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Getting the best deal from your energy supplier

14:37 Thu 27th May 2010 |

Getting the best deal from your energy supplier

Winter is a time when most households turn the heating up to full and bask in its life-giving warmth for four months straight; but by the time January comes around everyone is dreading the huge bill all that heat has racked up dropping through their letterbox.

It is common knowledge that you cannot haggle down energy prices in the same way you may do in an electronics store, so getting discounts on your power can be difficult – but there are ways.

Switching


The term ‘switching’, in regards to energy, is when you swap providers and change the way you pay your bills. Although this may seem like a lot of unnecessary hassle, switching could save you up to £300 on your overall energy bill, leaving you to pocket a tidy sum.

There are two ways to go about switching and saving money on your energy bill, firstly by looking for a cheaper supplier.

There are many price comparison websites around that let you find the most competitive rates, but often the best way to save money is to ring around and speak to different providers in person. This way you can get a good overview of prices and attempt to play providers quotes off of each other.

Another great way to save money on your energy bill is to change your payment method. Those that pay by direct debit and use online billing will find that they can save hundreds of pounds each year opposed to paying by cash. Paying monthly also means that you will save money in the long run, particularly against those who pay quarterly and yearly.

I think I have been overcharged on my power bill… am I paying the right amount?


You may have been incorrectly billed for the services that have been provided to you by your energy supplier. If this is the case, you can lodge a complaint to them.

Click here for more advice on how to complain to your energy provider.


 

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