Guide to UK home energy fixed tariff switching (Autumn 2026)
Thinking of fixing your gas and electricity prices for autumn 2026? This guide explains how fixed tariffs work, when to switch, and how to compare whole-of-market deals in the UK—so you can choose a tariff that fits your home and budget.
- Understand fixed vs variable tariffs, exit fees and contract length
- See the best timeframes to lock in a fix for autumn 2026
- Compare whole-of-market suppliers (not just a shortlist)
- Switch in minutes with one simple form
EnergyPlus is a UK comparison service for home energy. We show whole-of-market options where available. Switching won’t affect your electricity or gas supply—your energy still comes through the same pipes and wires.
Compare fixed tariffs for autumn 2026 and switch online
If you’re looking for price certainty going into autumn 2026, a fixed tariff can help you plan your household budget. The key is comparing like-for-like: unit rates, standing charges, contract length, exit fees and whether the tariff is a single-fuel or dual-fuel deal.
Use the form to tell us a few basics. We’ll match you with whole-of-market home energy options where available, including fixed deals that could cover autumn 2026. If you’re unsure about your usage, you can still compare—an estimate works.
Quick tip: When you switch, your supply doesn’t stop. Your gas and electricity still come through the same network. Only the billing and tariff change.
What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)
- Your postcode (to match your region and network charges)
- Whether you want gas, electricity, or both (dual fuel)
- Rough annual usage (from a bill) or your household size
- Payment preference (Direct Debit, pay on receipt, prepay where available)
Why people fix: certainty for autumn 2026 (and what to watch)
Budget stability
A fixed tariff locks your unit rates (and usually standing charges) for the contract term, which can help you plan household spending through autumn 2026 and beyond.
Protection if prices rise
If market prices increase, you stay on your agreed rates until the fix ends (unless you leave early and pay any exit fee).
Trade-off: flexibility
Fixed deals may include exit fees. If prices fall or a better deal appears, switching early could cost you—so compare total cost, not just headline rates.
Good to know: A fixed tariff doesn’t mean your monthly Direct Debit never changes. If your usage is higher or lower than expected, your supplier may adjust your payment to keep your account on track.
When should you switch for an autumn 2026 fixed tariff?
There’s no single “best day” to fix, but there are practical windows that often make sense for UK households. The right timing depends on your current tariff end date, any exit fee, and whether you’re on a standard variable tariff (SVT) or already fixed.
- Check your contract end date and any exit fee. Many fixed tariffs allow you to switch without an exit fee within a set period before the end (often around 49 days, but check your T&Cs).
- Decide what “covering autumn 2026” means for you. If you want certainty through autumn 2026, you may look at fixes that run beyond it (for example, 12–24 months depending on start date).
- Compare total cost, not just the unit rate. Standing charges can be a big part of annual cost, especially for low-usage homes.
- Avoid rolling onto a poor-value default. If your fix ends, you may move onto your supplier’s SVT. Comparing before your end date can help you stay in control.
- Switch with enough lead time. A switch typically completes in a few working days, but allow extra time if there are meter or account issues to resolve.
If you’re on an SVT
You can usually switch at any time without exit fees. Comparing fixed tariffs now can show whether a fix offers better value for your usage heading towards autumn 2026.
If you’re already fixed
Check your exit fee and your fee-free switching window. If your fix ends close to autumn 2026, you may not need a long new fix—just one that bridges the period you care about.
How to compare fixed tariffs properly (whole-of-market checklist)
A “cheap” tariff on paper can be expensive in practice if the standing charge is high or if there’s a steep exit fee. Use this checklist to compare fixed tariffs fairly for your home.
Tip for comparing: If two tariffs have similar annual costs, the one with a lower exit fee can be safer if you think you might switch again before autumn 2026 ends.
Costs, savings and exit fees: what households should expect
Switching supplier is usually free. The main “cost” to consider is whether your current tariff (or the new fixed tariff) charges an exit fee. Savings vary by household usage, region and the mix of unit rates and standing charges.
Exit fees in plain English
An exit fee is a charge for leaving a fixed tariff early. It’s commonly charged per fuel (gas and electricity separately). Some suppliers waive the fee if you switch within a set period before your contract ends—check your tariff information label or online account.
What “best value” looks like
For many homes, best value is the lowest estimated annual cost for your usage. That means considering both unit rates and standing charges, and how long you want price certainty through autumn 2026.
Common savings blockers (and how to avoid them)
- Comparing without your region: standing charges can differ by distribution area—always compare using your postcode.
- Choosing by unit rate only: for low users, the standing charge can dominate your annual bill.
- Ignoring exit fees: if you might move home or switch again before autumn 2026 ends, factor the fee into your decision.
- Not updating meter details: make sure your meter type (standard, smart, prepay) is correct for accurate quotes.
Regional considerations across the UK
Home energy pricing isn’t identical across the UK. Even on the same tariff name, your standing charge and unit rates can vary by region due to network costs.
England
Rates can vary significantly between regions (e.g. North vs South) due to electricity distribution areas. Always compare with your postcode for accurate results.
Scotland
Some network and standing charge differences can affect annual cost. If you’re in rural areas, pay special attention to standing charges and customer support access.
Wales & Northern Ireland
Wales follows Great Britain market rules with regional pricing differences. Northern Ireland has a different market structure—availability and process can differ. Use your postcode to see what applies.
Moving home before autumn 2026? Some suppliers may let you move your tariff with you, while others require a new deal. If a house move is likely, consider lower exit fees and flexible terms.
Fixed tariff switching for autumn 2026: FAQs
Will my energy go off when I switch?
No. Your gas and electricity supply stays on. Switching changes your supplier and tariff, not the physical supply.
Can I switch if I have a smart meter?
Yes. Smart meters are widely supported. If your smart functions are temporarily limited after switching, they typically resume once the new supplier completes setup.
What if I don’t know my annual usage?
You can still compare. Use a recent bill if you have one, or estimate based on your household and property size. For the most accurate results, update your usage when you find it.
Is a fixed tariff always cheaper?
Not always. A fixed tariff can be good for certainty, but if market prices fall you might pay more than a variable tariff. Compare estimated annual cost and consider exit fees before committing.
How long does a switch take in the UK?
Often a few working days, but it can take longer if there are account or meter issues. You’ll usually be kept updated by your new supplier.
Do I need to contact my current supplier?
In most cases, no. Your new supplier handles the switch. You’ll just need to provide meter readings when requested to close your old account accurately.
Want to focus specifically on fixed deals likely to cover autumn 2026? Start your comparison and select Fixed as your preference.
Why households use EnergyPlus
Whole-of-market comparison
We aim to show a broad view of UK home energy options where available, helping you compare beyond a small shortlist.
Clear cost breakdowns
We focus on the numbers that matter: estimated annual cost, unit rates, standing charges, and key tariff terms like exit fees.
Switching support
From quote to confirmation, we guide you through the steps so you understand what happens next and what to expect.
“The comparison was straightforward and the tariff details were easy to understand. Switching took less time than I expected.”
“I liked that it explained standing charges clearly. Helped me choose the best option for a low-usage flat.”
“Useful guide for fixed tariffs—exit fees and timing finally made sense.”
Trust note: Always review the tariff information and supplier terms before confirming a switch, including contract length, exit fees and payment requirements.
Ready to lock in a fixed tariff for autumn 2026?
Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs in minutes. Get clear costs, key terms, and a simple route to switch—without the guesswork.
- Postcode-based pricing for your region
- Compare unit rates, standing charges and exit fees
- Choose fixed, variable, or view both
Start your comparison
Jump back to the form to see fixed tariff options tailored to your home.
Compare & switch nowNo obligation. Switching support available if you decide to proceed.
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