Switch your gas and electricity: step by step

Get cheaper gas and electricity

Get cheaper gas and electricity
  1. Save up to £425 on your energy bills - compare and switch today

Compare and switch your gas and electricity

It's easy to switch supplier with uSwitch - we'll take you through the options, show you the best deals for saving on gas and electricity prices and do all the paperwork for you. All you have to do is follow a few simple steps.

uSwitch compares prices for gas and electricity - you can switch one or both of your suppliers wish us, and we can help you find the best deal if you only have electricity.

We don't provide comparisons for people with homes powered by oil/LPG systems.

What you'll need to have ready

  • your full postcode 
  • your latest gas/electricity bill

(Having your latest bill will allow you to give us the most accurate information about your energy usage, but don't worry if you don't have one handy - we can work out your usage by asking you a few extra questions.).

Step 1: tell us your postcode

Tell uSwitch your postcode. Gas and electricity prices will change depending on where you live.

Step 2: tell us about your current suppliers and energy use

To help us compare prices for you, answer a few quick questions about who supplies your energy currently and how much you use or pay. This takes about 5 minutes.

We can work out your energy bill with the usage details you provide, as we hold pricing information for every plan on the market.

Step 3: tell us what you want

Tell us how you want to pay and what type of energy plan you're looking for. This will help us find the right plans for you.

Step 4: see a list of suppliers and pick a plan.

Based on the information you've given us, we'll show you a list of all suppliers and the savings you can make. You can also see customer satisfaction ratings for each supplier.

Once you've read the details, you can pick the best plan for you.

Step 5: help us help you switch supplier

Give us a few details including your name and address, and we'll guide you through the online application . This takes about 5 minutes.

You then confirm your switch.

We send your application to your new energy supplier who will let your old supplier know you're switching and set up your new account.

You'll then need to:

  • pay your final bill to your old supplier
  • cancel any direct debits to your old supplier (make sure you've paid your last bill first).
  • Take a final meter reading to give to your old and new suppliers.

And that's it - you're done. 

What happens afterwards?

What can you expect after you switch supplier? Here are a few common questions answered.

Will my energy supply be interrupted when I switch supplier?
No. You'll still be receiving your energy through the same pipes and cables so there won't be any an interruption to your supply, or any need to dig up the road. Only the company that bills you will change.

Am I with my new supplier as soon as I confirm my switch?
No. The whole process takes between 4 and 6 weeks. Your new energy supplier will contact your old supplier and agree a switch over date which they will let you know about. If you've switched gas and electricity, the dates may be different for each.

Will I hear from my new energy supplier?
You'll receive a welcome pack and letter from your new supplier. This will outline what you've agreed to.

Will I be billed twice?
No. The companies agree a switch over date , so provided you've cancelled your direct debit, you will not be billed twice.

What if I change my mind?
You have a cooling off period of 14 days. If you decide that you no longer want to switch your supplier, just contact your new supplier and let them know.

Can I switch suppliers again?
You can switch suppliers every 28 days if you want to, but be careful to check for cancellation charges.

We'd like to hear from you - please let us know if you found this guide useful: editor@uswitch.com