Compare Gas Meter Types
It may come as a surprise when you compare gas prices, but how much you pay could change depending on the type of meter you have installed in your home.
Around six million people in the UK have a prepayment meter, which means they have to pay for electricity and gas upfront. While this can have some advantages (for example, no bills coming in), it often means that you will pay a higher rate for utilities.
Using a prepayment meter means you can easily keep track of the amount of gas you usewhich can help you manage your budget more effectively. If you have gone into arrears with your energy supplier, a prepayment meter can help get rid of the debt.
All the same, if you compare gas prices, you will quickly notice that prepayment meters have many disadvantages. The most obvious is the inconvenienceof having to make trips to the shop to top up your card or key. And if you don’t get to the shop in time, your gas supply could be turned off.
Additionally, the best deals on the energy market are not available to people who pay using a prepayment meter.
If you are on a prepayment meter, it’s a good idea to compare gas prices available using a conventional credit meter, to see if you could save money.
You will be able to switch to a credit account if you have been debt free for at least three months.
Once you have a standard meter in place, you will be able to compare the various gas suppliers, to make sure your provider is offering value for money.
The best way to do this is by using a price comparison site. Instead of contacting all your local suppliers to compare gas prices, all you will need to do is answer a few easy questions.
Some suppliers enable you to switch online, through the comparison siteso you could begin saving money immediately.
Whether you opt to stick with a prepayment meter, or switch to a standard meter, you may be able to cut your bills when you compare gas prices and switch supplier.
