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Expert reveals six common mistakes as energy bills rise

As the latest energy price cap rise took effect from July 1, Sarah Ingrams, consumer champion from Which, identified six common pitfalls that often lead to household overpayment for gas and electricity.
Fixed tariffs typically last 18 months or two years, but forgetting when they expire often leaves customers on standard variable rates; suppliers must notify customers 49 days before these deals end.
Failing to submit regular meter readings can lead to inaccurate billing, especially for those without smart meters; Ingrams suggests submitting monthly readings, as any marked as 'E' or 'estimate' means something isn't working correctly.
Ofgem recently lowered 'average' usage figures, making some price comparisons look artificially cheaper; Ingrams noted that supplier incentives like boiler cover are 'not always worth your money or attention.'
Although around 92 per cent of households are supplied by major firms like British Gas, Octopus Energy, or Scottish Power, Ingrams advised that choosing a smaller supplier could result in better customer care.

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