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SIM-Only Plans: Everything you Need to Know

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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.

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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.

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The Pros and Cons of Fibre Broadband

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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.

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4 Reasons to Get A SIM Card

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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.

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The Cost of Going Cashless

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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.

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Always check your broadband end date

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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.

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How Switching Water Suppliers Can Save Your Business Money

Business Water Bills

Repost from MoneyExpert.

Could you be overpaying on business water?

Since April 2017, the business water market in England was deregulated, fully opening up to competition.

From then on, businesses have been able to choose which company they want to buy their retail water services from.

This includes a variety of services, like billing, account management, meter reading and water efficiency advice.

Ofwat closely monitor and regulate the market to protect business customers, for example by setting limits on the price that customers pay if they don’t switch or renegotiate a new deal.

How does the business water market work?

The market works much like other open utility markers, like for gas and electricity. Retail suppliers buy wholesale services, such as the physical supply of water or the removal of wastewater. They then offer packages to sell to their business customers.

Who are the market’s key players?

  • Retail suppliers – these suppliers compete for your custom.
  • Wholesalers – the companies which own and operate the network of water pipes, mains and treatment works. They sell water and wastewater services to the retail suppliers.
  • Open Water – this is the government’s programme which aims to open the new business retail market. Open Water is led by three organisations – Ofwat, Defra and MOSL. The programme shares information about the market with business customers.
  • Defra – the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
  • Ofwat – they are the economic regulatory body for the water sector. They are also the market’s licensing authority. In order to offer water services to customers, suppliers must first be awarded a license by Ofwat.
  • MOSL – the Market Operator, who makes sure that the market functions simply and efficiently. They facilitate the transfer of customer information when said customer switches retail supplier.
  • WICS – the Water Industry Commission for Scotland is responsible for regulating the water market in Scotland.

Changing water supplier – what are the benefits?

Switching to a new water supplier comes with a host of benefits for your business. For example:

  • You can request consolidated and electronic billing, making your water bill easier to pay back. What’s more, you can ask for more frequent bills, allowing you to monitor more closely your business’ water usage.
  • You can also obtain consumption and billing data to whatever standard you would prefer, including online self-service.
  • You may also receive better customer service, as you would have the choice of competing your supply, rather than receiving customer service just from your local supplier.
  • You could save money by choosing a more cost-effective supplier.
  • If you have multiple sites in different areas, you could streamline your bills by choosing one supplier for all sites.

How to switch

The process of switching water suppliers is easy and simple, so it’s well worth doing if you want to take advantage of all of the benefits that come with it.

  1. Find the right supplier for your business: Write down everything that you’re looking for in a water supplier, from good customer service to getting help with water efficiency. You should then look through Open Water’s online catalogue of providers to find one that meets all your requirements.
  2. Get a quote: when you’ve found your ideal supplier, make sure their price is also ideal for your business. Have your Supply Point Identification (SPID) number on hand. You can find this on your latest water bill.
  3. Sign up: sign an agreement with your new supplier. Normally, they will contact your current supplier to let them know that you’re moving. When switching supplier, you will need the following essential information on hand:
    • Your organisation’s name
    • Your business’ address, including postcode
    • Your annual water consumption
    • Contact name at the premises
    • Contact phone number for your premises
    • Desirable but not essential is your unique property reference number, demand profile and annual spend

How to increase your business’ water efficiency

Water is a precious and finite source – less than 3% of earth’s water is fresh, and only 0.3% is readily accessible. In the UK, businesses account for 25% of water usage, so it’s important that every business is conscious of how much they’re using.

Benefits of water efficiency

  • Saving water can cut down your energy bill, as the two are closely linked. For example, when you run a tap, energy is used to pump the water.
  • You can save other resources too. It takes five litres of water to run a lightbulb or one plastic bottle. Reducing your business’ water consumption can therefore help you save in other areas.
  • The less water you use, the bigger savings you will see on your bill. Even the smallest changes can have a tangible impact.

Understanding your current water usage

Before you can come up with a plan to become more water efficient, you need to understand your current consumption. This can help you to understand how and where water is being used on your premises, allowing you to target key areas.

  • Take a meter reading: take these readings frequently over one month, at the beginning and end of each day.
  • Look at your previous bills: if you notice that your consumption varies a lot without there being any obvious reason for this, then leaking of faulty equipment might be the culprit, or your bill might be inaccurate. If this is the case, then further water audit or an investigation may be required.

Implementing water saving devices

Taps:

  • Automatic taps: these can save you up to 70% compared to manual taps. This is because a lot of water is wasted when a tap is turned off and on manually. With an automatic sensor, it takes 0.5 seconds to turn a tap off and on. These taps also remove the problem of drips.
  • Spray taps: these can also save you up to 70%. With spray taps, water is forced through small hole filters, creating a spray. This decreases the amount of water that runs through your taps.

Toilets:

  • Dropping cistern water: this is often done by placing a brick in the cistern and can save up to 5,000 litres of water per year.
  • Dual flush technology: this can save up to 70% of water.
  • Passive infrared sensor: this can save up to 75% of water involved in flushing urinals.

Other things to think about:

  • Banning bottled water: by replacing bottled water with water fountains, you can reduce your water costs by as much as 50%
  • Rainwater storage tanks: you can save money by capturing and recycling rainwater. We get plenty of it in the UK, so why not exploit it? Storage tanks range in size, so you can get the right one to suit your business premises.

 

Ready to save on your business bills?

We search offers with your best interests in mind.

Browse the latest business water deals in seconds and see how much you could save.

Deals are found instantly and always tailored to your business and budget.

Whether you’re looking to save on VoIP, card payments, or more, we can help you find a better deal today.

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Business Owner? Here’s What the Energy Relief Scheme Means

Energy business bills

Re-posted from Edit.net.

Could you see a reduction in your business energy bills?

Government measures to combat spiralling energy costs across non-domestic sectors have now come into force, with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) confirming that businesses could see costs slashed by more than half for the next six months.

“Halve the costs of electricity for businesses”

The former Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg unveiled the Energy Bill Relief Scheme back in September, in a bid to more than halve the projected costs of electricity and gas for businesses, charities and public sector organisations.

Equivalent to support through the Energy Price Guarantee, it provides a discount on wholesale gas and electricity prices for all eligible non-domestic customers who were facing soaring energy costs.

How will the new pricing work?

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) claims that the Government has introduced a new support price of £211 per MWh for electricity, compared to a projected price of £600 per MWh and  £75 per MWh for gas compared to a projected winter price of £180 per MWh.

The new pricing, which will be applied in pence per kilowatt hour (p/kWh), is available to all non-domestic energy contracts, including businesses, voluntary sector organisations, such as charities and public sector organisations such as schools, hospitals and care homes.

Have you already noticed some cost savings?

The changes were due to come into effect on 1 October, but savings applied to October bills are usually received in November, so businesses will now be able to receive the benefits.

BEIS has confirmed that the scheme will run for an initial six months.

Business and Energy Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Seeing the savings from our energy support in bills will give businesses across the country peace of mind at a time when they are facing increased pressure.

“By shielding them from a massive increase in energy costs we’re protecting jobs and livelihoods, just as we did throughout the pandemic – ensuring UK businesses do not fall at the hands of Putin.”

The Government is reviewing what will happen to the scheme after April 2023, and will target support for businesses most affected by high energy prices. BEIS has also issued new guidance on the scheme.

Many green economy representatives have asked why the relief scheme has not been paired with other measures, like a new national home insulation scheme.

Others have urged politicians to couple plans for dealing with the cost-of-living crisis with plans for climate action.

Ready to reduce your other bills?

We’ve compared business broadband, VoIP, water bills, and mobile suppliers in one place.

Regardless of your industry, or business size, we bet we could save you some money.

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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.

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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

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