Use the 10-month rule
If you signed a 12-month discounted energy deal, check the market around month 10. That gives you time to compare, decide, and switch before the discount expires.
Waiting until month 12 can still work, but it increases the chance of drifting onto a higher standard rate while you sort out the next move.
Other times to check
Renewal is the main trigger, but it is not the only one. Provider price changes, a move to a smart meter tariff, a new EV, or a change in household usage can all justify a fresh comparison.
You should also review after a major bill shock. Sometimes the issue is usage, but often it is an expired discount or a tariff that no longer fits.
- Your discount is within two months of ending.
- Your provider announces a price change.
- You install an EV charger or shift usage overnight.
- You move from standard to smart meter pricing.
- Your direct debit rises without a clear usage reason.
Check exit fees before acting
If you are on a standard variable tariff, switching is usually straightforward. If you are in a fixed-term contract, check the exit fee and contract terms first.
A switch can still make sense if the annual saving is much larger than the fee, but the calculation should be deliberate.
Useful sources
- CRU energy suppliers list
- CRU energy market monitoring
- ESB Networks smart meters