Time To Switch Energy Suppliers

[hc4361]

I have used small, unknown energy companies in the past with no problems but I was very lucky when I used Extra in that my contract ended shortly before they folded. I know a lot of people had trouble getting their credit refunded, often having to wait months.

I have used the comparison sites and the difference between the cheapest 'unknown' supplier and the cheapest big name is around £30 a year.

Should I make the £30 saving or get peace of mind by using one of the 'big 6'?

[gingejbee]

....for £30 per month, OK. To save £30 a year....no chance of my changing.

[hc4361]

Thanks, Ginge.

[sddsddean]

I f your council is part of the 'Big Community Switch' scheme, you could save 10% or more on your bills. We've been using the scheme with our local council for the last 5 years or so...no problems switching between companies after the 'auction'. See if your council is on the list
https://bigcommunityswitch.co.uk/landing?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=search#

[Tuvok]

We only have electric - no mains gas here.

When I'm looking for a new supplier I compare unit rate and standing charge. I don't go by the comparison site savings.

Quickest way to do it is pick a figure for your daily usage eg. 10 kw hours. Multiply the unit rate by 10 and add the standing charge. Whichever company gives the lowest figure is the better option.

I'm with Symbio Energy.

[hc4361]

Tuvok, glad that system works for you, it wouldn't work for me as many energy companies charge different rates for the first x amount of units, the second x amount etc and some charge the same for all the units used. I haven't the time nor the inclination to do the maths for all the available suppliers.

Symbio only supply electricity and it usually (not always) cheaper for me to get both gas and electricity from the same supplier. That's another factor I'd have to take in to account if I didn't use the comparison sites.

[Hopkirk]

Go for a big 6.

Sign up to Martin Lewis's energy saving club and you might find a really good deal. He's got me onto a 2 year group switch with Eon at very good rates

[1ozzy]

Organise a few parking fines a day and you wont care about your energy bill ;-)

[hc4361]

:D That's a plan, Ozzy :) I wonder if it would count as earnings for income tax.

I'll have a look at the Martin Lewis thing, Tuvok

[Tuvok]

Sounds like you'relooking at variable tarrifs - mine is a fixed tarrif.

[hc4361]

No, I want a fixed tariff