Dual fuel Switching discounts, perks & promo tips

A Guide to Simplifying Your Energy Bills

Consolidating your gas and electricity supply into a single ‘dual fuel’ tariff is a popular strategy for UK households. It offers the convenience of one bill and one point of contact, often accompanied by discounts. Understanding how to navigate these tariffs is key to ensuring you secure genuine savings and avoid common pitfalls.

This guide is for any UK consumer seeking to reduce their energy bills, simplify their household admin, or find a better deal as their current energy contract comes to an end. It provides a measured look at the benefits and risks associated with dual fuel tariffs.

Understanding Key Energy Terminology

A dual fuel tariff is an agreement where a single supplier provides both your gas and electricity. This contrasts with having separate suppliers for each utility. The primary appeal lies in streamlined management and potential cost reductions.

Several terms are central to understanding these deals:

• Tariff: The plan you are on, detailing the price you pay per unit of energy and any daily standing charge.
• Ofgem Price Cap: The energy regulator, Ofgem, sets a maximum price that suppliers can charge for average use on their standard variable tariffs. This cap influences the pricing of many dual fuel deals. As of October 2025, the average bill under the price cap was projected to be around £1,755 annually.
• Exit Fees: A charge applied if you leave a fixed-term contract before its end date. These are a critical factor to check before committing to a tariff.

A clear understanding of these concepts is the first step toward making an informed decision about your energy supply.

Fixed vs. Variable: Choosing Your Tariff Type

Dual fuel tariffs are typically offered in two main forms: fixed-rate and variable-rate. Your choice between them depends on your appetite for risk and desire for price certainty.

The Financials of Dual Fuel Deals

The financial impact of switching to a dual fuel tariff can be significant, but it requires careful evaluation. Many suppliers offer discounts as an incentive for bundling your services. These can be applied as a monthly reduction or an annual credit to your account.

Beyond standard discounts, look for promotional offers such as cashback for new customers. While attractive, it is important to calculate the total cost over the contract term, rather than focusing solely on the initial incentive.

Costs also vary by household. For example, the average annual bill for a 3-4 bedroom house is estimated at around £1,163, but your actual expenditure will depend on your usage and chosen tariff. The most significant financial risk comes from exit fees on fixed-term deals, which can negate the savings you hoped to achieve by switching early.

Securing a Better Deal in 5 Steps

Switching your energy provider is a regulated and straightforward process designed to be simple for the consumer. Following these steps will help you navigate it efficiently.

1. Gather Your Information: Find a recent energy bill. This contains your current tariff details and, most importantly, your annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
2. Use a Comparison Tool: Utilise an accredited energy comparison website, such as Uswitch or UKPower.
3. Enter Your Details: Input your postcode and energy usage information into the tool.
4. Compare Recommended Tariffs: Review the list of dual fuel deals. Filter by fixed or variable rates, customer service ratings, and total annual cost.
5. Confirm Your Switch: Once you have selected the best tariff for your needs, you can confirm the switch through the comparison site. Your new supplier will handle the rest.

Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks

Before proceeding, it is wise to consider both the advantages and potential disadvantages of a dual fuel arrangement.

Pros

• Convenience: A single bill, one customer service number, and unified account management simplifies your household finances.
• Discounts: Many suppliers offer specific discounts for dual fuel customers, reducing your overall bill.

Cons

• Not Always Cheapest: While often competitive, a dual fuel tariff is not guaranteed to be the cheapest option. Sometimes, sourcing gas and electricity from two different suppliers can result in a lower total cost.
• Exit Fees: Fixed-rate deals frequently include exit fees, which can be a barrier if you want to switch again to a better deal that appears later.

Key Considerations Before Committing

Careful review of the contract terms is non-negotiable. The headline price or monthly estimate is only part of the story. Pay close attention to the following:

• Contract Length: Are you committing for 12, 18, or 24 months?
• Exit Fee Amount: How much would it cost you to leave the contract early? This is a critical figure.
• Discount Terms: Is the discount applied for the full term or only for an introductory period? Understand precisely how and when you will receive it.

Always read the full terms and conditions. A promotional cashback offer may be less valuable than a slightly higher tariff with no exit fees and better long-term value.

Exploring Alternatives to Dual Fuel

While dual fuel tariffs are a strong option for many, they are not the only choice. The main alternative is to source your gas and electricity from separate suppliers. This approach requires more administration but can sometimes yield greater savings. It is worth running a comparison for separate supplies in parallel with your dual fuel search to see which offers the best financial outcome.

Another consideration is a green energy tariff. These are available in both dual fuel and single-fuel formats and ensure that some or all of the electricity you use is matched with purchases of renewable energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dual fuel tariff?

A dual fuel tariff means you get both your gas and electricity from the same energy supplier on a single, consolidated bill.

Is dual fuel always the cheapest option?

Not necessarily. While suppliers often provide discounts for dual fuel customers, it can sometimes be cheaper to get your gas and electricity from two different providers. It is always best to compare all options.

How long does it take to switch energy suppliers?

The switching process is typically completed within 5 working days. Your new supplier will manage the entire process.

Will my energy be cut off during the switch?

No, your energy supply will not be interrupted. The switch is a seamless administrative process, and the physical supply of gas and electricity to your home remains unchanged.

What are exit fees?

Exit fees are charges that some suppliers apply if you leave a fixed-term contract before its end date. You must check for these before agreeing to a deal.

How does the energy price cap affect dual fuel tariffs?

The Ofgem price cap limits the rates a supplier can charge for its default tariffs. While it provides a safety net, it does not cap your total bill. Many of the best-value fixed deals are priced below the cap.

Your Next Move

To determine if a dual fuel tariff is the right choice for you, the most effective action is to conduct a personalised comparison. Use an Ofgem-accredited comparison tool and enter your postcode and usage details from a recent bill. This will provide you with a clear, data-driven view of the potential savings and tariff options available in your area.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Energy prices are subject to change. Always carry out your own research and use a reputable comparison service before switching providers.