You might be paying too much if your rates are above the price cap, you're using more than a similar home, or your bill is based on estimates. Five checks will tell you.
Checked 8 October 2026Written by the MyBillChecker team
Five checks
Compare your rates with the price cap. Find your unit rate and standing charge on your bill. If you're on a standard variable tariff, they should match the cap for your region and payment method. From 1 October to 31 December 2026, the GB average cap for direct debit is 26.32p per kWh and 54.83p a day for electricity, and 7.97p per kWh and 29.68p a day for gas (Ofgem). Rates in your region may differ.
Check your fixed deal's end date. When it ends, you usually move to a standard tariff, which may cost more.
Compare your use with a typical home. Ofgem's typical home uses about 2,700 kWh of electricity and 11,500 kWh of gas a year. Much more could mean an estimate problem, a faulty meter or simply a bigger, colder home.
Look for "E" readings. Estimates can push your bill up until a real reading corrects it.
Check your direct debit. If you've built up a large credit, you can ask for it back.
Frequently asked questions
What's an average energy bill?
It depends on your region, payment method and use. Ofgem publishes a typical annual bill each time the cap changes. For 1 October to 31 December 2026 it is £1,723 a year for a typical household paying by direct debit (<a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/your-energy-supply/your-energy-bill/energy-price-cap-unit-rates-and-standing-charges">Ofgem</a>).
Is a fixed tariff always cheaper?
No. Compare its rates with the cap and check for exit fees.
