, , , ,

SIM-Only Plans: Everything you Need to Know

new sims explained blog ft image

New to SIM-only plans?

Switching to a SIM-only deal for the first time can seem daunting – but it could also be a smart, savvy, and exciting move for you.

Not everyone needs the latest handset with an eye-wateringly priced contract.

In fact, most people don’t.

This is why we help sign up countless customers to a new SIM-only deal every day. If you’re happy with your current mobile device, it could be perfect for you too.

Read on to learn everything else you need to know.

What is a SIM-only deal?

A SIM-only deal does exactly what it says on the tin.

Rather than sticking with a long term, £30+ monthly contract to pay off the cost of a new device, you’re only paying for your usage.

Your usage includes texts, minutes, and data – not the handset itself.

Once you picked a suitable plan, you’ll receive a SIM card, which is a small and removable card you can put straight into your current mobile to activate it and connect you to the network.

A lot of people don’t realise when they’re out of contract, so they often end up overpaying for months when they already own the phone outright and could switch to a SIM for no-brainer savings!

Benefits to consider

Our experts have explained all the benefits of getting a SIM-only plan below.

  • Money savings. As you’ll have guessed it, SIM-only plans are considerably cheaper than handset contracts. Our SIM-only deals start from just £5 per month, whereas the average contract is at least £30 per month.
  • Personalised usage. Not only will your bill be cheaper, but you’ll find that SIM-plans can be a lot more generous too. In a few quick clicks, we’ll help you find a deal that gives you all the minutes, texts and data you need.
  • Freedom and flexibility. A lot of networks will offer you 30-day rolling contracts, Pay -as-you-go, or short term SIM-only plans. Given that the average contract length is 24 months, a short-term SIM would be perfect if you don’t want to be tied down. What’s more, a lot of deals give you the freedom to change or end your plan whenever you want – as long as you give a bit of notice.
  • Travel-ready. If you’re going abroad, a SIM-only plan gives you the freedom to use minutes and data internationally, without it costing you a fortune.

Are there any disadvantages of a SIM-only plan?

The only resounding difference between a contract and a SIM-only plan is that you don’t get a new mobile included with your deal. This means you’ve got to own a device beforehand, which might not suit every customer.

Networks may also be less likely to throw in freebies and perks with a SIM-only plan, due to their competitively low prices.

However, if you’re looking to save up money (perhaps for a new device?), a SIM-only plan helps you do just that, without any long-term commitments.

How do I set up a SIM card?

Once you have your new SIM card, you’ll need to activate it.

This typically involves calling your carrier or visiting their website to input your SIM card information and set up your account. Make sure you have your phone’s IMEI number handy, as well as any other information your carrier requires to activate your account.

Once your account is set up and your SIM card is activated, your new phone is ready to go!

If you’re switching carriers, you may need to transfer your contacts and other data from your old phone to your new one. This can be done using a cloud service or through a USB cable.

Regardless of what deal you choose; our experts will guide you through the whole switching process and explain everything you need to know.

Will a SIM-only plan affect my credit score?

Unlike a pay monthly mobile contract, signing up for a SIM-only doesn’t involve a credit check.

Making regular-timed payments every month for your SIM deal helps you to build a positive payment history, which will boost your credit score over time.

This makes a SIM-only deal more attractive if you’ve had issues with your credit rating in the past and want to build it back up.

What is an eSIM?

eSIMs are still a fairly modern invention, but they’re set to take off in the near future. Rather than having a separate SIM card to put into your phone, your phone will have one prebuilt into the device.

When switching network carriers, eSIMs can be reprogrammed with ease, making them a popular choice for users with multiple phone numbers with one device.

Find your new SIM-only plan in seconds

Switching to a SIM-only plan is simple when you do it through our experts.

You tell us a few quick details, and we’ll find you a new plan that’s guaranteed to save you money.

You’ll never go without usage and you’ll notice you’re saving more money every month from the get-go.

If you like the sound of that, we suggest you take the plunge and switch to a SIM-only deal today!

Still not sure if SIM-only is right for you?

Read our blog explaining four key reasons why a SIM-only plan might suit you.

/by
, , , , ,

Review your waste disposal plan now

mini bins ft image for waste disposal blog

Every business generates some kind of waste

Where would we all be without our bins?

In a state of calamity, that’s for sure!

It’s predicted that businesses across the UK generate a total of 44 million tonnes of waste every year.

With the right disposal system in place, you can ensure that you’re fully compliant with environmental regulations and keep your workplace safe and clean.

As a side note, you could save a lot more money too!

What does waste disposal mean?

Business waste disposal is the process of removing and disposing of waste generated by businesses. This includes materials such as paper, plastics, and hazardous waste.

Proper disposal is essential for environmental responsibility and compliance with regulations.

Waste management companies provide specialized services to collect and dispose of various types of waste.

As a business owner, you likely know that waste disposal is an essential part of your operations – regardless of your company size or industry!

However, not all waste disposal deals are created equal, and shopping around can help you find the best option for your business.

Here’s why you should be taking your businesses waste disposal needs seriously and see if you could be on a better deal.

How have prices changed recently?

Commercial waste disposal costs in the UK have been increasing in recent years.

The cost of landfill tax has been rising annually, which has resulted in higher prices for businesses to dispose of their waste.

Additionally, due to changes in China’s import policies on waste, the UK has seen an increase in demand for domestic waste management services, leading to increased costs.

Some businesses have responded by investing in waste reduction strategies or seeking out more affordable disposal options.

It’s always helpful to see how you can increase recycling practices across your workplace too.

You can always do more for the environment, and it comes with reputational and cost saving benefits.

Quick tips to help your business recycle more:

  • Implement a recycling program: Set up recycling bins in common areas and provide clear instructions on what can and cannot be recycled. Make it easy for employees to recycle by placing bins in convenient locations
  • Conduct a waste audit: Conduct an assessment of the waste generated by your business to identify areas where you can reduce and recycle more
  • Use recycled products: Use recycled paper products, such as paper towels, napkins, and printer paper
  • Reduce packaging waste: Encourage suppliers to use minimal packaging and consider purchasing products in bulk to reduce packaging waste
  • Donate or reuse materials: Donate items that are still in good condition to charities or reuse them in-house. This can include furniture, electronics, and office supplies
  • Provide employee education and incentives: Educate employees on the importance of recycling and provide incentives for those who consistently recycle and reduce waste.

By implementing these simple steps, businesses can increase their recycling efforts and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.

Why you should switch waste collectors

Our experts have explained the top benefits of shopping around for waste disposal deals.

By shop around, we simply mean not just sticking with the first deal you find.

When you use our service, you don’t have to shop around – we do it for you!

The main reasons why our business customers switch plans:

  • Cost savings. One of the main reasons to switch waste disposal deals is to save money. Different waste management companies charge different rates for their services, and by shopping around, you can compare prices and find the best deal for your budget. Moreover, some providers offer discounts for long-term contracts or for businesses that generate a significant amount of waste.
  • Customized service. Ever felt like your bins aren’t emptied enough? We can find you an arrangement that is tailored to your specific business needs. For example, if your business generates hazardous waste, you’ll need a provider that specializes in handling these materials. Likewise, if your company generates a lot of organic waste, you may benefit from a composting service. By finding a provider that can meet your unique needs, you can ensure that your waste is disposed of responsibly.
  • Environmental responsibility. Ethical environmental practices are becoming increasingly important for businesses, as consumers and stakeholders demand sustainable practices. By comparing waste disposal partners, you can find a brand that prioritizes sustainability and offers eco-friendly solutions. For example, do you currently recycle enough or could you have more bins?
  • Compliance with regulations. Proper waste disposal is not only essential for environmental responsibility, but also for ensuring your compliance with regulations. Depending on the type of waste your business generates, you may be subject to laws that dictate how you must handle, store, and transport your waste. By finding a reputable waste disposal provider, you can ensure that your business complies with all applicable regulations, avoiding costly fines and legal issues.
  • Reputation and customer service. Finally, shopping around ensures that YOU receive the best service too. With our help, you can rest assured that you’ve picked a disposal company with a stellar reputation and reliable customer service. Good customer service can make a significant difference to your waste disposal experience, giving you flexibility and peace of mind that your bins will always be emptied on time, and issues are promptly resolved.

In conclusion, if you want to find a cheap, customised, and fully compliant waste disposal service, you should do your research beforehand.

Or, like we previously mentioned, let us do it for you!

What makes a good bin & waste disposal partner?

The top three qualities our business customers look for in their waste management partner are:

  • Outstanding environmental practices
  • A tailored, reliable and regular service
  • Fixed, low monthly prices.

With over 40 waste disposal suppliers to pick from across the UK, we understand it can quickly become overwhelming.

There’s no need to fret when our experts can find a deal for you!

We look at plans from leading commercial waste management providers nationwide and tailor deals to your exact needs/ bin preferences.

Ready to find your new waste disposal partner?

By letting us help you find the right provider, you can streamline your waste management operations and focus on growing your business.

If you’re still a fairly new brand, it’s definitely in your best interests to compare with expert help.

There are regulations to meet and daily requirements you want to get right – plus it’s entirely free to discuss with our team!

Start searching waste disposal deals in a click today.

/by
, , ,

The Pros and Cons of Fibre Broadband

fibre wires on laptop fibre broadband ft image for blog

Key points to know about fibre broadband

Fibre broadband is the next-generation broadband technology, changing the way we connect to the internet.

That said, it’s still not a completely perfect solution for everyone.

Read on to see our expert deep-dive into all the pro’s and con’s of fibre broadband.

We’ve explained all the drawbacks and positives below.

What is fibre broadband?

It provides high-speed internet access through a fibre-optic network, which uses light to transmit data.

This technology is far superior to traditional internet connections that uses copper wires, as it can offer speeds of up to 1Gbps, making it one of the fastest and most reliable forms of broadband available.

Instead of copper wires, fibre infrastructure uses thin plastic or glass strands.

Most suppliers nowadays also offer fibre broadband only deals, meaning you don’t need your landline bundled in anymore either!

See what makes fibre so revolutionary below:

The undeniable pro’s of fibre broadband

Here are some reasons to switch from ADSL to fibre broadband:

  1. Speed: Fibre broadband offers much faster speeds than ADSL, with speeds of up to 1Gbps, making it ideal for homes and businesses that require fast and reliable internet access. This is especially important for activities that require a lot of bandwidth, such as online gaming, streaming high-definition video, and downloading large files.
  2. Reliability: Fibre broadband is more reliable than ADSL, as the fibre-optic network is not affected by interference from other devices and provides a stable connection without any dropouts or interruptions. This makes it ideal for businesses that need a dependable internet connection for critical operations.
  3. Security: Fibre broadband is more secure than ADSL, as the fibre-optic network is much harder to tap into, making it more difficult for hackers to steal sensitive information. This is especially important for businesses, which are often required to protect sensitive data.
  4. Environmental friendliness: Did you know that fibre broadband is more environmentally friendly than ADSL? Fibre-optic cables are made of glass, which is a renewable resource, and do not emit harmful electromagnetic fields like traditional broadband cables. 70% less energy is needed to transmit the same amount of data though a fibre cable, in comparison to a standard copper wire. Using less energy means less heat is generated, meaning that equipment doesn’t need to be kept cool. This drastically reduces the network’s carbon emissions.
  5. Future-proof technology: Fibre-broadband is the next-generation broadband technology, and is the future of internet connectivity. By switching to fibre, you can ensure that your home or business has access to the latest technology and will be able to keep pace with future demands for high-speed internet.
  6. With its high speeds, reliability, and the dedicated and consistent connection (instead of battling for bandwidth with other users during peak hours), you can understand how fibre appeals to busy homes and heavy internet users.

With this in mind, it’s important to know the cons of fibre broadband.

The drawbacks of fibre broadband

While fibre broadband offers many benefits, there are also some negatives to consider:

  1. Cost: Fibre broadband can be more expensive than traditional broadband, especially for consumers who live in areas where fibre-optic networks have not yet been widely rolled out. The cost of installation and the cost of the service itself can be a barrier for some consumers.
  2. Availability: Not all areas have access to fibre yet, especially rural and remote areas. This can leave some consumers with limited options for high-speed internet access.
  3. Complex installation: The installation of fibre broadband can be complex and time-consuming, and may require excavation and disruption to existing infrastructure. This can be a barrier for some consumers, especially those who live in urban areas where space is limited.
  4. Limited service providers: In areas where fibre broadband is available, consumers may only have access to a limited number of service providers. This can result in less competition and higher prices.
  5. Technical difficulties: While fibre broadband is generally more reliable than traditional broadband, there can still be technical difficulties with the fibre-optic network, such as power cuts or network issues, which can result in disruptions to your connection.

Our expert conclusion

Fibre broadband is the future of internet connectivity.

It’s the perfect choice for homes and businesses that require fast, stable and secure internet access.

So, if you want to stay ahead of the curve and enjoy the benefits of the latest technology, you should look into fibre deals near you.

Ready to make the switch?

If you are looking to upgrade your internet connection, we’ll help you find a low priced deal today.

Fibre broadband isn’t as expensive as it once was, and we’ve compiled deals from a wide range of suppliers.

Don’t get lost in competitors and endless quotes – search fibre offers in your area now.

/by
, , , ,

4 Reasons to Get A SIM Card

SIM plans ft image

Is a SIM plan right for you?

Unlike smartphone contracts that come with a brand-new handset, a SIM-only plan refers solely to your mobile usage. 

If you’re happy with your current mobile handset, and also looking to cut your monthly expenses, a SIM-only plan could be exactly what you need. 

Our experts have covered the main benefits below to help you decide.

1. Money Saving

Compared to smartphone contracts, SIM-only plans can be ridiculously cheap. Especially when you consider the eye-watering monthly cost for the newest smartphone on the market, which could be up to a shocking £90.

For example, one of the specialist suppliers we work with, Neatley, offer a completely unlimited SIM deal for just £24.95 per month.

Compare this to the average contract bill of £50+, you’re guaranteed to save money. Switch today and you’ll soon see the savings add up.  

2. Good Credit Building – Even if you Don’t Have it

When you apply for a mobile contract, your credit rating is checked.

Having a poor credit rating means you’re likely to struggle in finding a mobile network to accept you. This is because a mobile contract works similarly to a credit agreement, with monthly payments planned to cover the cost of the handset itself.

SIM-only plans are a much lower risk to the network, so the requirements for signing up are a lot laxer.

Say you have bad credit at the moment, then getting a SIM plan will actually help you improve your score – especially if you choose a 12-month or more deal. 

Paying your SIM plan price every month helps to strengthen your rating, as you’re proving to the network that you’re a financially responsible customer. 

By the end of your SIM plan, you should have built up a fairly respectable credit score for yourself – AND saved money for your next handset!

3. Business Benefits

Business owners – you could benefit from a SIM deal too.

It’s a cheap way to keep your professional and personal life separate, such as using a second mobile number for clients to call. SIM plans are also incredibly flexible and can grow with your business as and when it needs to.

We’ve compared mobile networks offering specialist plans to small business owners. 

4. Flexibility

Aside from the low price, the biggest benefit of SIM plans is undoubtedly the flexibility they give you.

Rather than being tied down to an expensive contract for 2 years or more, SIM plans can be tailored. No one can predict where life will take them in that time, so a SIM plan could offer you peace of mind.

You also get the freedom of choosing which mobile network to go with, despite which network you originally took your phone out with. 

There’s also the complete control over your usage. Regardless of what’s most important to you (be it data, texts, 5G access etc), we’ll find you a fair-priced plan that meets all your needs.

Besides, unlimited mobile data is a lot cheaper nowadays! 

Find a new SIM-only deal

Happy with your device but not the usage allowance?

Nearing the end of your contract and looking to cut costs?

These are perfect examples of situations in which it would be wise to get a SIM.

We’ve already compared mobile providers for you. Get started with a few clicks and find your new deal today.

Could you save on your broadband bills next?

Search the latest broadband offers.

/by
, , ,

Why VoIP is the Future

voip landline ft image

VoIP is the future of the telephone

You’ll likely have heard all about the national landline switch off by now.

Don’t get left behind – you’ve only got two years to prepare!

With the right VoIP solution, you can revolutionise and streamline the way you work.

Is VoIP right for my business?

Regardless of your industry, you’ll find that there’s a lot of ways in which the right VoIP system supports your productivity.

As with all business suppliers, it’s important that you compare before you buy – especially if you’re new to VoIP.

Noisy office environment? Make high quality conference calls to remote staff.

Want to re-route customer calls? Create a seamless self-service phone option. We’ve got deals from every VoIP supplier in one place, so you can find a new deal with ease. Speak to our experts for professional advice today.

Small business? VoIP could be an asset to you too

Don’t overlook VoIP – it’s not just for big teams or large businesses!

In fact, recent research finds that more than one-third of all businesses now use a VoIP phone system.

The vast majority of those being businesses have less than 50 employees, proving you don’t need to be a large brand to access the best tech.

What is VoIP and how does it work?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is internet-based phone system.

Instead of transmitting voice conversations over copper phone lines, you make calls through the internet.

Although it might sound technical, it’s simpler than you realise – and not too dissimilar to Skype.

If you have internet, you’re already halfway there!

Not only will VoIP replace your traditional business landline, but you can also make calls from your laptop, mobile or other smart devices.

All of this happens instantaneously.

Benefits of VoIP

There are several reasons why more businesses are switching to VoIP phone systems, which don’t necessarily revolve around cost.

Call quality

VoIP calls don’t use a lot of bandwidth, which means you get to enjoy clear and crisp audio quality. As long as you have stable internet, your calls will be higher quality than landline.

Simple installation

In addition to better sound quality, the cloud is also making VoIP a more viable option for small businesses.

Rather than having to install special equipment or wiring, companies can simply choose a cloud-hosted VoIP phone solution. This means you don’t need to buy any more equipment or employ IT staff to maintain it.

Ease of use

VoIP systems are very user-friendly. You also get a dedicated level of customer service from your supplier, in the rare event of any downtime.

Flexibility

Depending on your needs, you can scale up or down with ease.

This is especially true if you choose a cloud-based solution, which is easy to tailor and grows with your business. Say you hire new employees and need more phone lines – it can easily be arranged with your supplier!

Remote connectivity

One of the biggest advantages of VoIP is that it allows you to collaborate seamlessly with remote staff. Your team can take their business phone line anywhere they go, meaning higher rates of productivity.

You can also stay in close contact with your customers on the go by having business calls re-routed to your personal mobile.

Cost benefits

Cost is another reason businesses are making the switch from landline.

VoIP technology can also be relatively low cost, making it ideal for small businesses – but you still need to research before you commit!

Most VoIP providers charge a monthly fee per-user, making it a lot cheaper to maintain than old-school landline systems.

Add-ons

VoIP plans are highly customisable. It’s crucial you compare and research beforehand to make sure you pick a deal with the right features for your business.

These include conference calls, call logging and routing, customer insight, call recording, a virtual receptionist and many more.

You can even integrate VoIP systems with other business services, like email.

We can also find you a solution to disguise your personal mobile number for professional use – so you can still work on the go.

Ready to find a VoIP deal?

We’ve got every VoIP plan from every supplier in one place.

The package you choose will significantly impact price, features and installation – all of which we can help you consider.

Compare VoIP suppliers for free.

/by
, ,

The Cost of Going Cashless

cost of cashless ft image

Is it time to go cashless?

As a small business owner, one way to engage more customers is by having a range of cashless ways to pay.

The slight drawback is card payment fees you then accumulate.

We’ve explained below everything you need to know about making your business cashless, including what sort of charges to expect.

What do I get charged per transaction?

With each card payment, you can expect to pay 1.5 – 3.5% of the sale. This depends on what type of card your customer uses, or whether they use a card at all (mobile payments).

Credit cards tend to cost more than debit cards – and cardless payments cost even more.

On top of this, transaction fees will be around 1-3% of each sale.

There are also authorisation fees, which take between 1 – 3p per sale.

Amex transaction fees can be up to a whopping 4% – which makes it understandable why a lot of small business owners refuse them.

Finally, merchant service charges can be around 0.25% to 0.35%.

These are just the fees associated with each sale – there’s still a few more prices you face!

Extra charges to know about

Card machines cost around £30 – £80 upfront and the set up should be just under £100.

On a monthly basis, you will pay up to around £30 a month for service fees and merchant account fees (however, these monthly fees depend on your provider and also the total money made from transactions).

Last but most certainly not least is the PCI compliance fee, which will never be more than £5 a month – but you must never go without unless your supplier pre-pays.

Can I save or cut back?

The provider you’re with has a huge impact on price, so you’ll need to compare and find the best for your business. Examples of providers to choose from include WorldPay, Zettle, Square, PayPal and Barclaycard Anywhere.

Comparison really is crucial, given how wildly prices can vary. You’ll find that a lot of providers offer special discounts for small businesses.

It’s also important you investigate hidden fees, like chargebacks and refunds (which can cost up to a £1 a go!).

Is it worth the fees?

Having a cashless payment option is absolutely essential.

Mobile and contactless payments are only on the rise, so you want to appeal to every audience.

A staggering 57% of all payments made last year across the UK were on cards, and 32% were contactless.

Making your business a cashless site also has a lot of safety and efficiency benefits.

Ready to save more money?

We search deals with leading business suppliers across the UK.

Ranging from broadband and VoIP, to water and one-bill solutions, we can help you save money on various monthly costs.

Speak to our experts today or start searching for yourself.

/by
, , ,

Always check your broadband end date

never forget about bb end date ft image

Broadband contract ending soon? Lucky you

Receiving that end date notification means you’ve got a chance to save more money.

What’s more – it doesn’t take half as much time or effort as you might think either.

Given how the cost-of-living crisis has affected us all, it’s never been more crucial to compare and switch.

We see a lot of customers being pleasantly surprised at how much they could save on their broadband.

Despite this, it’s often overlooked – and for reasons that surprise us.

Did you know you could save nearly £200 a year by switching your ISP?

What about auto-renewal?

Unfortunately, loyalty doesn’t help you save money!

Although it became law in 2020 for energy suppliers for notify customers when their end date is due, this doesn’t mean you don’t have to act on it.

In most cases, you’ll continue your current plan – but not necessarily for the same price.

Say you chose your current 12/18/24 month contract because of its low monthly price, this will only be for a limited time.

Despite Ofcom making it law to notify customers, a lot of people are still facing an unpleasant surprise when their fixed term ends.

Why don’t more people switch?

We see a lot of customers reluctant to switch, either out of misguided loyalty or because switching seems like a lot of hassle.

According to a recent Which survey, 43% of people say they stay put because they’re happy with the service. This is fair enough, but is it worth paying more for? Fibre is more widespread and affordable than ever before, so you might find a new supplier makes you even happier!

37% are afraid they’ll lose their current email address. These days, losing your email is unlikely – but it’s quick and easy to set up a separate one.

32% say they fear the whole process is “too much hassle”.

We’re here to compare and switch for you, so you get to enjoy a seamless change over.

A bit of bargain hunting pays off – especially when you do it with our experts.

Switching is easier than you think

A lot of broadband networks now share the same infrastructure, making a switch over quick and easy. It’s highly unlikely that you’ll be left without an internet connection during your switch, even if you’re upgrading from ADSL to fibre.

Generally, you’ll never be waiting longer than 2 weeks for the transition to be complete – and this for the most complex switches.

Saving doesn’t mean downgrading!

More properties are eligible for fibre than ever before. In fact, 95% of properties can now access superfast Wi-Fi – but a lot of homeowners don’t know this!

If it’s been a while since you last changed deals, you’ll be surprised at how many suppliers have upgraded their service. Because fibre is readily available, prices are competitive – making it all the more crucial to compare.

Find the best deal today

Once you’ve given us your postcode, we scour the web to find every available deal in your area.

We handpick deals from a range of suppliers (including bundles and 4G routers).

Plus, you’ve got our friendly, impartial advisors to help guide you through the process too!

Search for your new broadband deal in a few clicks.

With the help of our experts and our free tool, you can also find your next mobile deal with us too.

/by
, ,

11 Million Homes Now Connected to Fibre

11 million homes connected to fibre

Repost from Digital TV Europe.

Are you living in a newly-upgraded full fibre area?

Some 11 million UK homes now have access to fibre broadband, up from seven million a year ago, according to regulator Ofcom’s Connected Nations autumn update.

According to the report, 37% of households can now get full fibre, capable of delivering download speeds of up to 1 Gbps.

This is an increase from 24% a year ago, when just under seven million homes were covered.

The number of properties unable to get a broadband speed greater than 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload has meanwhile fallen by 38% since last year to 83,000.

The number of homes able to get gigabit capable broadband is now almost 20.2 million homes or 68% of all UK homes, up from 19.3 million or 66% at the time of Ofcom’s last update.

Full fibre coverage now reaches 37% of homes, up from 33% in the four months between January 2022 and May 2022, an increase of four percentage points, with just over 11 million homes now covered. Superfast broadband coverage across the UK stands at 96%, with Northern Ireland, the leading region both for full fibre (83% coverage) and gigabit broadband coverage (85%) saw an increase of a percentage point in superfast coverage.

The number of premises unable to get decent broadband, when factoring in fixed wireless and fixed line, has dropped from 99,500 to 83,000 premises since Ofcom’s Spring update.

However, those unable to achieve decent broadband over a fixed line has increased from 506,000 to 513,000 over the same period.

Could you be eligible for fibre?

You can find out for free.

We’ve compared broadband deals from every ISP across the UK.

Tailor results today – all we need is your postcode to find you your next dream broadband plan!

/by
, , , ,

Business Water Bills Explained

Business Water Bills

Our Rundown of Business Water Bills

The cost of business water can quickly add up when you’re misinformed.

However, all businesses need running water.

In fact, research from Energy Costcutters shows that 67% of businesses across the UK and Scotland have been overcharged on their business water bills.

Here’s what you need to know.

It’s key to note that your business water bill varies depending on your area and your local utility company charges.

Consequently, there are over 20 different licensed water suppliers for UK businesses, but their charges are regulated and fortunately, predictable.

So how does it all work?

In simple terms, your bill is split up by the water coming and coming out of your business premises.

These are known as Water charges, and Wastewater charges.

Water charges

This cost relates to the supply of fresh water coming into your business premises and depends on how much water you and your team use.

Wastewater charges

These charges are for the removal of used water going out of your business premises into the local sewer system.

Being connected to the sewer system means that these charges apply to you.

Do you have a water meter?

You should submit your meter reading at least once a year (if not more), to avoid being charged for an estimated consumption.

Your bill will be an ‘estimated’, ‘read’ or ‘actual’ consumption.

The two charges your bill will be made up of are:

  • A fixed charge. Based on the type of water meter you have, and this covers both the readings and water meter maintenance.
  • A variable charge. Based on your overall business water usage.

No meter?

In this case, you’ll be paying a fixed price.

You’ll also be paying a charge relatable to the valuable of your business premises.

A lot of our customers find using a water meter offers more accurate and better-priced bills.

If you’re a small business, you’ll likely find that your water bill is similar to that of a household.

Large business owners should look for an alternative tariff better suited to high demand.

Our advice on reducing your business water bill

  1. Encourage all staff to get on board with saving water. Run fun competitions, ask for creative tips and urge staff to report any leaks
  2. Invest in efficiency. Geysers and water-efficient taps (or automatic taps) are worth buying to help you save in the long run. Dual-flush toilets are also a valuable investment.
  3. Leave notes around the office. Dishwasher in the breakroom? Leave a sign instructing staff to only turn it on when it’s full
  4. Get a water meter installed.

Looking to save more on your other business bills?

We compare business broadband, VoIP and mobile suppliers in one place.

It’s our mission to upgrade you whilst also saving you money.

Join countless other business owners in saving thousands today.

/by
, , ,

Apple Users – Do You Need the iPhone 14?

Apple iPhones

It’s that time of year again – where a new iPhone hits the market.

Meet the iPhone 14 Pro, plus its slightly larger countermodel, the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

So you don’t have to, our Experts have already explored the main differences between the iPhone 14 and the iPhone 13.

First impressions

The 14 Pro is the same size and shape as the 13, featuring a 6.1-inch OLED screen and a stainless-steel edge.

However, even when the phone is locked, you’ll notice one key difference – an always-on display. Even on standby, you’ll see a dimmed version of your lock screen (useful for checking the time).

We’ve explained the other key changes below.

iOS 16

A new lock screen and features!

Every device runs on IOS 16, giving it a fresh and modern user experience.

The software even comes with a new revolutionary car-crash detection app, designed to sense the force of a collision and alert emergency services.

Speaking of this new update, it hit the headlines recently.

Its effectiveness (or rather, sensitivity) was noted by one American user, after their mobile identified a roller coaster as a high-impact car crash – mistakenly alerting the police to a theme park!

Imagine getting off a coaster and finding out your phone has called for help!

Battery and charging

Fit with the A16 Bionic chip, it’s 10x faster than previous models.

When it comes to battery life however, the 14 Pro isn’t too dissimilar to the 13. It offers 75 hours of audio playback and 23 hours of video.

The iPhone 14 Pro Plus is the new champion though, with 95 hours of audio and 29 hours of video playback available on full charge.

“Dynamic island”

You know that rectangular notch at the top of your iPhone screen? It’s now 31% smaller and interactive.

Just by clicking and expanding the notch, you can skip songs, stop timers, or open notifications.

Fondly called “Dynamic Island” by Apple, we can see why!

The main event – an impressive camera

Expect crisp and defined landscapes.

The new camera is what makes the 14 Pro that bit heavier than the 13 – and it’s worth it.

It features a 48-megapixel sensor and a slightly wider shot, plus a whole new image-processing technique called the Photonic Engine.

This Photonic Engine is particularly important for taking high-quality images in darker conditions.

The price

Our least favourite part.

Currently, the iPhone 14 Pro can be bought outright for £849.

The 14 Pro Max comes in at an even steeper £949.

Contracts are priced from around £39 per month, but you need to compare to find the best deal.

This way, you won’t get caught out by a hefty upfront fee or a ridiculously long contract.

Our conclusion

There’s no denying that the iPhone 14 Pro/Plus are impressive new phones, but this is certainly reflected in the price tag.

The iPhone 13 is also still an impressive phone – and now it’s more likely to drop in price.

However, we’re all trying to battle price rises right now, so you might not be interested in a super-luxurious mobile if it’s not necessary.

For now, you might be better investing in a new SIM deal to help save up for an upgrade

/by