Dual fuel Switching explained: what it is and how it works

Streamlining Your Household Energy

Managing household expenses requires careful attention, and energy bills represent a significant portion of any budget. A dual fuel tariff, which combines your gas and electricity supply under a single provider, presents an opportunity for greater simplicity and potential cost savings. Understanding how these tariffs work is the first step towards making an informed decision about your home’s energy.

This guide is for any UK household seeking to better understand their energy options. Whether you are looking to reduce your administrative burden, find a more competitive price, or simply make sense of your bills, this information will help you navigate the energy market with confidence. Most UK homes are eligible for dual fuel tariffs, making this a relevant option for millions.

Understanding Dual Fuel Tariffs

At its core, a dual fuel tariff is a contract with a single supplier for both your gas and electricity. This consolidation is designed for convenience and efficiency.

Key Terminology

• Dual Fuel Tariff: A single plan covering both gas and electricity from one provider, resulting in one consolidated bill and a single point of contact.
• Single Fuel Tariff: Separate plans for gas and electricity, which may be with different suppliers.
• Energy Switch Guarantee: A UK-specific commitment ensuring that any switch between suppliers is completed smoothly within three to five days, with no interruption to your energy supply. It also guarantees a 14-day cooling-off period should you change your mind.
• Smart Meter: A device that automatically records your gas and electricity usage and sends it to your supplier. They are fully compatible with dual fuel tariffs and provide real-time data to help you monitor consumption.

The primary appeal of dual fuel is administrative simplicity. One bill, one supplier, and one contact number can significantly reduce the hassle of managing your home energy.

Exploring Your Energy Choices

When considering a dual fuel switch, you will encounter various tariff types. The best choice depends on your attitude to risk and your environmental priorities.

Most suppliers offer both fixed and variable rate dual fuel tariffs. A fixed-rate tariff locks in the price you pay per unit of energy for a set period- typically 12 or 24 months. This provides budget certainty, but you might miss out if market prices fall. A standard variable tariff (SVT) has rates that can rise or fall in line with wholesale energy costs and Ofgem’s price cap.

Supporting a Greener Future

Many UK suppliers now provide dual fuel tariffs backed by renewable energy. These plans guarantee that for every unit of electricity you use, an equivalent amount is generated and supplied to the grid from sources like wind or solar. This allows you to streamline your bills while supporting the UK’s transition to a net-zero economy. These green tariffs are becoming increasingly competitive and are a practical way to align your household spending with environmental values.

The Financial Implications of Switching

While convenience is a major draw, the financial impact is a critical factor. Dual fuel tariffs can offer savings, but this is not guaranteed.

Suppliers often provide discounts as an incentive to bundle your gas and electricity. However, the most economical option fluctuates with market conditions. As of October 2025, the average annual dual fuel bill for a typical household stands at £1,755, influenced by the energy price cap. While this is lower than the peaks seen in 2023, it remains higher than pre-crisis levels. This figure serves as a benchmark, but your actual bill will depend on your usage and tariff.

It is essential to be aware of potential costs associated with switching. If you are on a fixed-term contract, leaving early may trigger an exit fee. These fees vary by supplier, so you must check your current contract’s terms before proceeding.

The Switching Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Switching to a dual fuel tariff is a straightforward process, protected by the Energy Switch Guarantee.

1. Gather Your Information: Have a recent energy bill to hand. You will need your current supplier’s name and tariff details.
2. Compare Tariffs: Use an accredited price comparison service to compare dual fuel deals.
3. Choose Your New Tariff: Select the deal that best suits your needs in terms of cost, contract length, and customer service.
4. Complete the Application: Apply for the new tariff online or over the phone. Your new supplier will handle the rest.
5. The Switch Happens: Your new supplier will inform your old one and manage the transfer. There will be no interruption to your power.
6. Cooling-Off Period: You have a 14-day cooling-off period from the moment you agree to the contract to cancel without penalty.
7. Final Bill: You will receive a final bill from your old supplier. Your new contract begins.

Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks

Before committing, it is wise to consider both sides of the dual fuel proposition.

Key Considerations Before You Commit

To ensure you are making the right choice, a few checks are necessary.

• Review Exit Fees: Before anything else, check if your current contract has an early exit fee. This could negate any potential savings from switching.
• Compare Diligently: Do not assume a dual fuel tariff is the cheapest. Always run a comparison for both dual fuel and single fuel options. Market volatility can mean two separate deals offer better value.
• Check Customer Service: Price is important, but so is service. Look at customer satisfaction scores and reviews for any supplier you are considering.

Alternatives to a Dual Fuel Tariff

Consolidating your energy supply is not the only option. The most important action is to actively compare the market. If your analysis shows that sourcing your gas and electricity from two different providers is cheaper, then that is the most logical financial choice. The administrative burden of two bills may be a small price to pay for significant annual savings.

Furthermore, you can prioritise green energy by choosing a specialist renewable electricity supplier and a separate provider for gas, which could even be a supplier offering carbon-offset gas tariffs. The key is to compare all available options to find the combination that best fits your budget and values.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a dual fuel tariff?

A dual fuel tariff is a single contract with one energy company that supplies both your gas and electricity. This means you receive one combined bill and deal with one provider for all your energy needs.

Will my energy supply be interrupted if I switch?

No. The switch is a seamless administrative process managed by your new supplier. Under the Energy Switch Guarantee, your gas and electricity supply will continue without any interruption.

Is switching to a dual fuel tariff always the cheapest option?

Not necessarily. While suppliers often offer discounts, market conditions can sometimes make it cheaper to have separate gas and electricity providers. It is crucial to compare both dual fuel and single fuel deals before deciding.

How long does it take to switch to a new dual fuel supplier?

The switch itself is typically completed within three to five days, as protected by the Energy Switch Guarantee. The entire process, from application to the first bill from your new provider, is designed to be quick and simple.

Can I get a dual fuel tariff if I have a smart meter?

Yes, smart meters are fully compatible with dual fuel tariffs. Many suppliers will even encourage you to have one installed when you switch, as it helps provide accurate bills and track your energy usage in real-time.

Are there renewable energy options for dual fuel tariffs?

Yes, many UK suppliers offer dual fuel tariffs that are backed by 100% renewable electricity. This allows you to combine your bills while also supporting sustainable energy generation.

Your Next Steps to Switching

To take control of your energy bills, the first step is to assess your current situation. Locate your most recent energy bill to understand your current usage and costs. With this information, you can use a trusted comparison tool to see how your current tariff measures up against available dual fuel deals. Remember to factor in any potential exit fees from your current provider to calculate the true value of switching.