Standard variable tariffs are some of the most pricey deals on the market. Currently, the difference between the average standard tariff and the cheapest deal on the market was around £170, according to Uswitch. These default tariffs are what suppliers place you on when your fixed contract runs out or you do not specify which deal you wish to be placed on. Around 53 per cent of households are left stuck on these tariffs, according to Ofgem, meaning there are millions of homes who could save by switching. The plan will be usually be a 'variable rate' which means your unit rate costs can go up or down at any time. These plans are also the first to be affected when the energy companies announce an energy price rise.