It is is really easy to switch to a new electricity and gas provider. You can just use a service to quickly compare all of your options and pick the one that's right for you; they can even handle the paperwork if you want.

What You Need

You need to have your complete postcode and a recent gas and electricity bill. The bill lets them have the most up to date information about your consumption. This makes your quote more accurate. If you can't find it, then don't worry. You can just answer a few extra questions to give them the information we need.

• Step 1: Postcode

  Simply inform them of your postcode. Prices often change greatly based on location.

• Step 2: Name Your Supplier and Give Us Your Current Consumption

  This is another fairly easy process. Just answer a couple of questions about your supplier, your usage, and your average costs. It shouldn't take any longer than about 5 minutes.

• Step 3: Describe What You Want

  Describe the energy plan that you need and the cost range that you can work within; this helps them narrow down your choices.

• Step 4: Pick a Plan

  Comparison sites use the information that you gave them earlier to compile a complete list of suppliers and show the savings that each offers. They’ll also include reports on customer satisfaction so that you have more information for your decision. Read through this information and pick the plan that you like.

• Step 5: Work With Us to Switch

  You need to give them you address and name. They can then use this to help you go through an online application to your new company. This shouldn't take more than 5 minutes.

  Once you are done, you just have to confirm it. They can then direct your application to your future supplier. They then cancel your plan with your old supplier and start processing your new account.

  After this is done, you just have to settle your old account. Pay your last bill and cancel any future direct deposits that you may have set up. Then just take a final meter reading for your old and new supplier. Congratulations, you just switched suppliers.

What Happens Next?

We cover all of the common concerns below. Just take a look.

Will the Switch Interrupt my Energy Supply?

No. Your energy will still go through the same wires and pipes. There isn't any need to physically change anything and you shouldn't experience any interruption. The bills are the only things that change.

How Long Does It Take to Process the Switch?

It usually takes roughly 4 to 6 weeks for your switch to be confirmed. Your new company should contact the old supplier at some point to agree on a date to make the switch. They will inform you of it once the date is set.

Will My New Supplier Contact Me?

Yes. They should send an official letter and a little welcoming bundle that detail your agreement.

Will I be billed twice?

No. The two suppliers set a specific switch date to avoid this problem. Just make sure that you cancel any direct debit plan you have set up with your old provider.

What if I change my mind?

It's alright. There is a 14 day period in which you can change your mind. If you do change your mind, then just call your new supplier to cancel the switch.

Can I switch suppliers again?

Sure. You are allowed to make a switch once every 28 days. Be careful of any cancellation charges that they may levy.