Confused.com urges householders to check before cashing-in

Research released this week, has revealed that almost six million householders are in credit to their gas suppliers and people should consider reclaiming their cash.

Gareth Kloet, energy expert at Confused.com, urges customers to think twice: "Many householders, who pay by direct debit, may find that they are in credit with their energy suppliers around this time of year. While it may seem attractive to ask for this money back, we would advise people to hold off and speak to their supplier about their levels of energy consumption first.

"In calculating customers' monthly direct debit payments, suppliers will simply divide annual consumption by twelve. It is therefore no surprise that so many households will see a surplus of cash on their statements now.

"In many circumstances, this build-up will see consumers through the winter, when their consumption increases. Therefore before asking for a refund, it is recommended that customers have a chat with their supplier and provide an up-to-date meter reading. The supplier will then be able to check if their customer is paying the right amount and make any adjustments, which in some circumstances may result in a refund.

"Yet, given the recent price increases, it is just as likely that the amount that consumers are paying is right and, in some circumstances, may actually need to be increased further if their monthly payments are simply not high enough to get them through the winter months.

"In addition, Confused.com suggests that customers shop around regularly to ensure that they are on the right tariff, as they change frequently. If the customer chooses to switch supplier when they already know that they are in credit, it means that they:
can reconfirm their annual spend and savings achievable, based on the information they provide to an Energywatch accredited price comparison website

Happily bank the credit in the knowledge that they have shopped around for the best deal, unlike the millions of UK households that have yet to make savings."