Dual fuel Switching myths vs facts

Making Sense of Your Energy Bills

With the energy market in constant flux, it can be difficult to know if switching your gas and electricity supplier is still a worthwhile exercise. This guide cuts through the noise, debunking common myths and presenting the facts to help you make an informed decision about dual fuel tariffs in 2025.

Who Should Read This Guide

This information is for any UK household seeking to manage energy expenditure. Whether you are a homeowner or renter, live in a large family home or a small flat, understanding the current market is crucial. It is particularly relevant if you have been hesitant to switch due to past market volatility or common misconceptions.

Understanding the Energy Landscape

To navigate the market effectively, it helps to be familiar with a few key concepts that shape your bills.

• Dual Fuel Tariff: This is a contract where a single supplier provides both your gas and electricity. It often comes with the convenience of a single bill and may include a discount.
• Ofgem Price Cap: The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) sets a maximum price that suppliers can charge for each unit of energy on a standard variable tariff. As of April 2025, the cap for an average household is £1,849 per year. It is not a cap on your total bill, but on the rates you pay. It provides a safety net against extreme price hikes.
• Fixed vs. Variable Tariffs: A fixed tariff locks in your energy rates for a set period (e.g., 12 or 24 months), offering protection from price rises. A variable tariff means the price you pay can go up or down, usually in line with the Ofgem price cap.

Your Options in the Current Market

The energy market is showing signs of recovery, which means more choice for consumers. There are now 23 active domestic suppliers in Great Britain, a significant increase from the height of the energy crisis. This renewed competition is bringing a wider variety of tariffs back to the market.

While dual fuel tariffs are convenient, you should always compare them against single-fuel deals from different suppliers. In today’s more competitive market, you might find that two separate contracts offer the lowest overall cost.

You also have the option to choose a green tariff. These tariffs often supply 100% renewable electricity or carbon-offset gas, allowing you to align your energy spending with environmental goals and support the UK’s decarbonisation strategy.

The Financial Reality of Switching

After a period of extreme volatility, energy prices have begun to stabilise, but at a level higher than before 2021. The average annual dual fuel bill fell by 17% from the 2023/24 period to 2024/25, but a 2% rise was recorded in October 2025, and no further significant reductions are forecast this year.

What this means for you:

• Don’t delay: Waiting for prices to fall further is a risky strategy. The market has likely bottomed out for now.
• Savings are available: Despite higher baseline prices, switching can still lead to substantial savings. With the average bill at £1,854 in 2024/25, even a small percentage saving is significant.
• Proactivity pays: The return of competition rewards consumers who actively engage with the market and compare deals, rather than remaining on default tariffs.

Who Is Eligible to Switch?

Virtually every household in Great Britain is eligible to switch energy suppliers. This applies whether you own your home or rent, and regardless of your energy consumption level. The myth that only high-usage households benefit is incorrect; savings are relative to your bill, and competitive tariffs are available for all types of customers.

Key protections are in place to make switching accessible:

• Renters: If you pay the energy supplier directly, you have the right to switch. You should check your tenancy agreement first, but landlords cannot unreasonably prevent it.
• Credit Balances: If you are in credit with your old supplier, Ofgem’s rules ensure this money is automatically refunded to you, typically within 10 working days of your final bill.
• Prepayment Meters: Customers with prepayment meters can also switch suppliers to find a better rate.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Switching

The switching process is regulated by Ofgem to be simple, fast, and reliable. There is no risk of being left without power or gas.

1. Find a recent energy bill: This contains your current tariff name and annual consumption.
2. Use an accredited price comparison service: Enter your postcode and usage details.
3. Compare all available tariffs: Look at dual fuel, single fuel, fixed, and variable options.
4. Select the best deal for you: Consider price, contract length, exit fees, and customer service ratings.
5. Confirm the switch: Provide your details to the new supplier via the comparison site.
6. Let your new supplier handle it: They will contact your old supplier and manage the entire transfer.
7. Enjoy your new tariff: The switch is usually completed within 5 working days with no interruption to your supply.

Weighing Up Dual Fuel Tariffs

Combining your energy supply has clear benefits but also potential drawbacks to consider.

Key Considerations Before You Commit

Before finalising a switch, take a moment to review these important points:

• Check for exit fees: If you are on a fixed-term deal, your current supplier might charge a fee for leaving early. Weigh this cost against the potential savings from a new tariff.
• Don’t just look at price: A cheap tariff from a supplier with poor customer service can lead to frustration. Read recent reviews to get a balanced picture.
• Resist market speculation: As prices have now stabilised, delaying a switch in the hope of future drops is unlikely to be beneficial. Secure a good rate now to protect your budget.

Exploring Alternative Strategies

While a dual fuel switch is a powerful tool, it’s not the only way to manage your energy costs.

Single-Fuel Switching

Always run a comparison for gas and electricity separately. The most competitive electricity supplier may not have the best gas price, and vice versa. This approach requires managing two accounts but can maximise savings.

Green Energy Tariffs

Switching to a green tariff is a way to reduce your household’s carbon footprint. Many suppliers now offer tariffs with 100% renewable electricity as standard. This choice supports the UK’s wider net zero ambitions and promotes investment in clean energy infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it still worth switching dual fuel suppliers in 2025?

Yes. With more tariffs available and competition returning, many households can still find savings. The market is more dynamic than in recent years, rewarding those who compare deals.

Will my power be cut off during the switch?

No. The transfer of your energy supply is a seamless administrative process managed by the suppliers. Ofgem regulations guarantee your supply will not be interrupted.

What happens if I have credit with my old supplier?

Your credit balance is protected. Your old supplier is required to refund it to your bank account after generating your final bill.

Is the switching process complicated?

Not at all. The process is designed to be straightforward and is heavily regulated. You simply choose a new tariff, and your new supplier handles all the arrangements.

Is a dual fuel deal always the cheapest option?

No, not always. While often convenient and discounted, you should always compare the cost against taking gas and electricity from two different suppliers to ensure you are getting the best possible price.

Should I wait for energy prices to fall again?

It is not advisable. After a significant drop, wholesale prices have stabilised and are not expected to fall further in 2025. Securing a competitive fixed deal now can provide price certainty.

Your Next Steps

Taking control of your energy bills is easier than you think. Start by gathering the information you need and exploring your options.

Your action plan: Locate a recent energy bill to check your usage, then use an impartial comparison service to see what savings you could make.

Set an annual reminder in your calendar to review your tariff. In a dynamic market, loyalty rarely pays. Proactive management is the key to keeping your bills as low as possible.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Energy prices and tariffs are subject to change. Please ensure you read the full terms and conditions of any new tariff before committing to a switch.