Get real with gas readings to claw back savings

After a winter of historically high gas prices, nearly one in three (29 per cent) UK households’ gas bills were based on outdated meter readings, according to research from moneysupermarket.com. The price comparison website is warning customers who reacted to surging gas prices by cutting back on consumption to ensure their supplier is aware of their real reading.

Paul Schofield, head of utilities at moneysupermarket.com, said: “Domestic gas prices reached astonishing heights last winter. Many households will have reduced gas usage to save money; either by turning the thermostat down a degree or two, reducing the time their heating is on or even putting on an extra jumper. But if you haven’t had your meter read or provided a reading yourself, you won’t see the savings you deserve.”

While gas suppliers do try to take frequent readings, many customers will miss out because they are not at home in the daytime. Instead, moneysupermarket.com urges these customers to take the straightforward route of providing a meter reading by phone.

Nearly two thirds (61 per cent) of those surveyed said they pay gas bills by monthly direct debit. Although this method is simple and convenient, it can lead to people paying less attention to bills and the consumption levels they are based on.

Schofield said: “Gas customers have suffered expensive bills for too long. A minute’s effort could help many of those on estimated readings claw some of this money back. If you still find your bills are too high, shop around to find the supplier with the best deal for your gas and electricity needs.”

moneysupermarket.com is making a stand to help people ditch their expensive power companies and get the cheapest energy deal by offering £30 cash-back to all customers swapping to a dual fuel tariff through its service. Those not going for a dual fuel tariff but changing a provider or tariff will benefit from a single £17.50 payment.