Many UK households know that switching energy supplier can reduce their bills — but far fewer realise that when you switch can make a significant difference to how much you save.
In 2026, energy prices are more competitive than in recent years, but the gap between the cheapest fixed deals and expensive default tariffs remains wide. Switching at the wrong time can mean missed savings, exit fees, or being rolled onto costly standard variable tariffs.
✅ When Your Fixed Tariff Is Ending
For most UK households, the best time to switch energy supplier is just before your fixed tariff ends.
Under Ofgem rules, you can switch without exit fees in the final 49 days of a fixed contract, lock in a new deal before your current one expires, and avoid being moved onto an expensive standard variable tariff.
Best practice: Start comparing energy deals 30–45 days before your fixed tariff end date.
If you're already on a standard variable tariff (SVT), the answer is simple:
👉 Switch as soon as possible
Standard variable tariffs are rarely the cheapest option, can change in price at any time, and often cost hundreds of pounds more per year.
There are no exit fees on SVTs, so there is no financial reason to delay switching if a cheaper deal is available.
This is often the best time of year to switch energy supplier.
Spring is a strong secondary window for switching.
Savings are still possible, but deals may be less aggressive.
Switching is still possible and sometimes necessary, but winter is generally the least favourable time.
A quick comparison can show whether switching early still delivers net savings.
Even in these cases, it's still worth comparing — just not always switching immediately.
Find this on your latest energy bill or online account.
This gives you time to compare and switch without rushing.
Use your actual annual consumption (kWh) for accurate comparisons.
Look for deals with reasonable exit fees and good customer service ratings.
Allow 2-5 working days for the switch to complete.
Many households forget when their fixed tariff ends and get automatically rolled onto expensive variable rates.
Assuming loyalty leads to better prices, when new customers often get the best deals.
Delaying switching while waiting for "the perfect time" often means missing savings.
Staying on default tariffs out of habit or fear of switching complexity.
In reality, regular switching beats perfect timing every time.
Only if exit fees outweigh savings. Otherwise, switching is usually beneficial regardless of timing. The key is to calculate whether early exit fees are less than the savings you'll make on the new tariff.
Yes. It may not always be the cheapest time of year, but it's still better than staying on an expensive tariff. If you're on a standard variable tariff or your fixed deal is ending, switch immediately regardless of the season.
Most experts recommend comparing prices once per year. If you're on a fixed tariff, check the market 45 days before it ends. If you're on a variable tariff, check every 6-12 months as prices can change at any time.
No. Your gas and electricity supply is never interrupted when switching suppliers. The same pipes, wires, and meters are used regardless of who bills you for the energy.
The best time to switch energy supplier in the UK is before your fixed tariff ends or as soon as possible if you're on a standard variable tariff. Seasonal trends can influence pricing, but your personal tariff situation matters far more than the calendar.
Households that review their energy deal annually — and switch at the right moment — consistently save hundreds of pounds compared with those who don't.
Check the Best Time to Switch in Your AreaCompare today's energy deals and lock in savings
Complete guide to safely switching energy suppliers and maximizing your savings.
Compare all major energy suppliers and find the best deals for your home.
2026 rankings of the most affordable energy suppliers for UK households.
Detailed comparison of tariff types and which is best for your situation.