Top five cheapest energy deals for September 2019

Autumn is just around the corner, which means darker evenings, cooler temperatures and higher energy bills. But don't wait until the cold weather sets in - choose one of these cheaper energy tariffs now, so you can start saving before winter.

Switching to this month's cheapest energy deal could save you a whopping £408 a year on your gas and electricity. You might be able to save this amount if you're currently on a standard or default tariff that charges the maximum amount permitted by the energy price cap.

What's more, all five of the cheapest energy deals this month have no exit fees so if something better turns up, you're free to switch.

Compare gas and electricity prices now using Which? Switch to find the best deal for you. You can also call us on 0800 410 1149 or 01259 220235.

Cheapest electricity and gas deals

Here are the five cheapest dual-fuel deals for this month, based on annual average prices for a household that uses a medium amount of gas and electricity.

We've listed the annual price and also how much you would save compared with the current price cap. The energy price cap is set at £1,254 on average per year for medium-usage customers on standard or default tariffs.

However, your exact spend depends on how much gas and electricity you use.

Fixed vs variable tariffs: what's the difference?

A fixed energy tariff means that the price per unit of gas and electricity won't change for the duration of your deal. A variable energy tariff means that the price can go up or down.

A fixed-rate tariff offers you the security of paying the same price for the units of energy you use each month. But it also means that if your energy supplier cuts its prices you won't benefit.

If you like to switch regularly, variable tariffs typically don't have exit fees, and your contract will be open ended. In contrast, fixed tariff deals normally last for 12 months or more, and exit fees are sometimes charged for switching early.

Don't know have a clue about energy deals? We've explained some of the most popular energy tariffs so you can start comparing today.

Five other ways you can cut your energy bills

• Use your thermostat effectively - reducing room temperatures by just 1u00baC can cut heating bills by up to £75 a year in a typical home, according to the Energy Saving Trust.
• Replace light bulbs - an LED light bulb costs around £1.56 to run per year. Over its lifetime, it could cut around £200 from your electricity bills, compared with an old-style bulb.
• Cut draughts - stopping heat from escaping through unwanted gaps could help you save up to £20 a year.
• Choose energy-efficient appliances - cut your electricity bills by choosing the most energy-efficient models when you need to replace them. For example, running costs for washing machines vary between £15 and £69 per year.
• Better insulate your home - insulating your loft and cavity walls could save you up to £275 a year, as less heat will escape your home and you won't need to use your central heating as often.

Read more ways to save on your gas and electricity.

Which? energy pricing research

Prices are based on a dual-fuel tariff available in all regions in England, Scotland and Wales paying by monthly direct debit, with paperless bills

Energy use is based on Ofgem's annual average figures for a medium user (12,000kWh gas and 3,100kWh electricity per year).

Data is from Energylinx. Price given are averages across regions, rounded to the nearest whole pound and correct on 3 September 2019.