Families with 3+ occupants are overpaying by £600–£1,200 annually. Our strategic comparison guide reveals exactly how to secure the right tariff for high usage homes.
Contact UsFor high-usage homes, a 2p difference in unit rate can cost over £300 annually. Standing charges become secondary.
Most families default to expensive variable tariffs linked to the price cap, missing out on fixed-rate protection.
You cannot use the same comparison method as small flats. Large households need tariffs optimized for consumption, not low standing charges.
| Tariff Type | Verdict for Large Households | Key Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Tariff | ✅ USUALLY BEST | Price certainty. Often cheaper than price cap. Full protection from market spikes. |
| Variable Tariff | ❌ RARELY BEST | Prices change quarterly. High exposure to wholesale price spikes. Most families overpay here. |
| Household Size | Typical Annual Cost (2026) | Potential Annual Saving* |
|---|---|---|
| 3 people | £1,800 – £2,300 | £400 – £750 |
| 4 people | £2,100 – £2,700 | £500 – £900 |
| 5+ people | £2,400 – £3,200 | £600 – £1,200+ |
*Savings vs. remaining on a poor-value or standard variable tariff.
The default tariff is rarely optimal. It's designed for convenience, not savings.
Choosing "cheap standing charge" deals that have high unit rates—disastrous for high usage.
A few pence difference per kWh compounds to hundreds annually. Scrutinize this number.
Sometimes separate electricity and gas suppliers provide the best combined price.
Your fixed deal expires and you're rolled onto an expensive variable rate automatically.
Electric-Heavy Homes (EVs, Heat Pumps): Prioritize competitive electricity unit rates. Smart tariffs only benefit if you can shift significant usage to off-peak hours.
Economy 7: Usually poor value for families—high daytime rates outweigh cheap nighttime rates.
Renters: You have the legal right to switch supplier if you pay the bill. Opt for no-exit-fee tariffs for maximum flexibility.
Start with your postcode for localized pricing. If you know your annual kWh usage (check your bill), enter it. Otherwise, select the "Large Household" preset (3,000+ kWh electricity, 12,500+ kWh gas).
Select "Fixed Tariffs Only." Filter out tariffs with exit fees if you need flexibility. Consider 12-24 month fixes for maximum price security.
Ignore monthly estimates and headline rates. The only number that matters is the total projected annual cost based on your usage. This factors in standing charges, unit rates, and any discounts.
Compare tariffs optimized for large household usage in 60 seconds. See your exact savings.
No contact details required to browse all available deals. Only share if you decide to switch.