Energy expert urges Brits to do one household job before October 1st

27 September 2023 , 10:30

1262     0

The energy cap is changing (Image: Getty Images/Tetra images RF)

As the seasons change, it's understandable that you might start worrying about how your energy bills will be affected. The past two years have seen energy bills rocket over the winter, but this year energy price caps will be finally dropping across the UK.

From October 1st, the average household is expected to pay less for its energy bills as prices fall by £151 per year. Ofgem's next price cap will drop from £2,074 to £1,923. This will cap the amount people pay per kilowatt hour, or unit, of gas and electricity, rather than the overall amount you will pay for energy. However, prices still remain higher than they were previously.

Before the price cap change, one energy expert says there is one thing you need to do before October 1st to get the cheapest energy bill possible - particularly if you don't have a smart meter. A smart meter automatically send meter readings to your supplier, meaning they can bill you accurately for the energy you've used. But if you don't have one, then you need to update your energy supplier more often.

"It's important that those without a smart meter take a meter reading. This is when the energy price cap change comes into effect and this will result in your bills changing", according to Les Roberts, energy comparison expert at Bionic. "With the change in the energy cap, it's vital that those without smart meters follow steps to unlock lower bills."

By submitting a reading before the price cap change, you should be charged the correct amount for exactly how much energy you are using, meaning you know exactly how much you owe and won't be overcharged. It will put money back into your pocket.

Shop prices 'are yet to peak and will remain high' as inflation hits new heights

"Submitting meter readings is a good habit to get into, and submitting them monthly ensures that your bills are correct, regardless of which tariff you are on", explains Les. "Ultimately, the price you pay is determined by how much the energy supplier thinks you are using, so letting them know stops any random guesses and ensures you only pay for what you use," he told Huffington Post.

If what is on your bills doesn't reflect your meter readings, flag it with your supplier. If they don't correct this based on your evidence, you can refer your case to the Energy Ombudsman who will work to resolve the complaint between you and your supplier.

Have you done your meter reading yet? Let us know in the comments...

Bryony Gooch