Switch energy supplier before winter to save £100s
It's beginning to get cold and households up and down the country are starting to turn on the heating. But it's not too late to find a cheaper energy deal and cut down your heating bill.
That's why the Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) has kick started its 'Power to Switch' campaign, aimed at anyone who hasn't recently scoured the market for a cheaper energy tariff.
If you haven't had a look at the various energy deals on offer, now's a great time to check.
Switching energy? Here's how
Switching energy supplier is simpler than it sounds. It only takes 20 minutes to check whether you could be unnecessarily spending money on your bills, and you could save up to £200 on your annual bill.
You can switch online, over the phone, or even by using one of the new switching apps.
The Be An Energy Shopper website could help you.
Everything you need to know about switching energy supplier
Does your old supplier owe you £50?
Already switched energy supplier? Well there's something for you to do as well.
If you switched supplier when your account was in credit, your previous energy supplier might owe you some money.
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In fact, Ofgem estimates that 3.5 million homes are owed a joint total of £200 million.
It's worth remembering that:
It doesn't matter how long ago you switched supplier – all legitimate claims will be refunded.
The average balance for those who are owed money is £50.
How did this happen?
Well, different suppliers had different rules. Some didn't automatically refund customers if they were owed under a certain amount and, in some cases, they might have been unable to reach you. For example, if the account holder died, or you moved home.
If you think you might be owed some money, then you can head to Money Saving Expert to find out. Anyone who thinks they might be owed money, but is unable to access the internet, can phone 0370 737 7770, or send a letter to Freepost RTHL-ZYBU-KBCC, My Energy Credit, 47 Aylesbury Road, Thame, OX9 3PG.
Did your old supplier owe you money? Did you save a lot by switching? Let us know in the comment section below.
This article is provided by the Money Advice Service.
