the meantime.

Support for prepayment

If you’re on a prepayment meter, some deals may be limited, but switching may still be possible depending on your meter type and supplier criteria.

You can get a smart meter later

If you want one, your supplier can usually arrange installation after you’ve switched. It’s not required to access better tariffs.

How switching energy supplier works without a smart meter

A smart meter mainly automates readings. Without one, the process is still the same: you choose a tariff, the new supplier manages the transfer, and you provide a meter reading around the switch date.

Compare tariffs based on your usage, payment method and preferences.
Apply to switch – your new supplier contacts your current supplier and sets a switch date.
Take an opening meter reading when prompted (or on the switch date). This helps create accurate final and first bills.
New supplier starts billing you – your account is live, and you can submit readings manually going forward.

Tip: Keep a photo of your meter reading on the day you switch. If there’s ever a billing query, you have a clear record.

Meter readings, estimated bills and your switch

Without a smart meter sending automatic data, the main thing to get right is meter readings. Readings affect your final bill from your old supplier and your first bill from your new supplier.

When to take your readings

On the switch date (or within a day either side if instructed).
When your new supplier asks for an opening reading.
Any time you receive an estimated bill and want to correct it.

How to avoid billing issues

Submit readings promptly to both suppliers if requested.
Make sure you read the correct meter (gas vs electric; day vs night registers).
Keep evidence (photo) and note the date and time.

If you have Economy 7 / multi-rate electricity

Some homes have two electricity readings (e.g., day and night). You can still switch without a smart meter, but it’s important to submit both register readings so your bills are accurate. If you’re unsure which is which, check your bill or ask your supplier to confirm.

Smart meter vs traditional meter: what changes when you switch?

The tariff options are often similar. The biggest differences are how readings are handled and what you see in-app or on an in-home display.

Topic	Traditional meter (no smart)	Smart meter
Switching eligibility	Usually eligible to switch supplier and tariff.	Usually eligible too; meter may remain smart or temporarily lose smart features.
Readings	Manual readings submitted by you.	Automatic readings (when connected) or manual if needed.
Billing accuracy	Accurate when you provide regular readings; otherwise may be estimated.	Typically accurate due to automatic readings.
In-home display / usage insights	Usually not available.	Often available via in-home display or supplier app.
Installation	No appointment required unless meter needs replacing.	Requires an installation appointment if you don’t already have one.

Important: Your meter type doesn’t determine the unit rates and standing charges you can be offered – suppliers price based on tariff rules, region, payment type and usage assumptions.

Common switching mistakes (and how to avoid them)

1) Not giving an opening reading

If you don’t provide a reading, suppliers may estimate usage at the handover. Provide readings promptly and keep a photo for your records.

2) Confusing meter registers

Economy 7 or multi-rate meters show more than one reading. Submit all registers exactly as shown to avoid billing errors.

3) Trying to switch with debt (prepayment)

If you’re on a prepayment meter with outstanding debt, switching may be restricted. Check your balance and supplier terms first.

4) Cancelling Direct Debit too early

Wait until your final bill is settled. Cancelling early can trigger missed payments or delays in closing your account.

Need help? Use the comparison form and we’ll guide you through what to enter – including options if you don’t have a smart meter.

FAQs: switching energy supplier without a smart meter

Can I switch electricity supplier without a smart meter?

Yes. A smart meter isn’t required. You’ll typically provide an opening meter reading around the switch date and then submit readings manually (or when requested) to keep billing accurate.

Can I switch gas supplier without a smart meter?

Yes. The switch process is the same – you’ll just need to provide a gas meter reading at the handover point if readings aren’t being sent automatically.

Will my supply be cut off if I switch?

No. Switching changes who bills you, not the physical supply. Your gas and electricity should stay on throughout the process.

Do I need to tell my current supplier I’m switching?

Usually not. Your new supplier will handle the switch. You may still want to check your contract end date and any exit fees if you’re on a fixed tariff.

What if I don’t know my usage in kWh?

That’s common. You can estimate based on your home type and occupancy, or use your latest bill. The comparison form can still produce results even if you don’t have exact figures.

Can a supplier refuse to take me on if I don’t have a smart meter?

Most standard tariffs don’t require a smart meter. Some specialised tariffs (for example, tariffs that rely on half-hourly data) may require one. We show eligible options based on what you enter.

What if I have a smart meter that isn’t sending readings?

You can still switch. If your meter isn’t communicating, you’ll provide manual readings like a traditional meter. Your new supplier may be able to restore smart functionality later.

How long does switching take?

Timeframes can vary by supplier and meter type, but many switches complete within a few working days. You’ll be told your expected switch date during the application.

Trusted switching support for UK households

“Clear and straightforward.”
I don’t have a smart meter and still managed to switch with accurate readings. The steps were easy to follow.

Homeowner, Manchester

“Helpful guidance on readings.”
The reminder to take a photo of the meter reading saved me time when my final bill came through.

Tenant, Birmingham

“Found a better deal quickly.”
Compared options without being forced into a smart meter. The form was quick and the results made sense.

Family home, Glasgow

What we do: We help you compare and apply to switch. Your supplier will confirm tariffs, eligibility and the final switch date.

Ready to switch without a smart meter?

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and start your switch today. If you don’t have a smart meter, you’ll simply provide an opening reading when the changeover happens.

Works for gas, electricity, or dual fuel
Manual readings supported
Clear next steps and reminders

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Updated on 27 Dec 2025