Updated •3 min read

Debunked: 4 myths about switching gas and electricity provider

Written by: Credit Karma Staff
a couple reviewing their bills in the kitchenImage: a couple reviewing their bills in the kitchen

In a Nutshell

There are lots of myths floating around about switching energy providers. The truth is, the whole process is pretty much taken care of by your current energy provider and your new energy provider once you’ve set the wheels in motion.

On average, the whole process is completed within 15 to 20 days. You’re guaranteed not to have a gap in your energy supply while the energy provider switches over, and you won’t be billed twice while it’s happening either.

  1. It’s not worth switching – all energy providers charge pretty much the same
  2. It takes forever to switch energy providers
  3. I’ve heard you can end up getting your energy supply turned off while energy providers switch over
  4. I’ll only end up being charged twice while my energy providers switch over

1. It’s not worth switching – all energy providers charge pretty much the same

Switching energy providers can feel like just another form of “life admin.” but the sad reality is that being loyal and sticking with the same provider can really cost you big over time.

Energy regulator Ofgem noted that many customers could save by switching to a better tariff with a different provider.

As is the case with most bills and services, new customers typically do get the best deals.

2. It takes forever to switch energy providers

Finding a new deal and applying for it is the only bit you’ll have to do yourself. Depending on who you go with, this can take anywhere from 5 minutes upward.

Once you’ve locked in a price you’re happy with — and there are some surprisingly good deals out there given you’re paying for the same energy — your current energy provider and your new energy provider talk to each other to figure things out for you.

According to Ofgem, the current total average switching time is up to 5 working days. Not too bad really, considering your only job is to set things in motion and let the pros take over.

3. I’ve heard you can end up getting your energy supply turned off while energy providers switch over

This comes up a lot, and it’s a fair question. Nobody wants to lose electricity or gas, even for a little while.

The good news is that there’s no risk your energy will be cut off. Everything about the way the energy is supplied will remain the same, it’s just the brand that’s supplying it that will change.

This is another element you needn’t worry about, as your new energy provider will arrange to take over from your current energy provider in the background.

4. I’ll only end up being charged twice while my energy providers switch over

You might receive two bills in the month that the switch takes place, but your new energy provider and your current energy provider will use the same meter reading to open and close your respective accounts. That means there’s no chance you’ll pay for the same energy twice.

Bottom line

When it comes to energy supply, the onus is unfortunately on you to make sure you’re getting a good and fair price. Think of it this way: Gas and electricity are the exact same products no matter who is supplying them to your home, so it makes sense to only pay what you have to.