FAQ:

Is your service free ?

Yes, we are paid a finders fee by the supplier who wins your business even though the price is often lower than going direct due to our buying power.

I ordered previously but havent heard how my order is progressing ?

Please contact the supplier directly for an update as we have limited or no access to your application after initial sale to protect your privacy. In the unlikely event they can find no record please contact us again and we will try and trace it for you. Do remember though it normally takes 4-6 weeks to switch.

Do I need to terminate my existing contract ?

Normally yes, you have to give notice to your current supplier anything up to 120 days prior to your renewal date to avoid being 'locked in' to another term with your current supplier at the price they decide ( see your contract terms and conditions).

How long are the prices online valid for ?

They can change at anytime so we recommend you order as soon as possible even though your start date can be up to 90 days in the future.

Is the price fixed for the duration of the contract ?

Yes, unless stated otherwise ( for instance in the case of the Utility Warehouse ) the price you see is the price you pay.

Am I signing a deal with you or the actual Supplier ?

You will be signing an application with your chosen supplier and they will bill you direct in the normal way. We are just a price comparison service.

The offer I want says 'payment by Direct Debit' but I want to pay by cheque ?

Unless stated online thats the only method of payment the supplier offers. Sometimes we can get you cheque payment options but your rates will be about 3-5% more expensive.

What does the electricity S number tell you ?

This number is unique to your meter and tells us the type of tariff and meter you have and where its located in the country, we need it to give you accurate prices and to transfer your supply.

Is the S Number the same as the MPAN number ?

Yes, MPAN stands for Meter Point Administration Number but its one and the same thing as your 'S' or SUPPLY number.

Where would I find my gas MPR number ?

Legally it has to be printed on your gas bill somewhere ( though it wont necessarily appear on your 'annual statement'. Its typically 7 to 10 digits long and stands for Meter Point Reference number.

What does the 'multi brand' logo mean on your gas results ?

It means that your order will be placed with one of our major brand suppliers that week. We'll confirm which brand when we send your application to you.

Who is The Utility Warehouse ?

The Utility Warehouse Discount Club was launched in 2004. Operated by Telecom plus PLC, a London Stock market listed successful company. They use the collective buying power of lots of individual small users to negotiate bulk buying deals with major suppliers, passing the benefit back to customers. 

I have more than 1 meter or site, how do I price them ?

You can enter each meter separately into our website for prices. Alternatively just email a spreadsheet list to thepowerswitch@btconnect.com or fax a copy bill to 0845 280 1360 and we'll return prices to you.

My current contract doesn't finish until ... can I order a deal now ?

Most of our suppliers will only accept an application up to 90 days before your renewal date. You can still send your current supplier a notice letter now and this will free you up to switch if you wish or stay with them nearer the time.

How long does it take to switch supplier ?

Normally around 4-6 weeks so best to order earlier to avoid 'out of contract' charges from your current supplier.

What do the stars on the results page mean ?

It shows how that supplier is rated by customers, click on the stars with your mouse for an explanation.

What if I sell my business before the end of the contract ?

You give your supplier a final meter reading and they will send you a final bill.

If my business moves, does the contract move with me ?

No you will need to find a new deal for your new premises.

Is a 'unit' the same as a Kilowatt hour on my bill ?

On an electricity bill YES, confusingly though GAS units are often multiplied by a formula to produce your Kilowatt hour (kwh) figure so be careful when looking at your gas bills.

What happens to the price if I use less or more energy than I expect ?

For most customers the amount you use will not affect your prices (see your contract terms and conditions)

I cant see any standing charges on the offer, is there any ?

No, the price you see is the price you'll pay.

I have a single rate electric meter but would like to order your day and night rate, can i do this?

No, you need to ask your existing supplier to change your meter and/or tariff and issue you with a new Supply number that reflects this change. Once you have the new S number you can use this to get new prices on our website and switch.

We don't have any bills yet, how do we find out who supplies us or what our S and MPR numbers are ?

To get your S Number and who supplies your premises call your LOCAL electricity company ( see Yellow Pages ) and ask for their Meter Point Administration ( MPAS) department. For gas call the M Number Enquiry Line on 0870 608 1524.

Will I be cut off while I wait for my supply to switch ?

No its only a paperwork exercise, your supply is never interrupted.

Do I need to change my meter, wires or pipes ?

No its only a paperwork exercise, nothing changes mechanically.