Energy prices have been annoyingly high for a while now. And although they’ve dropped from their 2023 peak, the price cap (the maximum suppliers can charge per unit) went up by 2% in October. So much for autumn being called ‘the fall’.
Luckily, though, we can help you say ‘see ya’ to high bills. The long game is to improve your home’s energy efficiency. But there’s something else that could help faster: switching energy suppliers. And now’s a fantastic time to do it.
So, let’s quickly explain what energy switching involves, why you might switch, when you can switch, and how easy it is. Spoiler alert: it only takes a few minutes in My Home Manager.
What exactly is energy switching?
As the name suggests, it’s when you swap to a different gas or electricity tariff. This might be with your current energy supplier or a different supplier altogether. The cheaper the tariff, the better the deal you’re getting.
According to our energy partner, Youtility, the next few months are a great time to switch because many households are in credit after the summer. So, you might get a nice little refund when you move.
In fact, even the energy regulator, Ofgem, says you should consider switching to a fixed tariff now. It’s a smart way to try and save money. After all, prices could well rise over the next 12 months.
Why might I want to switch?
Lots of people switch simply to save money. After all, who likes overpaying?
A popular time is at the end of a fixed tariff contract. That’s because suppliers will automatically move you to an out-of-contract tariff if you don’t change. And that’s usually more expensive.
Meanwhile, if you’re on a variable tariff, you might want the certainty of locking in a fixed rate for a period of time. Especially if you see a deal that’s cheaper than the variable one you’re currently on.
So, if you’ve got the itch to switch, see if you can do it now before you turn the radiators up. Especially as Youtility are seeing cheaper fixed tariffs than the variable ones most households have.
But it’s not all about the money for everyone. Some people switch because they want better customer service. Others switch because they’re worried about climate change and want to support renewable energy sources.
When can I switch?
You can switch whenever you like if you’re on a variable tariff. But if you’re in a fixed term deal, you can change for free if there are 49 days or fewer left on your contract.
If you switch before this, you might need to pay an exit fee. Although Youtility say it’s worth checking how much this fee actually is. Sometimes you’ll still save more overall by switching early.
Worried that you won’t be able to switch if you’re renting? Fear not. If you pay for your energy directly, there’s no reason why you can’t change. You might need to let your landlord know though. So, it’s a good idea to check your tenancy agreement first.
One final thing here: whether you’re a tenant or homeowner, you might not be able to switch if you owe your current supplier money. They could block your switch until you’ve paid up. Yikes.
But this won’t matter if you’re in credit, of course. Which is why it’s worth shopping around in autumn.
What tariff should I switch to?
It’s totally up to you. Your first step will be to compare your existing tariff to the other fixed and variable ones out there.
Youtility say fixed price tariffs may work out cheaper for most people. And they could help you budget because it’s easier to predict your monthly bill.
They also give you some peace of mind: your bill won’t rocket if wholesale prices go into orbit. Having said that, a variable rate tariff could work out cheaper if wholesale prices go down.
Bear in mind that prices usually change every 3 months when Ofgem, the regulator, reviews the energy cap. So, think about your situation.
How might the cap change? Is your budget flexible? Do you use lots of energy at night? These are all things to ponder before you pounce on a deal.
Is now a good time to switch?
Nobody can see the future, sadly. But according to Youtility, there are signs it could be the best time to switch since the energy crisis a few years ago.
In fact, a typical household could save £234 per year by switching to the best fixed rate deal Youtility can find. That’s compared to a typical household on a tariff equal to the price cap.
In other words, freezing what you’ll pay for your energy now, before it turns freezing outside this winter, could be a good move.
How long does switching take?
It’s quick and easy. In fact, you can switch in My Home Manager in a few minutes if you’ve got your latest bill handy. Or you can compare deals and switch on Youtility’s website now.
You simply enter a few details about your current tariff, compare different deals, and you’ll see how much you could save. There’s even some info about each supplier to help you decide.
If you want to go ahead, you’ll get an email from Youtility confirming your decision. Then you’ll be switched automatically within 5 working days. Or you can choose a date after that.
You’ll find full terms and more information in the energy switching journey.
Will I lose my energy supply for a time?
Don’t worry. You’ll enjoy an uninterrupted supply throughout your transfer. Ofgem guarantees it.
So, the lights shouldn’t get switched off while you’re switching. Now wouldn’t that be a turn off?
This content was accurate when published on 30/10/25.
We may get commission if you switch your energy provider with Youtility.
If you want more tips to cut household bills like energy, broadband and TV, check out My Home Manager. It’s in the menu on our Mobile Banking app. Or you can switch direct with Youtility.