How to Compare Gas and Electricity Prices Online
If you are thinking of switching your current energy provider for a cheaper deal then it’s a good idea to look online for comparison sites to see all the tariffs for your postcode side by side.
The best method to compare gas and electricity prices online is to use one of the many price comparison websites. What they have is all the prices for each energy company by area of the country that are updated when new tariffs are developed. By typing in your postcode and either annual consumption figures or costs from your bill you’ll be able to see how much each tariff is and make a decision on whether you already have one of the best deals or switching to another provider may save you money.
Finding the best tariffs
Certainly if you have never compared prices before or switched electricity and gas companies then you’ll probably be on a standard tariff and these are the most expensive offered. The prices will vary if any increases or price reductions are announced but you could save at least £300 per year by switching and making other adjustments to the way you pay and manage your account.
Ways to save money on gas and electricity
If you don’t want to switch supplier then you can save hundreds each year just by making some simple adjustments with your energy provider. The following are the easiest but have most impact on your pricing.
- Pay a fixed amount by monthly or quarterly direct debit – both methods offer various levels of discounts on your current pricing and the best discounts are from monthly payments which can be between 6% and 10% discount. Where the average energy bill in the UK is approximately £1250 per year this is an automatic saving of £125 just by setting up a direct debit. The amount you pay is determined from your previous bills based on your consumption. The figure will change from time to time if you are not paying enough to meet your bills and you’ll get a letter from your provider if any adjustments need to be made
- Manage your account online – the very best deals for electric and gas supplies are to be found online and these tend to have you either not having a paper bill any more and to enter your own meter reading via the energy provider’s website. There are many deals that fall into this category and British Gas have an energy smart product that also provides you with an energy monitor so you can see at a glance your consumption for electricity you are using.
- Sign up for 1 year or more – variable priced contracts as well as fixed prices have discounts if you sign up to various products for the terms that are set out. Normally new products are announced that provide discounts from standard tariffs for a period of time that is normally 12 – 16 months or so. Some companies still allow you to switch out of these with no penalties although some will apply a charge so check the terms and conditions before applying.
To compare gas and electricity prices online just do it yourself by visiting the 6 major energy company’s websites or use a price comparison site that will do it all for you in one transaction.