What Are Business Water Suppliers?
Do you know who provides the water your business uses every day? Whether it’s washing, cleaning, or production, business water suppliers play a crucial role.
Unlike domestic water providers, business water suppliers offer services exclusively for non-domestic properties such as schools, offices, and farms. They deliver tailored solutions, from efficient billing to water-saving technologies.
Since 2017, the UK has had an open water market, meaning businesses in England can now choose their water supplier. This competition has made it easier for businesses to find better deals. However, the market is heavily regulated by Ofwat, the Water Services Regulation Authority, ensuring fairness, transparency, and quality service.
Switching to a suitable business water supplier can reduce costs and improve service, making it worth exploring your options.
Why Compare Business Water Suppliers?
Why should you bother comparing water suppliers when you could just stick with the default? Simple: it can save your business money and bring additional benefits.
Cutting Costs
Water bills can be a significant expense, particularly for industries that use large amounts of water. By comparing suppliers, businesses can save up to 20% annually on their water costs.
Better Service
Switching suppliers doesn’t just save money. Many companies offer improved customer service, faster response times, and user-friendly billing systems.
Water Efficiency Solutions
Some suppliers provide tools like smart water meters or water audits, helping you monitor consumption and identify areas to reduce waste.
For example, a restaurant could reduce waste by monitoring water used during peak hours and addressing inefficiencies. Comparing suppliers isn’t just about cost—it’s about finding the right fit for your needs.
How Business Water Rates Work
Understanding your water bill can seem complicated, but breaking it down makes it easier to spot savings.
Components of a Typical Water Bill
- Standing Charges: A daily fixed fee for maintaining the water supply and infrastructure.
- Volumetric Fees: Charges based on the amount of water your business consumes, measured in cubic metres.
- Surface Drainage: Fees for managing rainwater and wastewater from your property.
Here’s an example:
Charge Type | Description |
Standing Charge | Fixed daily maintenance fee |
Volumetric Fee | Per cubic metre of water used |
Surface Drainage | Charges for rainwater drainage |
Regional Variations
Water tariffs often vary by region. For example, a business in the south of England may face higher volumetric charges compared to one in the north due to infrastructure costs and water scarcity.
By understanding these components, businesses can identify where they’re overspending and take steps to lower their bills.
Benefits of Comparing Business Water Suppliers
Still wondering whether switching suppliers is worth the hassle? Here are some compelling reasons:
- Save Up to 20% Annually: For a business spending £5,000 annually on water, that’s up to £1,000 in savings.
- Consolidated Billing: Multi-site businesses can combine all water bills into one, simplifying payments.
- Access to Smart Water Meters: These devices help businesses track daily water usage, leading to better control and cost reduction.
For example, a manufacturing business could use a smart meter to identify when and where water is being wasted, allowing them to act quickly and save money.
Green Business Water Tariffs
In today’s world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. Many businesses are now opting for green water tariffs to reduce their environmental impact.
What Are Carbon-Neutral Water Tariffs?
These tariffs offset the carbon emissions from water use by investing in carbon credits or sustainability projects. For example:
- Funding reforestation projects.
- Supporting renewable energy initiatives.
Why Choose Green Tariffs?
- Enhance Corporate Responsibility: Show customers and partners that your business is serious about sustainability.
- Meet Regulatory Goals: With governments pushing for net-zero emissions, green tariffs help businesses comply with regulations.
Opting for a green water supplier is a small step with big implications for the planet—and your brand reputation.
How to Compare Business Water Suppliers
Switching to a better water supplier doesn’t have to be daunting. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Enter Your Business Postcode
Start by entering your postcode into a comparison website to see available suppliers in your area.
Step 2: Provide Your SPID Number and Usage Data
Your SPID number (Supply Point Identification Number) is found on your water bill. Combine this with details of your average water usage to get accurate quotes.
Step 3: Compare and Switch
Compare quotes based on price, services, and customer reviews. Once you’ve picked the best supplier, they’ll handle the switch for you, ensuring no service disruptions.
It’s a straightforward process that could lead to big savings for your business.
Best Business Water Suppliers in 2024
Looking for the top-rated water suppliers this year? Here are some to consider:
Everflow Water
Known for competitive prices and exceptional customer service. Everflow is especially popular with small to medium-sized businesses.
Castle Water
Offers tailored solutions for multi-site operations and sustainable water management.
Water Plus
Great for businesses prioritising customer service and advanced billing solutions.
Use platforms like Trustpilot to gauge customer reviews and find the supplier that best fits your needs.
Smart Water Meters and Efficiency Solutions
Smart water meters are becoming a must-have for businesses looking to optimise their water usage.
Benefits of Smart Meters:
- Accurate Billing: Eliminate estimates and pay only for what you use.
- Leak Detection: Identify leaks early to avoid expensive repairs.
- Daily Monitoring: Keep track of usage trends and reduce waste.
For example, a warehouse with a smart meter could spot unusual spikes in water usage, indicating a leak in the system. Fixing the issue could save thousands of pounds.
FAQs
What are business water suppliers?
Business water suppliers provide water services to non-domestic properties like offices, farms, and schools. They offer tailored tariffs, billing options, and efficiency solutions.
How can I save money on business water bills?
By comparing suppliers and switching to a better deal, you can save up to 20% annually.
What is a standing charge in a business water bill?
A standing charge is a fixed daily fee for maintaining the water supply infrastructure, regardless of usage.
What are green business water tariffs?
Green tariffs offset emissions through investments in carbon credits and sustainability projects, helping businesses reduce their environmental impact.