Liverpool

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Utilities

Information on accessing essential utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and waste management.

Sections

1. Electricity and Gas

Electricity and gas are essential utilities in Liverpool, and they are typically provided by private companies. Most households in the UK use a dual-fuel tariff, where electricity and gas are supplied by the same provider, but you can also choose separate providers for each.

Key Service Providers

Some of the major electricity and gas providers in Liverpool include:

  • British Gas
  • EDF Energy
  • E.ON Next
  • Octopus Energy
  • Scottish Power
  • Shell Energy
  • Bulb (now part of Octopus Energy)

Average Costs

  • Electricity: ยฃ0.30โ€“ยฃ0.35 per kWh (kilowatt-hour) as of 2023.
  • Gas: ยฃ0.07โ€“ยฃ0.10 per kWh.
  • Monthly Bills: Combined electricity and gas bills typically range from ยฃ100โ€“ยฃ200 per month for an average household, depending on usage and the size of the property.

How to Set Up Electricity and Gas

  1. Check Existing Supply: When moving into a new property, find out who the current supplier is. This information is usually provided by the landlord, letting agent, or previous tenant. Alternatively, you can contact the Meter Point Administration Service (MPAS) for electricity or the Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) Helpline for gas.
  2. Take Meter Readings: On the day you move in, take a photo of the electricity and gas meters to avoid being charged for previous usage.
  3. Choose a Provider: Compare tariffs using websites like Uswitch, Compare the Market, or MoneySuperMarket to find the best deal.
  4. Contact the Provider: Call or sign up online with your chosen provider. Youโ€™ll need to provide:
    • Your address.
    • Meter readings.
    • Bank details for direct debit payments (the most common payment method).
  5. Set Up a Payment Plan: Most providers offer monthly direct debit plans, which are often cheaper than paying quarterly.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Smart Meters: Many providers offer free installation of smart meters, which help you monitor your energy usage in real time.
  • Energy Efficiency: Liverpoolโ€™s older housing stock can be less energy-efficient. Consider insulating your home or using energy-saving appliances to reduce costs.
  • Warm Home Discount: If youโ€™re on a low income, check if you qualify for the governmentโ€™s Warm Home Discount Scheme, which provides a discount on your electricity bill.

2. Water

Water services in Liverpool are managed by United Utilities, which is the sole provider for the North West of England.

Average Costs

  • Water bills in Liverpool are typically ยฃ30โ€“ยฃ40 per month for an average household.
  • Bills are either metered (based on usage) or unmetered (a fixed rate based on the propertyโ€™s size and value).

How to Set Up Water Services

  1. Contact United Utilities: When you move in, call United Utilities or register online to set up your account.
  2. Metered vs. Unmetered: If your property doesnโ€™t have a water meter, you can request one to potentially save money if you use less water.
  3. Payment Options:
    • Monthly or quarterly direct debit.
    • Online payments via the United Utilities website.
    • PayPoint locations for cash payments.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Water Hardness: Liverpool has soft water, which is less likely to cause limescale buildup in appliances.
  • Leakage: Report any leaks to United Utilities immediately, as they are responsible for repairs up to your property boundary.

3. Internet and Broadband

Liverpool has excellent broadband coverage, with a variety of providers offering high-speed internet services.

Key Service Providers

  • BT
  • Virgin Media
  • Sky
  • TalkTalk
  • Plusnet
  • Hyperoptic (available in some areas for ultrafast broadband)
  • Vodafone

Average Costs

  • Standard Broadband: ยฃ20โ€“ยฃ30 per month (average speeds of 10โ€“30 Mbps).
  • Fibre Broadband: ยฃ30โ€“ยฃ50 per month (average speeds of 50โ€“300 Mbps).
  • Ultrafast Broadband: ยฃ50+ per month (speeds of 500 Mbps or more).

How to Set Up Internet

  1. Check Availability: Use websites like Uswitch or Broadband Choices to check which providers and speeds are available at your address.
  2. Choose a Package: Decide on a package based on your needs (e.g., speed, data limits, and whether you want a TV bundle).
  3. Sign Up: Contact the provider to set up your account. Youโ€™ll need:
    • Your address.
    • Bank details for direct debit.
  4. Installation: Some providers may require an engineer visit to install a router or set up the connection. This is usually free or included in the package.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Student Deals: If youโ€™re a student, many providers offer short-term contracts or discounts.
  • Mobile Broadband: If youโ€™re in temporary accommodation, consider mobile broadband or a pay-as-you-go dongle.

4. Waste Collection and Recycling

While not a utility in the traditional sense, waste collection is an essential public service in Liverpool.

Service Provider

  • Waste collection is managed by Liverpool City Council.

How It Works

  • General Waste: Collected weekly or fortnightly, depending on your area.
  • Recycling: Separate bins are provided for recyclable materials (e.g., paper, plastic, glass).
  • Garden Waste: A separate collection service is available for an additional fee.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Check your collection schedule on the Liverpool City Council website.
  • Use the councilโ€™s bulky waste collection service for large items like furniture.

5. Payment Methods for Utilities

  • Direct Debit: The most common and convenient method. Many providers offer discounts for paying this way.
  • Online Payments: Most providers have online portals or apps for bill payments.
  • PayPoint: You can pay bills in cash at local shops displaying the PayPoint logo.
  • Prepayment Meters: Some properties have prepayment meters for electricity and gas. Youโ€™ll need to top up at a PayPoint or online.

6. Practical Tips for Managing Utilities

  • Budgeting: Use budgeting apps like Monzo or Emma to track your utility expenses.
  • Energy Comparison: Review your energy tariffs annually to ensure youโ€™re on the best deal.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Electricity: Call 105 for power cuts.
    • Gas: Call the National Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999 for gas leaks.
    • Water: Contact United Utilities for water supply issues.

7. Cultural and Practical Advice

  • Energy Usage Awareness: The UK has a strong focus on energy efficiency. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use to save money.
  • Recycling: Liverpool residents are encouraged to recycle as much as possible. Familiarize yourself with the local recycling guidelines.
  • Customer Service: Utility providers in the UK generally have good customer service. Donโ€™t hesitate to call them if you have questions or issues.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Liverpool. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!