Energy tariffs with free electricity weekends: are they worth it?

Quick answer: it depends on when you use electricity

A tariff with free electricity at weekends can be worth it if you can reliably move a meaningful share of your electricity use into the free window. The catch is that these tariffs often have a higher weekday unit rate, a higher standing charge, or stricter terms around what “free” means.

EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs in the UK, so you can weigh weekend-free offers against how they’re structured and the real cost for your household.

Check your best options (whole-of-market)

Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariffs that fit your home—including whether a “free weekends” deal actually beats standard fixed tariffs.

Potential savings (if you shift load)

If you can move higher-consumption activities to the free window, your average unit cost can drop—especially in homes with electric-heavy routines at weekends.

Encourages better energy habits

These tariffs can make it easier to plan laundry, cooking and charging so you use electricity when it’s cheaper (or “free”), reducing waste.

But weekday rates can be higher

Some deals recover the cost with higher weekday unit rates or standing charges. If most of your usage is Mon–Fri, the maths may not work.

Terms vary by supplier

“Free weekend electricity” can mean specific hours, a cap, or electricity only (not gas). Always check the exact weekend window and exclusions.

May require a smart meter

Time-based tariffs typically need half-hourly readings. If you don’t have a smart meter, eligibility may be limited.

Not always the cheapest overall

A strong fixed tariff with a low unit rate and standing charge can beat a “free” offer—especially for low/medium usage homes.

Key parts to check before switching

• Weekend window: Is it Sat–Sun all day, or only certain hours?
• Weekday unit rate: What do you pay Mon–Fri (and outside the window)?
• Standing charge: Often the biggest hidden cost for low users
• Electricity only or dual fuel: “Free” usually applies to electricity, not gas
• Exit fees: If fixed, you may pay to leave early
• Billing method: Direct Debit discounts or paper bill charges

Do you need to change your routine?

Usually, yes. These tariffs tend to work best when you intentionally schedule usage. Examples:

• Run laundry appliances back-to-back on Saturday
• Charge devices, tools, and (if relevant) EVs during the free period
• Batch-cook and use the oven more at weekends
• Use timers/smart plugs to shift consumption safely

If you mostly use electricity on weekdays…

• Home all day Mon–Fri (WFH, electric cooking/heating)
• High daytime electricity use
• Can’t shift laundry/cooking

…a free-weekend deal is less likely to be worth it.

If you can move big loads to weekends…

• EV charging can be scheduled
• Batch washing/drying/dishwasher cycles
• Weekend-heavy occupancy

…a free-weekend deal is more likely to be worth it.

Do I need a smart meter?

Often, yes. Weekend-free and other time-of-use tariffs usually rely on half-hourly readings. If you already have a smart meter, switching is typically straightforward. If you don’t, some suppliers may still allow the tariff, but many require a smart meter to apply time-based pricing accurately.

Does “free” include gas?

Usually not. Most free weekend deals apply to electricity only. If you’re on dual fuel, check the gas rate and standing charge separately—gas costs can dominate in winter.

Why your postcode matters

Unit rates and standing charges vary across the UK due to regional network costs. That means a tariff that looks good in one region may be less competitive elsewhere.

Prepayment meters

Some promotional time-based tariffs are limited for prepayment customers. If you’re on prepay, we’ll still show available options and highlight any restrictions during comparison.

Only looking at “free” and ignoring weekday rates

If weekday rates are significantly higher than your current tariff, you may pay more overall unless you can shift enough usage.

Forgetting standing charge differences

A higher daily standing charge can wipe out savings for low/medium usage homes—even with some free weekend use.

Assuming the weekend window is “all weekend”

Some tariffs define limited hours. Always confirm the exact time window and whether bank holidays count.

Not checking how your home actually uses energy

A quick review of your recent bills (or smart meter app) helps you estimate how much electricity you can move to weekends.

Switching without considering seasonality

Winter usage can change dramatically. If your weekday usage rises in colder months, a tariff may stop being competitive.

Overloading sockets or unsafe scheduling

Shifting usage is good, but safety comes first. Follow appliance guidance and avoid running unsafe loads unattended.