Dual fuel energy tariffs: What are they, and why should you get one?

Dual fuel plans can be the most economical way to get your energy supplied. All it means is you’ll get both gas and electricity from the same supplier, instead of 2 separate ones. 

Read on to find out how a dual fuel tariff can save you money on your gas and electricity.

In this guide you’ll find everything you need to know about:

• What is dual fuel?
• How dual fuel energy plans are better value
• Comparing deals and switching dual fuel deals
• How to find out if you’re on a dual fuel contract
• Do all energy suppliers offer dual fuel tariffs?
• Can anyone get a dual fuel contract?
• Other ways to cut your energy costs

What is dual fuel?

A dual fuel plan or tariff is one where you get both your gas and electricity from the same supplier. There are 3 main reasons why choosing a dual fuel tariff is a good idea:

• The best dual fuel deals can mean you can save money. Many suppliers offer discounts if you’re buying both fuels from them.
• It’s more convenient getting bills from 1 company. Some suppliers even offer a combined bill, making life even simpler
• It can be time-saving to only have 1 point of contact in case of queries or complaints, or even if you’re moving house.

Find out more about our range of different energy plans

Are dual fuel energy plans better value?

Dual fuel plans are often better value, but not always. Energy tariffs change constantly, so it’s worth keeping an  eye on the market. You might find that getting gas and electricity from separate suppliers is cheaper one year, but dual fuel is cheaper the next.  

But generally speaking, most energy suppliers offer their customers a dual fuel discount. This alone can make dual fuel a quick and simple way to reduce the combined cost of your gas and electricity bills.

The discount could come in a number of ways:

• A cheaper unit rate per kilowatt hour (kWh)
• A lower standing charge
• A percentage taken off your bill
• Cashback

Is there anything else different about dual fuel?

Apart from getting 2 fuels from one supplier, possibly for a better price, there are no other differences. The gas and electricity you’re supplied with is exactly the same as it would be on separate tariffs. 

How can I switch to a dual fuel energy tariff?

If you’re not already on a dual fuel plan, it’s pretty easy to switch – especially if you’re only adding 1 fuel to your existing supplier. 

If you can only get the best deal on dual fuel prices by switching both fuels across to a completely new supplier, it’s still a quick and easy process.

Start by comparing the prices of all the dual fuel suppliers in your area. Here at OVO, getting a quote is a cinch. Just have a recent bill to hand from your current gas and electricity supplier(s), so you know what you’re comparing the quotes with, and then enter your postcode to get started.

The most accurate way to compare prices is to check your kilowatt hour (kWh) use per year. You can find it on gas and electricity bills from your current energy supplier(s). Simply type your kWh figures into the relevant box, and you’ll be able to see a very precise comparison of all the dual fuel rates and discounts on offer.

When you’ve found the best dual fuel deal, you’ll just need to enter a few personal and bank details – and your new dual fuel supplier should take care of everything else for you. 

What should I look for when comparing dual fuel deals?

There are a few things to think about when looking for a dual fuel deal:

• Price: Luckily, by comparing dual fuel prices, it’s likely you’ll be able to find a better deal.
• Exit fees: If you decide to leave your contract early, it’s good to know how much you’d have to pay to be released from your contract.
• Contract length: a lower price may mean a longer contract, which could stop you switching if a better deal comes along and you have exit fees to pay. 
• Supplier ratings: a good reputation for customer service is vital for some. If you need to contact your supplier for any reason, you might be thankful you paid that little bit extra, rather than just going for the cheapest option. 

As always, doing a little research to track down the best dual fuel deal is your best bet. Check out our useful guide on how to switch energy suppliers. 

Am I on a dual fuel contract already?

If you get both gas and electricity from the same supplier, chances are you’re on a dual fuel tariff, but that’s not for sure. The easiest way to find out is to check your energy bills or statements. If they don’t seem to show that you’re on a dual fuel deal, call your supplier to find out, and ask whether you could save money by changing to dual fuel prices.

If you currently get your gas and electricity from 2 different suppliers, you’re definitely not on a dual fuel contract.

Do all energy suppliers offer dual fuel tariffs?

 Many suppliers offer dual fuel tariffs, but not all. Check out a couple of different options to help you decide which one to go for. 

Will I get the same gas and electricity with dual fuel as I would on a single fuel contract?

Yes. You’ll get exactly the same gas and electricity delivered to your home. All suppliers use the same pipes and cables to deliver their energy. The only difference is that you’re getting them at a lower price because the energy supplier is supplying both your fuels. 

Can anyone get a dual fuel contract?

Anyone who uses both mains electricity and mains gas can switch to a dual fuel contract. 

But if you use just electricity, or electricity with oil, solid fuel or bottled gas, it’s not possible to sign up for dual fuel. 

How to be more energy efficient

The best way to use less energy is to make sure your home and all your electrical appliances are working as efficiently as possible. 

Insulating your home is one of the best ways to save energy, as less of that lovely warmth escapes. The Energy Saving Trust reckons that by insulating your roof and walls, and improving your heating system if you’re able, you could save around £300 a year1. You’d be cutting your home’s carbon emissions too, so it’s a win for the environment.  

Some energy-saving methods are expensive, like double glazing and replacing your boiler with a low-carbon alternative. But there are quick and easy ways that are on the cheaper end of the spectrum too. Here are a few that can help you be more energy efficient:

1. When you boil a kettle, only use as much water as you need.
2. Turn appliances off at the wall – don’t leave them on standby.
3. Use energy-saving light bulbs.
4. Defrost your freezer regularly.
5. Get draught excluders for outside doors, windows and letterboxes.
6. Slip an insulating jacket on your hot water tank – you could save around £35 a year
7.  When using your washing machine, never set it higher than 30C

Sources and references:

¹ https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-insulation/roof-and-loft