Frequently asked questions about energy comparison.
Is there really HELP to pay for exit fees?
Yes. It may surprise you find that most companies have a scheme that can be accessed to help you get back early exit fees from switching. At Smart Home Saver we know how to access these schemes and see if you qualify.
Do I need to switch gas and electricity?
Above all, the majority of households in the UK are overpaying on their energy bills, so it’s very likely that you are too. In addition, this is especially true if you are a customer of one of the Big Six energy companies; British Gas, EDF Energy, E.ON, npower, Scottish Power, or SSE. Comparing energy prices is free, simple, and with the help of Smart Home Saver you could save hundreds of pounds on your gas and electricity bills.
Will my power get switched off when I switch energy to a new supplier?
No. In other words, your energy supply will continue as normal when you switch energy suppliers. The only difference you will see is the name of the company on your energy bills, as well as the lower price you pay.
Can I switch energy if I’m on a fixed tariff?
Yes. Most importantly, you can switch energy suppliers whenever you wish, if you are on a fixed price tariff you may have to pay an exit fee. In short, suppliers must tell you at least 42 days before your end date that your current deal is about to expire. At Smart Home Saver we are able to cover the cost of any exits fees you may incur.
What if I change my mind after I switch gas and electricity?
Most importantly, once you’ve decided to switch and have selected a tariff, you’ll enter a 14-day ‘cooling off’ period. During this time, if you decide you actually don’t want to switch, you are free to cancel to process by talking to your new supplier.
How much money can I save by switching energy?
This will depend on several factors, including how much you’re spending now and the kind of tariff you’re currently on. Importantly, if you’re on a Standard Variable Tariff then savings can be in the hundreds.
To find out exactly how much you could save, simply request a quote.
Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
When the switch goes through, you will be sent a final bill by your current supplier detailing any remaining payments due. For the most part, any debts will simply be included on this bill and won’t hinder the switch. If your debts to your current supplier exceed £500, then you’ll need to pay at least a chunk of it back before you’ll be allowed to switch.
Will switching energy always save me money?
This depends on the energy tariff you are currently on. If you haven’t switched gas and electricity suppliers for over a year, it’s likely you’ll be on a standard variable rate tariff, and comparing energy deals from other suppliers and switching could save you hundreds of pounds on your energy bills every year.
Will the energy price cap save me money?
The energy price cap is set by the energy regulator Ofgem and is used to cap the amount that energy suppliers can charge consumers, with the cap being reviewed every three months. Whether the energy price cap will save you money depends on your energy usage and the tariff you are on.
Should I switch to an energy supplier if I’ve never heard of it?
While most people will have heard of the ‘Big Six’ energy suppliers, you may come across some suppliers who you’ve never heard of. While comparing prices, you may see that these ‘unknown’ suppliers are offering better deals, but you may be concerned about the legitimacy of the supplier. Every energy supplier we compare is Ofgem-accredited, so you don’t have to worry about any scams or rogue companies. If you’re unsure, do some research on the new supplier, such as looking at any online reviews from other customers.
How do energy comparison sites make money?
Energy comparison sites like Smart Home Saver make money through commission payments from energy suppliers. When you switch energy supplier through our website, we might get a small commission from your new supplier. However, this doesn’t affect the price you pay – you will not be charged more for your energy tariff if you switch via Smart Home Saver than if you went directly to the supplier. Many energy suppliers are happy to pay small commission rates to comparison sites like ours as it helps them to save money on advertising and marketing.
How long does the transfer take?
The whole transfer process takes 2 to 3 days for energy switches and 20 days for internet switches.
Do I need to tell my current supplier I’m leaving?
No. Smart Home Saver will do all the switching for you.
What is the current Government Price Cap?
The energy price cap is the maximum amount energy suppliers can charge you for each unit of energy and standing charge if you’re on a standard variable tariff.
You can find the more information on the Ofgem website.
