Compare gas-only tariff deals in the UK
If you only need gas (or want to split gas and electricity), this guide shows what to check, what “good” looks like, and how to compare UK gas-only tariffs confidently.
- See which meter types and payment methods can access gas-only deals
- Understand unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and contract terms
- Use our checklist and scenarios to estimate costs before you apply
Estimates depend on your usage, region, meter type and payment method. Tariffs and eligibility change frequently.
Fast answer: how to compare gas-only tariffs (UK)
To compare gas-only tariff deals properly, you need your meter type (credit or prepayment, and whether you have a smart meter), your region (tariff prices vary), payment method (Direct Debit vs cash/card), and a realistic annual gas usage in kWh. Then compare tariffs using:
- Unit rate (p/kWh) — what you pay per unit of gas.
- Standing charge (p/day) — fixed daily cost (varies by region).
- Contract length & exit fees — especially for fixes.
- Eligibility — some tariffs are only available with certain meters or payment methods.
Quick tip: If you don’t know your usage, start with the estimate on your latest bill/in-app, or use your annual statement. Gas comparisons are most accurate when you use kWh rather than £ spend.
Key takeaways
Gas-only can make sense if you’re separating suppliers or your electricity is on a special setup (e.g., EV tariff or storage heating plan).
Cheapest isn’t always best: factor in exit fees, customer service, billing method and how you’ll submit meter readings.
Standing charges matter for low-usage homes; unit rates matter more for high-usage homes.
Compare gas-only deals (whole of market approach)
Use the form to request a gas-only comparison. We’ll use your postcode, meter type and preferred payment method to check available tariffs and show estimated costs based on your usage.
Good to know: “Gas-only” means you’re choosing a gas tariff without bundling electricity with the same supplier. You can still keep (or switch) your electricity separately.
How gas-only switching works (what happens next)
- Tell us your details (postcode, contact info, and a couple of quick questions).
- We match tariffs to your setup (region, meter type, payment method). Some deals won’t be available for prepayment or certain meters.
- We show estimated annual cost using unit rate + standing charge + your kWh usage (where provided).
- If you proceed, your new supplier handles the switch. You’ll usually receive key documents and a cooling-off period (terms apply).
If you rent, you can often switch supplier as long as you pay the bill and your landlord isn’t providing energy as part of your rent. Always check your tenancy agreement.
Get a gas-only quote
Not sure if you’re on gas? Look for a gas meter (often outside or in a cupboard) and a bill showing gas usage in kWh. If you’re all-electric, you won’t be able to take a gas tariff.
Gas-only tariff types and what to check
Fixed gas-only tariff
Unit rate and standing charge are usually fixed for the term (e.g., 12 months). Often includes an exit fee if you leave early. Good for budgeting, less flexible if prices drop.
Variable gas-only tariff
Prices can change (with notice). Usually no exit fees, but your cost can rise. Often used as a default option by suppliers.
Prepayment gas tariff
For prepay meters (including smart prepay). Deal availability can be narrower. Check top-up methods, emergency credit rules, and whether a smart meter is required for the best rates.
Green gas / carbon offset options
Some suppliers offer tariffs with carbon offsets or green initiatives. The gas delivered is still from the grid; read what’s included and whether it changes the price or contract terms.
UK pricing reality: Gas prices vary by region and sometimes by payment method (Direct Debit vs standard credit). Always compare like-for-like using your own postcode.
Gas-only comparison table (what to look for)
Use this table as a practical checklist when comparing gas-only tariffs. It shows how different tariff features affect your total cost and flexibility.
| Feature | Why it matters | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Biggest driver of cost for medium/high usage homes. | Homes with gas heating, higher kWh. | A low unit rate can be offset by a high standing charge. |
| Standing charge (p/day) | You pay it every day, even with no usage. | Low-usage homes need this kept down. | Not always obvious in marketing; check the tariff info. |
| Fixed vs variable | Budget certainty vs flexibility to move. | Fix: risk-averse; Variable: flexibility. | Fixes may have exit fees; variables may rise with notice. |
| Exit fees | Leaving early can cost £, reducing any benefit. | Longer fixes, movers, uncertain plans. | Fees may apply per fuel; confirm it’s gas-only. |
| Payment method | Direct Debit can unlock tariffs/prices; prepay can be different. | Anyone comparing like-for-like. | If you can’t do DD, filter accordingly to avoid disappointment. |
| Meter type | Smart/prepay/credit affects eligibility and how readings are taken. | Everyone. | If your meter details are wrong, quotes can be inaccurate. |
Decision checklist: who gas-only suits (and who it doesn’t)
Gas-only often suits you if…
- You want an electricity tariff that’s separate (e.g., EV charging, time-of-use, or a specific supplier).
- You’re happy to manage two accounts/suppliers (or already do).
- You’re comparing based on your gas usage in kWh and can provide readings when needed.
- Your household uses gas primarily for heating/hot water and you want to focus on gas pricing.
Gas-only might not suit you if…
- You prefer a single supplier and one set of bills/customer service.
- You’re likely to move soon and a fixed tariff exit fee could apply.
- You’re on prepayment and the best-looking deal is credit-meter only (eligibility mismatch).
- You’re unsure whether your property is supplied by mains gas (common in some rural areas).
Practical reminder: If you split suppliers, keep note of your gas MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) from your bill. It helps suppliers identify your supply quickly.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (gas-only)
Standing charge surprises
If you use little gas (summer, small flat, or gas only for cooking), a higher standing charge can outweigh a lower unit rate.
Exit fees on fixes
A fixed deal can look cheaper, but an exit fee may apply if you switch again before the term ends. Check how much and when it applies.
Wrong meter details
Quotes can be off if your meter type (credit vs prepay) or supply details are wrong. Use your bill or supplier app to confirm.
Scenario 1: Low gas usage (standing charge matters)
Assumptions (illustrative only):
- Annual gas use: 4,000 kWh (small household, gas cooker + some hot water)
- Tariff A: 6.5p/kWh + 35p/day standing charge
- Tariff B: 7.0p/kWh + 25p/day standing charge
Estimated annual cost:
Tariff A: (4,000×£0.065)=£260 + (365×£0.35)=£127.75 → £387.75
Tariff B: (4,000×£0.070)=£280 + (365×£0.25)=£91.25 → £371.25
Takeaway: Even with a higher unit rate, a lower standing charge can win for low usage homes.
Scenario 2: High gas usage (unit rate matters)
Assumptions (illustrative only):
- Annual gas use: 15,000 kWh (typical gas-heated home)
- Tariff C: 6.2p/kWh + 32p/day
- Tariff D: 6.8p/kWh + 24p/day
Estimated annual cost:
Tariff C: (15,000×£0.062)=£930 + (365×£0.32)=£116.80 → £1,046.80
Tariff D: (15,000×£0.068)=£1,020 + (365×£0.24)=£87.60 → £1,107.60
Takeaway: For high usage, a lower unit rate usually outweighs a modest standing charge difference.
Important: The scenarios above are examples to show how the maths works. Actual tariffs are region- and meter-specific, and your usage may differ. Always check tariff documents before applying.
Other exclusions to watch
Off-grid properties: If you use LPG, oil, or bottled gas, you can’t switch to a mains gas tariff unless the property has a mains connection.
Moving home: Some suppliers let you take a tariff with you; others don’t. If you’re near a move, consider flexibility and exit fees.
Debt on a prepay meter: Debt repayment settings can carry over. Ask how it’s handled before switching.
Direct Debit requirements: If a tariff requires DD and you choose standard credit, the available deals (and prices) can change.
Gas-only tariffs UK: FAQs
Can I have gas with one supplier and electricity with another?
Yes. In the UK you can split fuels across suppliers. It can be useful if you want a specific electricity tariff, but you’ll manage two accounts and two sets of customer service.
Are gas-only deals cheaper than dual fuel?
Not always. Sometimes dual fuel is simpler, but “discounts” vary and the best value can come from choosing the best gas and best electricity separately. Compare total estimated annual costs for each option.
What information do I need to compare gas-only tariffs accurately?
Your postcode, payment method, meter type (credit or prepayment, smart or traditional), and ideally your annual gas usage in kWh. Your bill should also show your gas MPRN and tariff name.
Do gas unit rates and standing charges vary by region?
Yes. Standing charges (and sometimes unit rates) can vary by region due to network costs. That’s why comparisons should be done using your actual postcode.
Can I switch gas-only if I’m in rented accommodation?
Often yes, if you’re the person responsible for paying the energy bill. If bills are included in your rent or your landlord is the bill payer, you may not be able to switch. Check your tenancy agreement first.
Will I lose gas supply during a switch?
Typically, no. Switching is mainly an administrative process. If there’s an issue (e.g., incorrect meter details), it can delay the switch rather than interrupt supply.
What are exit fees and when do they apply?
Exit fees are charges for leaving a fixed tariff before it ends. Whether they apply (and how much) depends on the tariff terms. Always check the tariff information and your supplier’s contract summary.
I’m on a prepayment meter — can I still get a good gas-only tariff?
You can still switch, but the range of tariffs may be smaller and pricing can differ from credit meters. If you have (or can get) smart prepay, you may have more options depending on supplier availability.
How do I estimate annual gas usage if I don’t know it?
Check your annual statement, online account, or your bills (usage should be listed in kWh). If you’ve recently moved, use the property’s EPC as a rough guide, then update once you have real readings.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page details
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- May 2026
How we assess gas-only tariffs (and limitations)
Our aim is to help you compare tariffs on the factors that most affect real household cost and suitability. When we discuss “best” options, we mean best fit based on your details — not a one-size-fits-all answer.
- Cost estimation basis: unit rate (p/kWh) + standing charge (p/day) + your annual usage in kWh (where provided).
- Eligibility filters: postcode/region, payment method (e.g., Direct Debit), meter type (credit vs prepayment; smart where relevant).
- Contract terms: tariff length, price change rules (variable tariffs), exit fees and key restrictions.
- Service considerations: billing options, meter reading requirements, and practical fit for split-supplier households.
Limitations: Tariffs change frequently. Quotes are estimates and depend on accurate meter/usage details. Supplier acceptance, credit checks (where applicable), and switching timelines vary by provider and situation.
Sources and further reading (UK)
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) — guidance on energy tariffs, switching and consumer protections.
- Citizens Advice: energy — practical advice on bills, debt, complaints and switching.
- GOV.UK — official UK government information (e.g., help with energy bills where available, consumer rights information).
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