In regions where natural gas has been deregulated, consumers have the choice to receive their natural gas service from retail marketers. Deregulation provided competition, which drives down natural gas prices and allows consumers to choose a marketer based on the best value, namely in customer service, at the best price.
There are a few things you should consider before you select a natural gas marketer:
Customer Service Reputation
Consumers should feel confident that they are signing with a natural gas marketer who will meet their expectations for quality customer service. If you personally want to test a marketer’s customer service performance, call its call center a few times to ask questions and take note of how long it takes for you to speak to a customer service representative. Were the representatives you spoke to helpful and pleasant? Talk to family and friends who are customers of this natural gas marketer and ask about their experiences. Go online and check whether there are any complaints about the marketer.
Price comparisons
The best way to determine whether you’re getting the best value for your natural gas is to make an apple-to-apple comparison on costs. Understand the marketer’s pricing options before you choose a specific plan. A fixed rate will remain the same monthly rate over the term of your contract, often 12 months. A variable rate may change each month, depending on the natural gas market, and this may allow you to wait until rates are low and lock into a fixed rate plan at that time. Fixed rate plans may include an early termination fee if you were to cancel the contract before it expires, so it’s important to understand what you’re agreeing to when you sign with a natural gas marketer. Some may offer discounts or other special offers. Some offer discounts for senior citizens.
Contract Terms and Conditions
As mentioned earlier, it’s important to fully understand what you’re signing up for when you agree to a contract with a natural gas marketer. Some require deposits, based on your credit history or utility payment history. They may allow you to pay it in installments. Find out about any disconnect or reconnect fees, which can vary. If you are unhappy with the natural gas marketer and want to shop for a better deal, will you have to pay a termination fee or any other switching fees? If so, what is their switch request policy? Could they reject your request and would they notify you if they had? If you’ve already changed marketers but may want to continue to change based on natural gas costs, find out how often you are allowed to make the switch.
Some natural gas marketers offer other services that are convenient and may be helpful to you, including online bill payment and a budget payment plan. These types of services, other than the actual sale of natural gas, can sometimes be the deciding factor between natural gas marketers who offer similar pricing and packages.
