How to Switch to the Cheapest Fixed Gas Tariff Today (June 2026)
The 1 July cap rise is weeks away. Switching to a fixed gas deal today takes around five working days and could save you over £200 a year. Here is exactly how to do it.
Why switch before 1 July 2026?
On 27 May 2026, Ofgem confirmed the Q3 price cap will rise to £1,862/yr for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit. That is a 13% jump from the current Q2 cap of £1,641/yr. From 1 July, the unit rates become:
- Gas: 7.33p/kWh + 29.04p/day standing charge
- Electricity: 26.11p/kWh + 57.19p/day standing charge
Gas bills alone are projected to rise by around 24% on the variable cap. A competitive fixed deal locked in today protects you from that increase for the full term of your contract.
Around 22 million accounts (roughly 40% of households) are already on fixed deals and will not see the July rise. If you are still on a standard variable tariff, switching now is the single most effective action you can take on your energy bill this month.
What you need before you start
Current meter reading
A fresh gas meter reading avoids estimated final bills from your old supplier. Take it on the morning you submit your switch.
Your postcode
Rates vary slightly by region. Comparison tools use your postcode to show accurate unit rates for your area.
Annual gas usage (kWh)
Find this on a recent bill or statement. A typical home uses around 11,500 kWh/yr. Using an accurate figure gives realistic annual cost quotes.
Bank account details
Most fixed deals require a direct debit to qualify for the advertised rate. Have your sort code and account number ready.
Current supplier and tariff name
Check your bill or online account. You will need this to confirm any exit fee that applies and to tell the new supplier who to contact.
Email address
Your new supplier will send confirmation emails and a welcome pack. Make sure the address you use is one you check regularly.
Compare live fixed gas deals now
Enter your details below to see the best fixed tariffs available in your area. Takes 60 seconds and there is no obligation.
How to switch your gas tariff today: step by step
- Take a meter reading -- do this just before you start your comparison so the figure is fresh.
- Run a comparison -- use the form above or a comparison site. Filter by fixed tariffs only, sorted by annual cost. Focus on 12-month fixes if you want flexibility; 24-month deals can offer slightly cheaper rates but tie you in longer.
- Check the exit fee on your current tariff -- if you are already on a fixed deal, look at the remaining months and the per-fuel exit fee. For variable cap customers there is no exit fee at all.
- Select your new tariff and apply -- this takes around five to ten minutes online. You will need the details listed above. The new supplier contacts your existing one directly; you do not need to cancel anything yourself.
- Wait for your welcome pack -- your new supplier sends a confirmation email and a switch date, usually within one to two working days.
- The switch completes in around five working days -- under the Switch Guarantee, your supply transfers without interruption. Gas continues to flow; only the billing relationship changes.
- Submit your opening meter reading -- on the switch date, your new supplier will ask for a reading. This becomes the billing start point. Your old supplier uses the same reading for your final bill.
- 14-day cooling-off period -- if you change your mind after signing up, you can cancel for free within 14 days of receiving your welcome pack with no penalty.
Timing note: To be certain your new fixed rate is in place before 1 July, aim to submit your switch no later than 23 June 2026. Most switches complete within five working days, but leaving a small buffer is sensible.
Illustrative fixed deals available in June 2026
The table below shows indicative annual costs for a typical home (11,500 kWh gas/yr). Exact figures vary by region, payment method, and the date you apply. Use the comparison above to get your personalised quotes.
| Supplier | Tariff type | Indicative annual cost | vs July cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| E.ON Next | Fixed 12M | ~£1,602/yr | -£260 |
| Octopus Energy | Fixed 12M | ~£1,632/yr | -£230 |
| Variable cap (Q3 2026) | Standard variable | £1,862/yr | benchmark |
Figures are illustrative for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit. Gas-only costs will differ. Always confirm live rates with the supplier before signing up.
Exit fees: when do they apply?
Exit fees only apply if you are currently on a fixed tariff and leaving it before the end date. They do not apply if you are on a standard variable tariff (which includes all default cap tariffs). Key points:
- Typical exit fees are £30 to £50 per fuel (so up to £100 dual-fuel).
- Within the final 49 days of your fixed term, most suppliers waive exit fees entirely -- check your welcome letter.
- Compare the exit fee against the annual saving. A £50 exit fee is recovered in around two to three months on a deal £260/yr cheaper.
- Suppliers must tell you the exit fee amount when you request a switch. They cannot charge more than the amount stated in your contract.
Frequently asked questions
Will my gas supply be cut off during the switch?
No. Under the Switch Guarantee your supply is continuous. The pipe infrastructure stays the same; only the company billing you changes. You will not notice any interruption on switch day.
How long does switching gas take?
Typically around five working days from the date you apply, under the current Switch Guarantee rules. Some suppliers complete it faster. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your welcome pack if you change your mind.
Can I switch gas without switching electricity?
Yes. You can switch gas and electricity independently to different suppliers, or move just one of the two fuels. If both fuels are with the same supplier you can move either or both. Some comparison deals are dual-fuel bundles, so filter to gas-only if that is what you need.
What happens to my credit balance when I switch?
Your old supplier must refund any credit balance within 10 working days of your final bill. Final bills are typically issued within six weeks of the switch date. If you owe money, your old supplier will invoice you separately.
Is a smart meter required to switch?
No, a smart meter is not required. You can switch with a traditional meter and submit manual readings. Some suppliers offer a modest discount for smart-meter customers, but it is not a barrier to switching.
Which suppliers are currently reputable for fixed gas deals?
Suppliers with solid track records on fixed deals in June 2026 include Octopus Energy, E.ON Next, EDF, OVO, British Gas, Utility Warehouse, and Good Energy. Always check Trustpilot and Ofgem supplier ratings before committing.
What is the Ofgem price cap rising to in July 2026?
Ofgem confirmed on 27 May 2026 that the Q3 2026 cap (July to September) will be £1,862/yr for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit. That is an increase of £221 (13%) from the current Q2 level of £1,641/yr. Gas unit rates from 1 July will be 7.33p/kWh with a 29.04p/day standing charge.
Should I choose a 12-month or 24-month fixed deal?
A 12-month fix gives you flexibility to switch again when it expires, which is useful if rates fall. A 24-month deal may offer a slightly lower rate but locks you in longer. Given current market uncertainty, many households prefer the flexibility of a 12-month fix and review again next summer.
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