How to Cut Down What You Spend on Cable TV
Do you think you’re paying way too much compared to what your cable TV provider offers in your plan? You aren’t the only one. Many consumers feel they are overpaying for TV services. But what most of them don’t know is that there are several ways to shave small amounts off your monthly bill. Over the course of a year, this can help you save significantly on your cable TV service bills for the period. But of course, these steps don’t involve anything illegal. They simply require a better understanding of what you require from a cable plan and what your provider offers you. Read on to find out more.
Save on Cable Bills With These Simple Steps
As cable TV services have evolved and expanded over the last few years, they have penetrated most of the US market. Companies often offer very competitive deals, such as the unbeatable Spectrum cable prices, in an attempt to acquire more customers in a fiercely competitive industry. However, too many customers remain unaware that there are easy ways to cut down on the money you spend on your cable bills. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Get A Plan Based On Your Needs
- Keep an Eye On What Your Plan Includes
- Return Unnecessary Equipment to Your Provider
- Invest in Your Own Cable Modem
- Watch Out For Premium Promotions
- Ask For A Discount
- See How Other Providers In Your Area Compare
Let’s take a quick look at each step and how it can help you save some of your hard-earned money.
Get a Plan Based on Your Needs
You may be tempted to subscribe to the plan that carries the most channels. This is a surefire way to sign up for something you don’t really need. Out of a massive channel lineup, there are likely only going to be a handful of options that receive your regular attention. If you’re the only person living in your home, you may not even need certain content like cartoons or family programming. The first step to saving money is to get a plan that covers what you need and keep the extras to a minimum. Ask your provider for a list of available plans and the content they include. Then subscribe to the lowest-priced plan that covers the majority of your entertainment needs.
Keep an Eye on What Your Plan Includes
The cable plan you signed up for today may not necessarily have the same channel lineup a few months down the road. Cable TV providers often change channel lineups based on market demand and availability. That means you need to keep a close eye on your plan’s channel lineup, watching out for any channels that you don’t need. Your cable provider reserves the right to vary channel lineups, but you can always request a free downgrade to a more suitable plan within 30 days of a channel being removed or added.
Return Unnecessary Equipment to Your Provider
Your TV plan likely comes with some equipment like the set-top box as well as a DVR to help your record content you enjoy. However, most TV users rarely end up using the DVR at all. Unfortunately, as long as it is in your possession, you have to pay a rental for the DVR. It doesn’t matter if you’re using it or not. If your DVR is largely unused, you should consider returning it to your employer and saving on the monthly equipment rental fees.
Invest in Your Own Cable Modem
Another way to avoid pesky equipment rentals is to invest in your own equipment. It may be pricier as a one-off expenditure than the rental, but you only have to invest in equipment once. A cable modem that is compatible with your provider and service can help you get rid of rented equipment and save significantly.
Watch Out for Premium Promotions
Every now and then, providers offer attractive cable TV promotions. Many of these include limited-time free access to premium networks like HBO, Showtime, and Starz. Of course, high-quality content will be a big attraction. But before you know it, the promotion will end and you’ll be billed for the premium networks now added to your plan. If you plan on buying into such a promotion, make it clear to your provider that you want the premium networks removed at the end of the promotion. This will help you dodge a hefty bill-shaped bullet.
Ask for a Discount
The “ask and ye shall receive” principle works in real life as well as it does in religious scripture. Sometimes the easiest way to negotiate a lower bill is to simply ask your provider for a discount. In certain cases, you may even be eligible for free or reduced-cost internet. This is especially true when your provider has specific income requirements and other criteria that you may qualify for. You’ll never know if you don’t ask.
See How Other Providers in Your Area Compare
If nothing else works, you may be left with the option of switching to another provider with a better offer. Unless you’re in a remote area, the chances are excellent that more than one cable provider services your area. Do your homework on what these providers are offering, paying special attention to similar plans and their prices. This will help you get an idea of where your current provider’s price stands in comparison to theirs.
Armed with this information, you can most likely negotiate a better deal for yourself with your current provider. If that doesn’t work, you can always switch services. For example, if you live in New York, just call the Spectrum NYC number and sign up for a great service at a great price right away. Don’t stay stuck in a plan that costs more and offers less than other comparable plans.
