What is a fix and fall energy tariff?

A fix and fall energy tariff is a deal where your unit rates are fixed for an initial period, then move onto a variable rate (often linked to the price cap or your supplier’s standard variable tariff) for the remainder of the contract. It can offer short-term price certainty, followed by flexibility if prices fall. Always check exactly when the fixed period ends and what tariff you move onto afterwards.

Should I switch to a fix and fall tariff in the UK?

A fix and fall tariff can be a good choice if you want protection from near-term price rises but still want the option to benefit later if prices drop. It’s most suitable when you value budgeting certainty now and are comfortable with your rates becoming variable later. Compare the fixed unit rates, the length of the fix, and the follow-on tariff details before switching.

How is a fix and fall tariff different from a fully fixed tariff?

A fully fixed tariff typically keeps your unit rates fixed for the whole contract term (e.g., 12 months). A fix and fall tariff only fixes rates for part of the term, then switches to a variable rate for the rest. The trade-off is less long-term certainty but potentially more opportunity to benefit if market prices or the price cap fall.

What happens when the fixed period ends?

When the fixed period ends, your prices usually move onto a variable rate (commonly the supplier’s standard variable tariff or a tariff that tracks the Ofgem price cap). Check your contract for the exact name of the follow-on tariff, how it’s priced, and whether you can switch away without fees at that point.

Are there exit fees with fix and fall tariffs?

Some fix and fall tariffs include exit fees during the fixed portion of the deal. Exit fees may reduce or end once you move to the variable period, but this depends on the provider. Review the tariff information label and terms to confirm any fees and when they apply.

Can I switch supplier if I’m on a fix and fall tariff?

Yes, you can usually switch, but you may pay an exit fee if you leave during the fixed period. If you’re considering switching, compare the savings against any exit fee and check whether the fee stops after the fixed period ends.

Will I benefit if energy prices fall?

Potentially, yes. The ‘fall’ part of a fix and fall tariff is designed so that after the fixed window your rates can move down if the variable rate you switch to decreases (for example, if the Ofgem price cap drops). During the fixed period, your rates will not reduce even if prices fall.

What should I check before switching to a fix and fall tariff?

Before switching, check: (1) fixed unit rates and standing charges, (2) how long the fixed period lasts, (3) what tariff you move to afterwards and how it’s priced, (4) any exit fees and when they apply, and (5) whether the tariff suits your payment method and meter type. If you’re unsure, compare options and estimated annual costs.

Should I switch to a fix and fall energy tariff in the UK?

A fix and fall tariff can protect you if prices rise, while letting you benefit if the price cap falls. Use EnergyPlus to compare whole-of-market deals for your home and see if switching is worth it now.

Compare fixed, variable and fix-and-fall options across UK suppliers
See clear tariff features: exit fees, discounts, and review dates
Quick form — get matched to suitable deals for your postcode

Compare fix-and-fall tariffs Learn how fix-and-fall works

Home energy comparison service (whole-of-market). Switching depends on your usage, current tariff and available deals. Always check tariff terms, including exit fees.

Compare fix-and-fall tariffs (whole-of-market) for your home

A fix and fall energy tariff is a type of fixed deal that can move down if the market (or price cap-linked benchmark) falls — while still shielding you if prices rise. Availability and rules vary by supplier, so the quickest way to know whether it’s a good move is to compare what’s actually on offer for your postcode and usage.

Good to know: Most UK households are on a standard variable tariff (SVT) that tracks the Ofgem price cap. Fix-and-fall tariffs can be attractive if you want more certainty without feeling locked out of future price drops — but the small print matters.

What you’ll get from EnergyPlus

Whole-of-market comparison across multiple UK suppliers (where available for your area and meter type)
A clear view of unit rates, standing charges, and any exit fees
Options for electric-only, gas-only and dual fuel, including smart meter households
Support for common UK meter setups (subject to supplier availability)

Check deals in minutes

Fill in a few details and we’ll match you with suitable home energy deals, including fix-and-fall where available.

Is a fix-and-fall tariff right for you?

In plain terms, fix-and-fall is designed for households who want a level of price protection but don’t want to miss out entirely if prices drop. Whether it’s a good switch depends on: your current tariff, how much you use, your meter type, and how the specific fix-and-fall deal is structured.

You may benefit if…

You’re on an SVT and want more predictable bills
You’re worried about prices rising again in the next 6–24 months
You want the chance to pay less later if the tariff’s “fall” mechanism triggers
You prefer fewer decisions (less frequent switching)

Consider alternatives if…

You can tolerate volatility and want maximum flexibility (a variable tariff may suit)
The fix-and-fall deal has a high unit rate or standing charge compared with other fixes
There’s a meaningful exit fee and you expect to switch soon
You have a complex meter setup where choices are limited

Practical rule of thumb: If a fix-and-fall tariff costs only slightly more than the best standard fixed tariff today, it can be a sensible compromise. If it’s priced much higher, you may be paying for a feature you never use.

Benefits and drawbacks of fix-and-fall tariffs

Not every tariff labelled “fix and fall” works the same way. Use the comparison results to confirm exactly what triggers the fall, how quickly it applies, and whether the supplier can change other parts of the tariff.

Protection if prices rise

You typically get fixed pricing (or a defined cap on pricing) for a set term, helping you plan monthly direct debits.

Potential to benefit if prices fall

Unlike a standard fixed tariff, the rate may reduce if the supplier’s benchmark falls (often linked to a price cap movement or internal index).

Less switching pressure

If the tariff includes a fair “fall” feature, you may not need to chase every market dip to feel you’re getting value.

Complex terms

The “fall” may only apply on certain dates, above certain thresholds, or only to part of the rate structure. Always read the tariff information label.

Exit fees can apply

Some deals charge for leaving early. That matters if you’re likely to move home or switch again soon.

Not always cheapest

You may pay a premium for the feature. A strong fixed deal or SVT could be better value depending on current rates.

How fix-and-fall energy tariffs work (UK explanation)

A fix-and-fall tariff usually starts like a normal fixed tariff: you agree a term (for example 12 months) and your unit rates and standing charges are set. The difference is a built-in mechanism that can reduce what you pay if a defined benchmark falls.

1) You lock in a starting rate

The tariff sets a starting unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day). This is what you’ll pay unless the fall feature triggers.

2) A benchmark is monitored

The supplier defines what they compare against (often the Ofgem price cap level, or an internal index) and how often they review it.

3) Your price may reduce

If the benchmark falls in the way the tariff specifies, your price can be adjusted down. Some tariffs reduce automatically; others apply at set review points.

Fix vs variable vs fix-and-fall (quick comparison)
Tariff type	What happens if prices rise?	What happens if prices fall?	Typical watch-outs
Standard fixed	You’re protected for the term.	You usually don’t benefit until you switch again.	Exit fees, end date, renewal onto a higher SVT if you forget.
SVT (price cap-linked)	Your rates can go up with the cap (within cap rules).	Your rates can go down when the cap drops.	Less certainty; can change with notice; may not be the best value.
Fix-and-fall	You usually have fixed protection (or defined limits).	You may benefit if the tariff’s fall mechanism triggers.	Complex criteria, timing of reductions, and whether standing charge can change.

What to check before you switch to a fix-and-fall tariff

If you’re comparing fix-and-fall tariffs in the UK, use this checklist so you’re comparing like-for-like. You can also jump back to the comparison form once you know what matters.

Price details (the numbers)

Unit rates for electricity and/or gas (p/kWh)
Standing charges (p/day) — these can dominate costs for low usage homes
Whether rates differ by payment method (Direct Debit vs other)
Any discounts and whether they’re guaranteed or conditional

Tariff terms (the small print)

Exit fees and when they apply (per fuel or per account)
The review schedule for price falls (monthly/quarterly/other)
What triggers a fall (e.g., threshold changes) and how it’s calculated
Any restrictions for smart meters, prepayment meters, or Economy 7-style setups

A common mistake

Focusing on “the annual cost” alone can mislead. A tariff with a low unit rate but high standing charge can be more expensive for smaller households. Compare the full breakdown and check it against your realistic usage.

Costs, savings and timing: what UK households should consider

Your current tariff matters most

If you’re already on a competitive fixed tariff, switching early may trigger exit fees. If you’re on an SVT, a fix-and-fall option could improve certainty — but compare the rates carefully.

Standing charge can decide the winner

Many people compare only the unit rate. For low to medium usage homes, standing charge differences can wipe out apparent savings.

Look at the fall mechanism, not the label

Some tariffs reduce only at set review points, or only if the benchmark falls by more than a defined amount. That affects the real-world benefit.

Quick decision guide
Your situation	What to do next
You’re on an SVT and want more certainty	Compare fixed and fix-and-fall deals for your postcode, then check exit fees and fall rules.
You’re in a fixed deal with exit fees	Calculate whether savings outweigh the fee, or consider waiting until the penalty window ends.
You expect to move house soon	Prioritise flexibility and low/no exit fees.
You have a non-standard meter or tariff	Check availability first — your choices may be narrower; compare carefully against your current plan.

Fix-and-fall energy tariff FAQs (UK)

Is a fix-and-fall tariff the same as the Ofgem price cap?

No. The Ofgem price cap applies to standard variable (and some default) tariffs. A fix-and-fall tariff is a fixed-style contract with its own rules — it may reference cap movements, but it isn’t the cap itself.

Will my price definitely go down if the cap falls?

Not necessarily. It depends on the tariff’s terms: how the benchmark is defined, when reviews happen, and whether the fall must exceed a threshold. Always check the tariff information label and T&Cs.

Do fix-and-fall tariffs have exit fees?

Some do, some don’t. If there is an exit fee, check whether it’s per fuel, whether it reduces near the end of term, and whether it applies if you move home.

Can I switch energy supplier if I’m in debt?

In many cases you can, but rules vary depending on meter type and the supplier’s process. If you’re on a prepayment meter, options may be more limited. Comparing deals helps you see what’s available.

How long does switching take in the UK?

Switching can be quick, but timings vary by supplier and circumstances. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted. You’ll normally keep using energy as usual while the account transfer completes.

Is fix-and-fall good for low usage households?

It can be, but low usage homes should pay extra attention to standing charges. Sometimes a slightly higher unit rate with a lower standing charge works out cheaper overall.

Why households use EnergyPlus

When you’re deciding whether to switch to a fix-and-fall tariff, clarity matters. Our comparison approach is built to help you understand the full cost — not just a headline figure.

Whole-of-market mindset

We aim to show a broad view of available tariffs so you can make an informed choice for your home.

Plain-English comparisons

We surface the details that commonly trip people up: standing charges, exit fees and contract terms.

Switching support

If you decide to switch, we help you understand what to expect and what information you’ll need.

What customers tell us they value

“I could finally see the standing charge differences clearly. That made the decision much easier.”

Homeowner, West Midlands

“The checklist helped me avoid picking a deal with an exit fee that didn’t suit my situation.”

Tenant, Greater Manchester

Ready to see if a fix-and-fall tariff could suit your home?

Compare UK home energy tariffs (whole-of-market) and check the terms that matter — unit rate, standing charge, exit fees and how the “fall” feature works.

Start my comparison Read FAQs first

Tip: have your latest bill or online account handy for the most accurate comparison.

What you’ll need

Your postcode
Whether you want gas, electricity or both
An idea of your annual usage (if you know it)

Back to Guides & FAQs

Updated on 14 Feb 2026