For growing bills and other complications, users often switch their energy suppliers. Switching to a new supplier can save money and offer convenient deals. But, the question is – how long does the switching process take?
Most suppliers guarantee to complete the entire process within 21 days. They also offer a 14-day “cooling off” period so you can finalize the deal wisely.
This article will clarify all the things relevant to the energy supplier switching time.
What Is The Cooling-Off Period For Switching Energy Suppliers?
The Cooling-Off period is a time within which you can cancel the switching. It is a 14-day period and you can cancel the switching without any penalty.
For example, you switch the supplier on February 1st. You are allowed to change your mind and decide to stay with your current supplier before February 15. Though the switching process would be completed on February 21, the cool-off period lets you cancel the process within February 15.
The time is given to the energy customer so they can review the deal and compare it to others. To cancel the switching, you just need to contact the new supplier within 14 days.
What Are The Factors Affecting Supplier Switching Time?
The factors below can affect the time of switching energy suppliers.
1. Switching can be complex:
The process is not as simple as it looks. If you decide to change both gas and electricity suppliers together, the process will be more complex and lengthy compared to single energy switching. When switching gas and electricity at a time, it is ensured that meter readings are submitted accurately for both. It is a complex task that involves more back-and-forth communication with the new supplier.
2. The type of contract can be an issue:
Unlike variable contracts, breaking a fixed-term contract early can be more complicated and time-consuming. In such a situation, the process often includes exit fees.
Guess that you have a fixed-term electricity contract with the current supplier. However, you have found a cheaper deal somewhere else. Now you have to analyse the exit fees associated with early termination. Managing the process can delay the switching.
3. Supplier’s communication skills:
The communication efficiency of a supplier is a key factor that affects the switching time. If a supplier can quickly understand your needs and handle the switching requests accordingly, the task will be completed swiftly. On the other hand, delays in communication and unclear instructions will surely extend the switching process.
What Does The Energy-Switching Process Involve?
The process begins with preparation and ends with a successful switching. Here are the things that come sequentially in the energy-switching process.
Read More: How To Choose The Best Energy Broker For Businesses In The UK
The preparation phase:
- You have to compare the energy deals first. It can be done using a comparison website or manual attempts. During the comparison, check the factors thoroughly including the price, length of the contract, exit fee, etc. Also, check if any supplier offers green energy options.
- Gather all necessary information and documents required for the switching. They generally include the latest energy bill, meter reading, your present tariff details and account number.
- When the comparison and information accumulation is complete, choose a new supplier wisely.
The switching stage:
- After selecting an energy supplier, contact them to begin the switching process. You can communicate with them online, over the phone, or face to face.
- Provide essential information to the new supplier, including your details, current energy provider details, and meter readings.
- If you have a fixed energy contract, you need to pay an exit fee to your current supplier. This one is an additional step only applicable to fixed-term contracts.
- When the required information is submitted to the new supplier, they will handle the procedure. It involves communication with your existing provider and confirm the switch date.
- Finally, you have to wait 14 to 21 days to accomplish the switching process. Your new supplier will confirm when you have switched successfully.
What happens to my energy supply during the switch?
During the switching process, your active energy supply will not be interrupted. So, you do not worry about losing your energy supply suddenly.
When the switching process happens, it involves no change in the physical infrastructure delivering your energy. The switching sets who bills you for the energy you use.
You will keep receiving an energy bill from the old supplier until the switching date. After that day, the new supplier will start sending you energy bills based on your usage.
It is just a process of transferring the energy billing authority from one supplier to another where no interruption occurs. However, if you notice any interruption or issue, contact the new energy supplier immediately.
Why choose London Gas and Power to switch your Energy Supplier?
Most consumers find it difficult to switch their existing energy suppliers due to several complications. In such a case, professional consultancy is advised to make all the procedures simplified.
London Gas and Power is one of the leading energy consultancy firms in the United Kingdom that guides users every step of the way.
Their experts identify your energy needs, and budget and find the accurate energy solution or contract for you after endless comparisons.
Along with finding the best deal, they handle all the paperwork and communication involved in the switching process. They also answer all questions of users and explain everything in the switching process simply which helps you stay confident about what is going on.
If you want to switch your existing energy provider with no hassle, London Gas and Power can be your desired assistant. They focus on effortless switching, saving money, and consistent support, even after the completion of the switching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I switch suppliers instantly?
No. The process involves several tasks handled by the new supplier. Also, the consumer is given a cooling-off time to change their decision. So, immediate switching is irrational.
Q. Can I cancel the switch?
Yes. You have a 14-day cooling-off time to change your switching decision or cancel the process.
Q. What time is best to switch energy suppliers?
Most users prefer spring and fall to switch energy suppliers because they rely less on their heating and cooling systems.
Q. Are there any penalties for switching suppliers frequently?
There is no direct penalty for such practices. However, some suppliers may charge high cancellation fees which can be a cost issue.
London Gas and Power
https://www.londongasandpower.co.ukWe established energy consultancy firm focused on serving the comprehensive needs of businesses to save money on their energy bills.