Switching TV provider

You might decide that your current provider just doesn’t have the channels or features you want, or that you are not happy with their service. Check out other service providers in your area and compare their prices and service. You can compare what services are available in your area, and what the costs are, on www.uchoose.ie

Remember, when you are choosing a provider your options will be limited to the services available in your area and the type of home you have. For example, if you live in an apartment block you may not be allowed put up your own satellite dish, or you may only be able to use one cable provider.

What to do

Switching is easy. Simply contact the new provider you want to get your TV from and ask to have an account opened. You can also sign up to most TV service providers online.

You will also need to inform your old provider that you are closing your account with them. Remember to check any contract you have with your old provider, as there may be pentalties if you leave the contract early.

Your new provider may have a number of payment options available, so choose which option suits you best. If you have already paid you previous TV service provider in advance, ask your new provider if they can recoup any of that payment and put it towards their bills.

Saving money on TV

Change your package

If you are paying a subscription for channels that you rarely watch, think about whether it is worth the money. Compare the different packages from your current provider and see if there is a simpler package at a better price which might still suit you.

Change your provider

You might decide that your current provider just doesn’t have the channels or features you want, or that you are not happy with their service. Check out other service providers in your area and compare their prices and service. www.uchoose.ie compares the main TV service providers for you. Remember, when you are choosing a provider your options will be limited to the services available in your area, and the type of home you have. For example, if you live in an apartment block you may not be allowed put up your own satellite dish, or you may only be able to use one cable provider.

Change to “Free-to-air” or Saorview

If you have a subscription service and feel you are not getting value from it, consider getting a free-to-air satellite dish and/or a Saorview set-top box. Free-to-air satellites will let you watch some satellite channels from Europe and the UK, and Saorview gives you free digital Irish channels.

Change how you watch TV

If you only watch a few TV programmes and you need to watch them live, consider watching your programmes online instead. Many TV channels, including the Irish ones, now make their programmes available to watch online through their website or “player”. You don’t need a TV, a subscription or even a TV licence but you do need a PC and a broadband connection.

Remember, if you have a TV, you must also buy a TV licence.