E.ON urges customers to check timers as clocks go back on Sunday
E.ON urges timer checks as clocks go back Sunday

E.ON is calling on customers to make a quick check this weekend to avoid missing out on potential savings as the clocks go back on Sunday, October 25. While phones and laptops usually update automatically, some appliance clocks and plug timers may not.

Why the clock change matters for time-of-use tariffs

E.ON Next is encouraging customers on time-of-use tariffs to check any timers used for washing machines, dishwashers, water heating, EV charging or other suitable appliances. If appliances are set to start at a certain time, the clock change could mean the usual schedule now misses the cheapest super off-peak window (2am–5am) or falls into the peak period (4pm-7pm).

Next Smart Saver offers lower-priced electricity from 5am to 4pm and from 7pm to 2am, with its lowest-priced super off-peak period from 2am to 5am. Because of the clock change, Next Smart Saver customers will benefit from an extra hour of off-peak electricity, enjoying 22 hours of off-peak or super off-peak electricity this Sunday.

Advice from E.ON Next's Chief Commercial Officer

Julian Lennertz, Chief Commercial Officer at E.ON Next, said: "When the clocks go back, it’s worth checking more than the clock on the oven. If you’re on a time-of-use tariff and charge your EV or use appliances or smart-plug timers, make sure they still start when you expect them to."

He added: "Small changes to when you use electricity can make a difference. Our Next Smart Saver customers have collectively saved £3.2 million by moving electricity use away from peak times, and its daytime and evening off-peak periods give households flexibility to make changes that work for them."

Five checks for time-of-use customers

E.ON Next is sharing five easy checks for time-of-use customers to make when the clocks go back:

  • Check what changes automatically – While phones and computers often change automatically, some appliance or plug timers might not.
  • Remind yourself of your tariff hours – Off-peak periods differ between tariffs, so confirm the times that apply to yours.
  • Reset timers where needed – If the schedule on any appliance timers or smart plugs now falls out of your intended off-peak window, update them so you don’t miss out on savings.
  • Use convenient off-peak periods – If you don’t already, run washing machines and dishwashers during off-peak hours in the day or evening – rather than staying up late to save.
  • Review your energy use – Track your usage patterns to identify other practical activities you could move away from peak hours as the colder weather approaches.

Next Smart Saver is available as a one-year or two-year tariff. It offers lower-priced electricity outside the 4pm to 7pm peak period, including a super off-peak period from 2am to 5am.

Savings will vary depending on your home and tariff. Always follow manufacturer guidance and consider what’s practical and safe for your household. Customers need a working smart meter and must meet the eligibility criteria. Terms and conditions apply. To find out more about E.ON Next’s time-of-use tariff, head to eonnext.com/tariffs/next-smart-saver.