Energy Switching Myths Busted: Why Comparing Prices Isn’t as Hard as You Think

Many people intend to switch their energy provider… and then just don’t get around to it.

Not because they don’t want to save money – but because of the ‘what ifs’:

• What if it’s complicated?
• What if things go wrong?
• What if it’s just not worth the hassle?

Well, the good news is that most of these ‘what ifs’ are simply the result of a few common myths – and once you get rid of these myths, you’ll see just how simple the process of switching can be.

Let’s look at the myths and the realities:

Myth 1 – Switching Energy Supplier Is Complicated and Time-Consuming

The myth:

Switching is a hassle – forms to fill out, phone calls to make, technical jargon to decipher.

The reality:

Switching is a lot simpler than you might think.

• All you need to do is compare prices – which only takes a few minutes
• You simply enter your postcode and a few other details and see what deals are available
• Then just choose a deal and the supplier will take care of the rest

No phone calls to make to your existing supplier – they’ll do everything behind the scenes.

And the whole process can take as few as 17 days with the Guaranteed Switching Timeline – and you don’t even need to lift a finger.

Myth 2 – My Energy Supply Will Be Cut Off When I Switch

The myth:

If you switch energy supplier, you risk being cut off.

The reality:

Your energy supply remains just the same.

• The same pipes and wires carry on delivering the same energy
• Your meter remains the same (unless you choose to change it)
• The only difference is the company sending your bills

There is no gap, no downtime, and no risk of not having any energy. It all happens behind the scenes.

Myth 3 — I’ll Be Locked In or Hit With Huge Exit Fees

The Myth:

Making the switch means signing a new contract, and if I want to leave, I’ll be charged a huge exit fee.

The Reality:

It depends on your tariff, and in most cases, it’s easy to find out.

• With a fixed energy tariff, there may be exit fees if you want to leave your contract early.
• You can switch without a fee if you’re within 49 days of your contract ending.
• With a variable tariff, there are no exit fees whatsoever.

The main thing to bear in mind here is that any fees are clearly displayed when you compare, so there are no nasty surprises waiting for you.

Myth 4 — Switching Energy Won’t Save Me Much Money

The Myth:

It won’t be worth all the hassle, and the money I save won’t be worth it.

The Reality:

For many people, the difference can be quite noticeable.

• For many households, standard variable tariffs (SVTs) are one of the most expensive options.
• Fixed tariffs can often be a more competitive option.
• How much money you save also depends on your home and your usage.

The only way to find out how much you could save is to compare energy prices, and many people are surprised when they do.

Myth 5 — Comparing Energy Prices Affects My Credit Score

The Myth:

Even looking around and comparing prices could damage your credit score.

The Reality:

Comparing energy prices has absolutely no effect whatsoever on your credit score.

• You can browse and compare for free and anonymously
• No credit check is performed at this time
• Some suppliers may perform a soft check when you apply, but this does not affect your credit score

So, no worries about any knock-on effects to your credit score.

Myth 6 – I Can’t Switch if I Rent

The myth:

If you rent, then your landlord is responsible for choosing the supplier.

The reality:

Most often, the choice is yours.

• If the account is in your name, then you are free to switch
• You don’t need to get permission from your landlord
• If your rent includes the cost of the energy, then it is worth checking to see what tariff is being used

Many renters are overpaying for their gas and electric because they think this is the case, when in fact, they are free to switch and save money.

Myth 7 – Smaller or Newer Suppliers Are a No-Go

The myth:

Only the bigger, well-known suppliers are safe to switch to.

The reality:

All suppliers are regulated and approved by Ofgem to supply gas and electric to UK households.

• If a supplier goes out of business, then your supply is not cut off
• You are moved to a new supplier through a process called “Supplier of Last Resort”
• You are protected if you have a positive balance on your account

Only approved and active suppliers are shown to you through a comparison service, so you are not taking a risk if you choose to explore different options.

Myth 8 – The Cheapest Tariff Is Always the Best Tariff to Choose

The myth:

Just choose the one that is cheapest and you are good to go.

The reality:

Not quite that simple, sadly.

• Fixed tariffs give a sense of price certainty, and this can be important in winter
• Other important factors might include customer service, green energy, and flexibility

The “best” tariff is one that matches your actual pattern of use, not just one with a cheap price

How To Compare Energy Prices in Minutes with Simply Switch

Are you curious to know how much you could save? It’s easy to find out:

1. Just enter your postcode, your energy usage, or an estimate, and compare tariffs based on cost, not price.
2. Choose a tariff that suits you and then switch.
3. Everything is handled for you, and your supply won’t be interrupted.

You won’t even need to contact your old supplier.

FAQs

Will I lose energy when I switch supplier?

No, your energy supply will continue uninterrupted.

Do I need to tell my old supplier I’m leaving?

No, your new supplier takes care of this.

Is there a best time of year to switch?

You can switch whenever you like, but many people like to review their options before winter or when prices are changing.

What if I switch and then decide I want to switch back?

You can switch again if you want to and check your current supplier for exit fees.

How do I know if I’m getting a good deal?

The easiest way to be sure is to compare prices based on your actual usage.

Conclusion – The Biggest Energy Myth of All Is That Switching Isn’t Worth It

The biggest obstacle to switching isn’t the process, it’s the perception of it.

• It’s quicker and simpler than most people think
• There is no risk to your energy supply
• It is free to compare and will have no impact on your credit score
• And for many, it could also mean significant savings

When you cut through the misconceptions, switching is no longer daunting, it becomes very attractive.