Switch Gas Providers for Cost-Effective Gas Solutions
Saving on Gas Bills: A Comprehensive Guide
Switching gas suppliers can potentially save you around 22%, making it an attractive option for many households. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
First, you'll need to gather some essential information. This includes your gas meter number, which can be found on your latest gas bill or on the gas meter itself. For tenants, if you can't find the gas meter number, you can contact your landlord or building manager.
Once you have your gas meter number, you can use a gas comparison tool to compare various suppliers and their news. The choice of news may depend on price, individual features like green gas tariffs, bio tariffs, or climate tariffs, or customer reviews. It's best to read reviews and any complaints about the provider before switching, as they can provide helpful insights.
When you've decided on a new supplier, you'll need to sign a contract. After that, the new supplier will handle the rest of the process. If you want to cancel your old gas supplier yourself, send a written notice, either by email, post, or fax, with a request for confirmation. Ideally, the shortest possible cancellation periods are best, with 4 weeks being good, anything over 6 weeks not recommended.
It's worth noting that if you still have an old contract with your local basic supplier, it's 2 weeks to cancel. But if you've canceled a gas supplier in the past, check the remaining contract term, as you might be bound for at least 1 year.
Many suppliers advertise a price guarantee for certain periods. This secures a certain gas price, even if prices rise during the period (which they currently are). On the other hand, you can't benefit from falling prices. Independent tests of gas suppliers are regularly carried out, for example by Stiftung Warentest. Orientate yourself on these tests when choosing a new gas supplier.
It's also crucial to avoid package offers when switching gas suppliers, as they can lead to unnecessary costs if consumption is below or above the purchased package. Instead, make a direct comparison by requiring the current tariff details.
Ideally, switch gas suppliers in September and October, as the heating season starts afterwards, ensuring affordable supply for the winter. If you're moving, you can cancel with a two-week notice by referring to your upcoming move for the current gas supplier. For the new home, you can then sign a new contract. If you already have a contract with another provider, the two-week notice period does not apply.
The gas calculator tool can help find the cheapest gas price by comparing over 20,000 gas tariffs. On the switch-over date, the current gas meter reading needs to be sent to the network operator. If you have a contract with a longer contract term, it's best to switch to a new tariff 6 to 8 weeks before it expires. Checking the tariff once a year is recommended due to increased competition in the gas market.
Lastly, be cautious with offers that come with a bonus, as the bonus is usually paid out after the contract period ends. Also, be aware that a number of providers advertise with eco-gas tariffs, but the benefit is questionable due to a lack of reliable orientation with seals according to the Federal Association of Consumer Centres.
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and potentially save hundreds of euros annually on your gas bills.
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