Is it worth switching to a tracker tariff in the UK this week?
Tracker energy tariffs can be cheaper than fixed deals when wholesale prices fall — but they can rise quickly too. Compare whole-of-market options in minutes and see whether a tracker looks sensible for your home right now.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (gas, electricity or dual fuel)
- Quick view of tracker vs fixed vs standard variable for your postcode
- Switch support from start to finish — with clear, UK-friendly guidance
EnergyPlus is a comparison service for domestic energy. Availability and prices vary by region, meter type and credit checks. Always check tariff terms before switching.
Compare tracker vs fixed tariffs for your home
If you’re asking “is a tracker tariff worth it in the UK this week?”, the honest answer depends on today’s market pricing, your risk tolerance, and your usage pattern. EnergyPlus lets you compare across the market so you can make a decision based on your own postcode, meter type and payment method.
Tip: Trackers can move daily/weekly (depending on provider). If you prefer certainty, a fixed tariff may still be the better fit — even if the headline price is slightly higher.
What we’ll check for you
- Tracker availability in your region (and whether it’s genuinely competitive)
- Fixed and variable alternatives for a like-for-like comparison
- Tariff details such as exit fees, discounts and payment options
- Suitability for smart meters, Economy 7 and prepayment (where available)
So… is a tracker tariff worth switching to this week?
A UK tracker tariff can be worth considering when the tracker’s unit rates are materially lower than competitive fixed deals and you can cope with short-notice price changes. If you’d struggle with bill variability, a well-priced fixed tariff may be better value overall because it protects your budget.
A tracker may be worth it if…
- You’re comfortable with rates changing (daily/weekly)
- You can switch again if conditions change
- Your current deal is expensive and a tracker is clearly below it
- You have a bit of headroom in your budget
A fixed may be better if…
- You prioritise predictable monthly Direct Debits
- You’d be stressed by price swings
- You’re entering higher-usage months and want certainty
- You’ve found a strong fix with low/no exit fees
A quick self-check
If rates rose suddenly, could you manage an extra 10–20% on energy for a couple of months?
If that would be difficult, consider comparing fixed deals first — then decide whether the tracker discount is worth the risk.
Important: A tracker is not the same as the Ofgem price cap. Some trackers follow a published index (often linked to wholesale costs) and can move more frequently than standard variable tariffs.
What is a tracker energy tariff?
A tracker tariff is an energy plan where your unit rates (p/kWh) and sometimes your standing charge move in line with a published reference — often a wholesale market indicator — plus a supplier margin. Unlike a fixed tariff, you don’t lock in a price for 12–24 months. Unlike many standard variable tariffs, a tracker can change more often, depending on the specific product rules.
Tracker vs fixed vs standard variable (SVT)
What you should check on any tracker
- How often it updates (daily vs weekly is a big difference)
- Any cap / collar (limits on how high or low it can go)
- Standing charge and whether it also tracks
- Exit fees and minimum term (some have none, some do)
- Payment method (Direct Debit vs pay on receipt)
- Meter requirements (smart meter, Economy 7, prepay availability)
If a tracker looks cheap today but has a high standing charge, it may not suit low-usage households (e.g. smaller flats or people out at work most days).
Who does a tracker tariff suit in the UK?
Tracker tariffs can work well for certain households — especially if you’re prepared to keep an eye on the market and act when a better deal appears.
Confident switchers
If you’re happy to switch again if prices rise, a tracker can be a flexible “in-between” option while you wait for a better fix.
Households with budget headroom
Trackers can reduce bills when prices fall, but you need a buffer for weeks where rates move against you.
When a tracker is usually a poor fit
If you need price certainty: fixed tariffs are designed for stable budgeting and tend to be less stressful.
If you’re already on a competitive fix: check exit fees and compare the realistic savings before moving.
Tracker tariff risks (and how to reduce them)
Trackers aren’t “good” or “bad” — they’re a pricing mechanism. The key is understanding the trade-off and using a few practical guardrails.
Common risks
- Bill volatility: rates can rise quickly after market shocks or seasonal demand.
- Standing charge creep: even if unit rates fall, a high standing charge can offset savings.
- Assuming “tracker = cheapest”: trackers aren’t automatically better than a strong fixed deal.
- Not checking terms: some trackers have exit fees, minimum terms or update rules that don’t suit you.
Simple ways to manage the downside
- Set a personal “pain point” rate: if the tracker rises above a figure you’d be unhappy with, you’ll compare fixed deals again.
- Prefer trackers with low/no exit fees if you want flexibility.
- Compare using annual cost estimates (not just unit rates).
- Keep Direct Debit in line with your usage and review after bill changes.
If you’re currently in debt with your supplier, switching may be restricted until balances are addressed. We’ll flag this in your comparison where relevant.
How to switch to a tracker tariff (UK homes)
Switching is usually straightforward. You don’t need to contact your current supplier to cancel in most cases — your new supplier typically handles it. Here’s a practical, low-hassle approach:
- Check your current tariff: note your current unit rates, standing charges and any exit fees.
- Compare tracker vs fixed: use your postcode and meter type to see what’s actually available where you live.
- Read the tracker rules: how often it updates, whether it’s capped, and the exit terms.
- Apply and confirm: you’ll receive tariff details and a switching timeline from the supplier.
- Take meter readings: submit readings on the switch date (or via smart readings where applicable) to ensure accurate final bills.
No interruption to supply
Your gas and electricity won’t be cut off just because you switch. You keep using energy as normal during the process.
Timing matters
If you’re near the end of a fixed term, consider whether waiting avoids exit fees — then compare again right before you switch.
What affects whether a tracker will save you money?
To decide whether switching this week makes sense, focus on total annual cost and the conditions that can change it. Unit rates are important, but they’re only part of the picture.
Standing charges
A higher standing charge can wipe out savings for low-to-medium usage households. Always compare the combined impact.
Your usage pattern
High-usage homes are more sensitive to unit rate changes (good and bad). Small flats can be more sensitive to standing charges.
Quick checklist before you choose
- Compare estimated annual cost for tracker vs best fixed deal
- Check whether the tracker has a price cap (and what it is)
- Review exit fees on both your current and new tariff
- Confirm your meter type (smart, Economy 7, prepayment) and eligibility
- If you’re in a rented property, confirm the energy account is in your name before switching
Regional note: Unit rates and standing charges differ by distribution region. That’s why postcode-based comparison is essential for an accurate “worth it this week” answer.
Common tracker tariff mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Only looking at today’s unit rate
A tracker can look great on day one. Compare the best fixed alternative and decide if the tracker discount is worth the uncertainty.
Ignoring standing charges
Standing charges vary by region and tariff. For some homes, they matter as much as the unit rate.
Forgetting exit fees
Exit fees on your current tariff can change the maths. Always check before you start a switch.
Not checking update frequency
Two trackers can behave very differently. Knowing whether it updates daily, weekly or monthly changes the risk.
Tracker tariff FAQs (UK)
Can a tracker tariff go up tomorrow?
Depending on the product, yes. Some trackers update daily, others weekly or monthly. Always check the tariff’s update frequency and the published method it follows.
Are tracker tariffs capped by the Ofgem price cap?
Not necessarily. The Ofgem price cap applies to standard variable tariffs and default tariffs for many customers. A tracker may be priced using its own rules and could move differently. Some trackers include their own cap — but that depends on the supplier and product.
Do I need a smart meter for a tracker tariff?
Not always, but some tracker products are designed around smart metering. Availability varies by supplier, region and meter type. Comparing with your postcode is the fastest way to see what you can get.
Is it risky to switch from a fixed tariff to a tracker?
It can be if you’re leaving a competitive fix or paying exit fees. The main risk is price volatility: you could pay less for a while, then more later. Compare the annual cost difference and decide whether you’re being paid enough (in savings) to take on that risk.
How quickly can I switch energy tariffs in the UK?
Switching times vary by supplier and circumstances, but many switches complete within a few working days. You’ll be guided through the process and asked for meter readings around the switch date.
What information do I need to compare tariffs?
At minimum: your postcode and contact details. For the most accurate comparison, have a recent bill to hand with your usage (kWh) and current tariff information — but you can still start the process without it.
Ready to see if a tracker is worth it for your postcode?
Compare tracker, fixed and variable tariffs across the market and choose the option that fits your household budget and risk comfort.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes
- Clear view of tariff terms (standing charge, exit fees, eligibility)
- Quick start — results based on your region
Domestic energy only. Switching subject to supplier acceptance and tariff availability.
Back to Energy News
Why households use EnergyPlus
Switching decisions are easier when the information is clear. Here’s what people typically value when comparing energy tariffs with us.
“The comparison made it obvious that the cheapest option for my postcode wasn’t the one I expected. Helpful and straightforward.”
— UK homeowner
“I was tempted by a tracker, but seeing the fixed alternatives side-by-side helped me choose with confidence.”
— Dual fuel switcher
“Clear explanation of exit fees and standing charges — the bits most sites gloss over.”
— First-time switcher
Trust point: We focus on making tariff terms easy to compare — including standing charges, eligibility and exit fees — so you can choose what works for your household.