British Gas Pay-As-You-Go Meter: How It Works & Ways to Save

British Gas offers prepayment meters for those who wish to plan their energy usage ahead of time. These meters let you add credit with a gas card or an electricity key. You can recharge at PayPoint, Payzone, or directly through the British Gas app.

How British Gas Prepayment Meters Work

A prepayment meter requires customers to pay for their energy before they can use it. You can add credit by using a top-up card or an electricity key.

• PayPoint & Payzone – You can find these at stores near you.
• British Gas App – You can top up online using a debit card.
• Local Payzone – You can see where the closest one is on the British Gas website.

When you add credit, the energy supply will last until the credit is used up.

How to Top Up a British Gas Prepayment Meter

Tip: If you forget to add more money, you can use emergency credit to keep your energy supply running.

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Understanding Emergency Credit & Friendly Credit

If you run out of credit, British Gas can help you with emergency credit. This support makes sure that your electricity meter or gas meter does not turn off immediately.

Next time you add funds, we will first take away any emergency credit you have used.

British Gas Prepayment Tariffs vs Credit Meters

People who use prepayment often pay more in fees. Credit meters are the best option. They help you get lower rates and make payments automatically.

Pros & Cons of British Gas Prepayment Meters

Pros

• Helps with budgeting – No unexpected energy bills.
• No direct debit – Perfect for those who prefer pay-as-you-go.
• Smart energy monitor available – You can see usage in real time.

Cons

• Customers without direct debit may pay more for their unit rates and standing charges.
• You can run out of your energy supply if you do not add funds.
• People using medical equipment may face problems if their credit runs out.

Who Should Use a Prepayment Meter?

• Tenants & Landlords – Prepayment meters help tenants avoid having unpaid bills.
• Budget-conscious households – They help manage energy usage by paying for it in advance.
• Vulnerable customers – If you qualify, you may get extra support, including the Warm Home Discount.

Landlords can request to switch back to a credit meter when a new tenant moves in.

How to Switch from Prepayment to a Credit Meter

If you have a prepayment meter and you want to switch to a credit meter, here are the steps to follow:

1. Clear any existing debt – Make sure to pay off all unpaid balances.
2. Check if you qualify – British Gas may review your credit history.
3. Request a smart meter upgrade – This allows you to pay via direct debit.
4. Book an appointment – British Gas will come to install your new smart meter.

A credit meter may offer you lower prices and fees.

Switch & Save: Get a Better Energy Tariff with Free Price Compare

If you have a prepayment meter or a variable tariff, you may be paying too much for your energy supply. Switching to a fixed tariff or another energy supplier could help you reduce your energy bill. This change can provide you with stable prices.

Why Switch Your Energy Tariff?

• Lower energy costs – Fixed tariffs help you shield against price increases.
• Better payment options – Choose direct debit to get lower rates.
• No unexpected price hikes – Fixed-rate plans keep your prices stable.
• More control over your bills – A smart meter allows you to monitor energy usage.

How to Find the Best Energy Deal

1. Compare energy tariffs – Use Free Price Compare to find cheaper fixed-rate options.
2. Check standing charges & unit rates – Don’t just look at the tariff name; check all the cost details.
3. Avoid exit fees – If you switch from a fixed tariff, ensure there’s no exit fee first.
4. Look for extra benefits – Some tariffs offer perks like the Warm Home Discount or options for green energy.

A normal UK home can save around £250 every year by switching to a less expensive energy plan. Visit Free Price Compare now to see how much you could save!

FAQs About British Gas Prepayment Meters

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