What is a Dual Fuel Tariff and Is It Worth It?
Most UK households get their gas and electricity from the same supplier on a dual fuel tariff — but is it actually the best option? Here’s everything you need to know.
In this guide
What is a dual fuel tariff?
A dual fuel tariff is an energy deal where you get both your gas and electricity from the same supplier under a single contract. Instead of having two separate suppliers — one for gas and one for electricity — you have one supplier managing both fuels and sending you one combined bill.
Dual fuel is the most common arrangement for UK households. Most people who haven’t specifically chosen to split their supply will already be on a dual fuel tariff.
💡 Quick check
Look at your energy bills — if you receive one combined bill showing both gas and electricity charges from the same supplier you are on a dual fuel tariff. If you receive two separate bills from different suppliers you are on single fuel tariffs.
How does dual fuel work?
With a dual fuel tariff your energy supplier provides both your gas and electricity under one account. You receive one monthly direct debit and one bill covering both fuels.
Your gas and electricity are still delivered through completely separate networks — the gas pipes and electricity cables remain independent regardless of who supplies them. Only the billing and account management is combined.
When comparing dual fuel tariffs the price will be quoted as a combined annual cost for both fuels — for example £1,400 per year — based on typical household usage of 2,700 kWh of electricity and 11,500 kWh of gas.
Advantages of dual fuel
One bill and one account
Managing one supplier is simpler than two. One direct debit, one online account, one customer service number if something goes wrong.
Potential dual fuel discount
Some suppliers offer a small discount for taking both fuels together. This has become less common but is still available from some providers.
Easier switching
Switching both fuels at once is more straightforward than managing two separate switches with two different suppliers.
Easier to compare
A single combined annual cost makes it easier to compare deals and understand your total energy spend at a glance.
Disadvantages of dual fuel
May not always be the cheapest
The cheapest gas supplier and cheapest electricity supplier are not always the same company. Splitting your supply between two specialists can sometimes work out cheaper overall.
Less flexibility
You’re tied to one supplier for both fuels. If you want to switch to a specialist green electricity provider for example you’d need to also move your gas or manage two suppliers.
Dual fuel discounts have shrunk
The discounts for taking dual fuel used to be more significant. Today they are smaller and in many cases non-existent — so the convenience benefit is the main reason to go dual fuel.
Is dual fuel worth it?
For most UK households yes — dual fuel is the most convenient and practical option. Managing one supplier is simpler, the bills are easier to understand and switching is more straightforward.
The question of whether dual fuel is cheaper than splitting your supply depends on the market at any given time. Occasionally you can save money by taking gas from one supplier and electricity from another — but the saving is rarely large enough to justify the added complexity of managing two accounts.
Choose dual fuel if:
✓ You want simplicity
✓ You prefer one bill
✓ The dual fuel deal is competitive
Consider splitting if:
✓ Single fuel deals are significantly cheaper
✓ You want a specialist green tariff
✓ You’re comfortable managing two accounts
Compare dual fuel deals for your postcode
See the best dual fuel tariffs available in your area. Free, no obligation.
Compare energy deals →Dual fuel vs single fuel tariffs
Here’s a quick comparison of dual fuel versus managing your gas and electricity separately:
How to find the best dual fuel deal
The best way to find the cheapest dual fuel tariff for your household is to compare using your postcode and monthly spend. Our comparison tool shows you combined annual costs for dual fuel deals so you can see exactly what you’d pay.
When comparing dual fuel deals look at the total annual cost — not just the unit rate. The standing charges for both fuels add up and can make a significant difference to your total bill.
Related guides
Fixed vs variable energy tariffs explained → What is a standing charge? → How to switch energy supplier UK 2026 →Find the best dual fuel deal for your home
Compare dual fuel tariffs for your postcode. Free, no obligation, takes 2 minutes.
Compare energy deals →Written by the FastSwitch team · Last updated April 2026
FastSwitch is a free UK energy comparison service. We may earn a commission when you switch via our site — this never affects the deals or prices you see.
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