 have made a world of difference to our customers’ day-to-day life. From improving your mobility to enhancing independence at home, they’re an investment that many will never regret. However, to ensure your stairlift remains on top form, maintenance and servicing shouldn’t be put on the back-burner. After all, proper upkeep can extend the life of your stairlift and ensure your safety. 

At SpotDif, we help you compare stairlift models and quotes to find the best option for your needs. To help you find the best stairlift for your needs, we've put together some expert tips on maintaining and servicing 

Some general stairlift maintenance tips to help you get started


Regular maintenance is key for all stairlifts — no matter which type you have. Here are a few pointers to carry out regularly

Seated stairlifts are probably the most popular and common stairlift type for our customers. They come with a padded chair that travels up and down a rail fixed to your staircase.


Perch seat stairlifts are an effective alternative if you find sitting uncomfortable, or you may find that you don’t have the flexibility needed to sit and stand on a seated stairlift. 

They’re especially great if you have limited knee flexibility, however, there are extra safety checks needed as you’ll be in more of a standing position when in motion.

If your home has quite a narrow staircase, you may find standing staircases are your best match. They’re also a good option if you struggle bending your knees at all. With this in mind, you’ll need to be confident that you have enough balance and strength to stay upright throughout the whole journey.


Many staircases in the UK have a curved or bent stair structure. Curved stairlifts are specifically customised for this kind of stair. They can be costly due to their customised nature, but are worth it due to their seamless travel experience.


Did you know that you can also get an outdoor stairlift installed in your home? This is a great option if you have green fingers or you enjoy your time outdoors. Due to them being more exposed to the elements, their maintenance and servicing routine can look a little different from indoor stairlift models.


Wheelchair stairlifts require specific care. They come with a few extra parts to help make the journey up or downstairs as smooth and safe as possible.


Maintaining these aspects will keep your platform stairlift safe and user-friendly. Regular checks and proper care ensure that it provides reliable and secure transport for wheelchair users.



Find your stairlift match at the best price with SpotDif


We hope these stairlift servicing and maintenance tips have helped you make the most of your stairlift. Remember — if there’s anything on your stairlift that you’re not sure about, it’s always worth contacting your manufacturer so they can take a better look for you to identify any issues. Who knows, it may even save you some time and money in the long-run!

Don’t forget — if you’re considering buying a new stairlift or need to compare the different models, we’re here to help. Visit our 

 today to help you get started with your search. 

Everything you need to know about stairlift maintenance and servicing. Find the best type of stairlift for your needs with SpotDif today.

Your guide to stairlift maintenance and servicing

If you're experiencing hearing aid feedback, the first thing for us to say is that you're not alone. It’s not because of your ears and it’s not because they’re rejecting your hearing aids — it’s simply a common and frustrating issue that many people experience. 

In very rare circumstances, you may find that you need the help of a professional to give your hearing aids a once-over, however, we’re pretty certain these tips can do the trick.

Like we’ve said, most cases of hearing aid feedback can easily be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps. No matter which 

 you have, we’ve got tips to help you get rid of that annoying feedback noise. 

Hearing aid feedback occurs when the sound from your hearing aid's speaker loops back into its microphone. This can then create the high-pitched whistling or squealing noise that’s taking over your day-to-day life!

Common causes of hearing aid feedback include:



If your hearing aid doesn't fit well, sound can escape through the gaps and re-enter into the microphone. An ill-fitting earmold or hearing aid can cause this, with the sound being picked up by the microphone again. 

Ensuring a snug and secure fit might help sort this.


Earwax can block the ear canal, which can cause the sound to bounce back into the hearing aid's microphone.


In some cases, you may find that being close to other electronic devices can increase the likelihood of static, buzzing, or feedback sounds. Hearing aids can pick up electromagnetic signals from nearby devices, especially those using similar frequencies. 


Thankfully, this one has a simple solution! Sometimes, if your hearing aid isn’t positioned properly, sound can leak out which results in feedback. 


While it may be tempting to turn your hearing aid’s volume up as high as possible, this can increase the chance of any sound looping back into the microphone. 


You may find that none of the above general issues help fix your hearing aid feedback. If this is the case, then it could unfortunately be a fault with your microphone or receiver. 


What does hearing aid feedback noise sound like?


Wondering if that strange noise you’re hearing is actually hearing aid feedback? Hearing aid feedback typically sounds like a high-pitched whistle or squeal. It can be constant or it could come and go. 


This noise can be quite disruptive, making it hard to concentrate or have a conversation. If this sounds familiar, then you’re likely dealing with hearing aid feedback.



Hearing aid feedback: Troubleshooting tips for different hearing aid types

We’ve explored some of the most common causes of hearing aid feedback and how to reduce the effect.  But what if the noise is specific to your type of hearing aid? Here’s what we’d do.

BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear with a tube that connects to an earmould inside the ear. To fix feedback in BTE hearing aids, we’d suggest:

ITE hearing aids fit entirely inside the outer ear. To stop feedback on your 


RIC hearing aids have the receiver (speaker) inside the ear canal. To reduce feedback, try these steps:

CIC hearing aids are small and fit deep inside the ear canal. To fix feedback, we’d suggest:



 are even smaller and sit deeper in the ear canal. To reduce feedback, try:




ITC hearing aids are slightly larger than CIC and IIC, fitting partly in the ear canal. To fix feedback, we’d suggest:

We know that a lot of our tips include hearing aid maintenance, so don’t forget to check out our advice on 

. We also have a full hearing aid guide, which includes an overview of the different 

When to seek professional help for hearing aid feedback noise

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips and still experience feedback, it’s probably time for you to seek professional help. 

Your chosen audiologist or hearing aid specialist can perform a thorough check-up to make sure the problem doesn’t arise again. We’d recommend doing this as they may even identify issues you might have missed and provide more specific solutions for your hearing needs.

Compare hearing aid quotes and suppliers with SpotDif

Don’t let hearing aid feedback disrupt your life. We know that it’s difficult to deal with, but we want you to know that there is a way to stop it in its tracks.

At SpotDif, our goal is to help you compare hearing aid quotes from top suppliers to find the best solution for your needs. 

 and take the first step towards better hearing — hopefully without any annoying feedback!

Tansy Dando

LinkedIn

Wealth and Business Writer

What’s making that annoying noise from your hearing aid? No matter which hearing aid model you have, here’s how to troubleshoot this common issue.

How to fix hearing aid feedback

Are you considering an upgrade to your heating system? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re currently using a gas boiler and want to make the switch away from fossil fuels or you’re hoping to swap out your electric boiler to reduce your reliance on the National Grid, a 


We’re here to help you understand why ground source heat pumps are a fantastic choice for your home.

Efficient, reliable, and perfect for the UK's climate, a ground source heat pump comes with an array of advantages. So let’s explore why a ground source heat pump might be the ideal investment for your home.



Recap: How do ground source heat pumps work?

Let’s quickly go over how ground source heat pumps work — it's simpler than you might think (and 

). These systems use pipes buried in your garden to draw heat from the ground, which then warms your home and provides hot water.


Here's a quick breakdown: the process involves ground loops, a heat pump unit, and a distribution system. 


This setup is super efficient and uses renewable energy right from your back garden. It's a great way to keep your home cosy while cutting down on energy bills and being kinder to the environment. Win-win!


Still wondering why you should consider installing a heat pump in the UK? Here are the top 10 benefits of a ground source heat pump.



Ground source heat pumps are incredibly efficient. They provide up to 4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity used, making them vastly more efficient than other types of home heating. 

This high efficiency is because they use the stable temperatures underground. By tapping into this natural heat, you get much more warmth for less energy. 

This means your home stays cosy without skyrocketing energy bills. It's a smart, eco-friendly choice that helps you save money while staying warm.




With this in mind, how much could you save on your energy bills with a ground source heat pump? 

Well, the exact amount will vary depending on your household’s energy usage, your location, and several other factors.

 suggests that switching from an old electric heating system to a ground source heat pump could save up to £1,700 per year. For homes switching from gas, the savings might be lower, around £400 per year — but still significant.

Over time, your ground source heat pump can lead to huge savings.


Ground source heat pumps are also great for the environment. They reduce carbon emissions by using renewable energy from the ground. Unlike traditional heating systems, they don't burn fossil fuels, which helps lower your home's carbon footprint. 

By choosing a ground source heat pump, you contribute to a greener planet, saving up to 

 (when compared with a coal-based heating system).  This choice supports sustainable living and helps fight climate change. It’s a win for both your home and the environment.


Ground source heat pumps provide stable heating all year round. Unlike air source heat pumps, they work efficiently even in the coldest weather. The temperature below the ground stays consistent, which means reliable warmth for your home.

You won't have to worry about your heating system struggling during winter. This consistency ensures your home remains comfortable, regardless of the weather outside

Ground source heat pumps are built to last. With proper maintenance, the heat pump unit can serve you for 20-25 years, while the underground pipes can last up to 100 years!

This longevity means fewer replacements compared to traditional boilers. Investing in a ground source heat pump gives you a reliable heating solution for decades, and you can keep your system running smoothly by carrying out some small, regular checks. 

So, what checks and maintenance will you need to carry out? Luckily, ground source heat pumps are designed for low upkeep. All you really need to do is:


By staying on top of these tasks, you can prolong the pump's life and enjoy reliable heating throughout the year.

Unlike some heating systems which can be quite noisy, ground source heat pumps are almost silent. The main components are buried underground or housed in a single unit, reducing noise levels for a peaceful home environment. You can enjoy the warmth without the hums and clunks of traditional systems!


Did you know that many ground source heat pumps provide both heating and cooling? In winter, they warm your home and in summer, they can cool it by extracting heat from indoors and releasing it into the ground. This dual functionality makes them a versatile, year-round solution.

What’s more, ground source heat pumps are a great match for 

, creating a powerful duo for saving energy. When used together, our heat pumps can use extra electricity from your solar panels to heat your home efficiently while maximising your use of renewable energy. 

By combining these technologies, you can lower both your carbon footprint and energy bills. 


On top of all these other advantages, installing a ground source heat pump can boost your property's value. After all, energy-efficient homes are increasingly attractive to buyers, who appreciate the long-term savings and environmental benefits. 

Because homes with ground source heat pumps often stand out in the market, you can make back some of the initial ground source heat pump cost through a higher resale value. 


Compare deals on ground source heat pumps with SpotDif


Ready to invest in renewable energy and find a great deal on a 

? Look no further than SpotDif — we specialise in connecting homeowners with reliable suppliers offering top-quality ground source heat pumps. All you need to do is fill out a few questions using our 

, and we’ll match you up with a top-rated 

Let us help you find the perfect ground source heat pump that meets your needs and fits your budget, so you can enjoy efficient, sustainable heating for years to come.

Explore 10 top benefits of ground source heat pumps for your UK home. Compare heat pump suppliers with SpotDif for an energy efficient heating solution.

The top 10 advantages of ground source heat pumps for UK homes

 becoming increasingly accessible and popular in the UK, you may be wondering if they’re a viable investment for you. If you’ve been looking into the subject, you’ll know how 

 can be a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint and make your property more environmentally friendly and energy efficient.

But did you know that solar panels can also save you money? Let’s explore the main ways that photovoltaic (PV) solar panels can bring you a valuable return on your investment

The most direct way that solar panels can save homeowners money is on your energy bills. By using renewable energy generated by your panels, you can lower your reliance on the national grid. This means you don’t need to buy electricity — you can generate it for free from the sun’s rays.

How much money do solar panels save you per month? Well, the answer to that depends on several factors, including:

The size and energy needs of your home determine the number of panels you’ll require. For example:

The number you have on your roof will affect how much solar energy you can harness. Ultimately, the more panels you have, the greater your potential savings.

As well as helping you determine how many PV panels you need, your household’s energy usage will affect how much money you can save. 

If your household uses a lot of energy, solar panels can offset a substantial portion of your electricity costs. For instance, if you consume 900 kWh per month and your solar panels generate 600 kWh, you’ll only need to purchase 300 kWh from the grid.

On the other hand, if your property is very efficient, the solar power you generate may be able to cover nearly all of your energy costs. Some households can even achieve a net-zero energy consumption, where their solar production meets their energy use or exceeds it. If your panels generate more solar energy than you use, you can make money by 

, or thin-film PV panels also has an impact. In general, monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient, which means they can lead to greater savings over time. However, it’s worth noting that they also tend to come with a higher initial cost.

The above factors make it tricky to give an exact figure on how much solar panels can save on your monthly bills. However, the Energy Savings Trust estimates that an average UK household with a 3.5 kilowatt-peak can 

 — working out at a monthly saving of £9 to £34. 

With these numbers, UK homeowners can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in around 14 years. As you’ll see, this could be sooner with incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee.

For a more accurate idea of how much solar panels could save you on your energy bills and when you’re likely to break even, we recommend using the Energy Savings Trust’s 

Did you know that there are government incentives to encourage both homeowners and businesses to install solar panels? In the UK, these include grants, such as the 

 to help lower the cost of solar panel installation. Financial support from the government and other organisations can help homeowners save money on the initial investment costs associated with solar panels.

If you’re interested in learning more about the financial support available, take a look at our guide to 

. For homeowners in Ireland, we also have details on 

 is another programme from which homeowners can benefit. Through this scheme, you can sell any excess electricity your solar powers generate back to the grid. This can significantly reduce your monthly energy bills, saving you huge amounts of money in the long run.

Another benefit of solar panels is the value they can add to your property. While this isn’t a direct saving, as such, it can certainly help you with future property purchases. 

Installing solar panels is a great way to future-proof your home. And as well as lowering your current energy bills (and your carbon footprint), research suggests that solar panels can add anywhere from 2% to 14% to your property’s value. That equates to thousands of pounds! 

Why do solar panels increase property value? Prospective buyers recognise the long-term savings and environmental benefits that solar power can bring. With climate change, the cost of living, and energy efficiency at the forefront of many people’s minds, it’s no wonder that solar-equipped homes are an attractive choice.

While it’s vital to take your initial expenditure into account, the boost in property value can, in many cases, result in a healthy return on investment.

Can installing a solar panel battery save you more money?

Installing solar panels is a great way to save money on your energy bills and add value to your property. However, adding a 

 to the mix can increase your savings further. 

Solar batteries do, of course, require extra investment initially but, over time, they can maximise your 

A solar battery stores any excess energy that your PV panels generate and allows you to use it at a later date — whether that’s at night or in the winter when less direct sunlight is available. 

So, how much can a solar battery save you? Well, as with solar panels themselves, this again depends on several factors such as your household energy usage, the type of battery, and the number of solar panels you install. 


As a general guide, however, you can expect to save around 20% more on your annual bill when compared with solar panels only. 

Compare and save on solar panels with SpotDif

Solar panels are a smart investment for UK homeowners. As well as helping you reduce your carbon footprint, PV panels can slash your monthly energy bills and give your property value a boost. 

When you shop around to find the best deal on 

, you can benefit even further — and at SpotDif, we can help you do just that. Our handy comparison tool makes finding top-rated 

 for affordable, high-quality solar panels today and see how much money you could save. 

Does solar power save you money? Learn how solar panels can lower energy bills, increase your property value, and more. Compare and save with SpotDif. 

3 ways solar panels can save homeowners money

Both homeowners and businesses are turning to solar power more and more with each passing year. Across the globe, 

, with solar power being the most widely available source. The UK is somewhat behind, but with the drive towards 

, solar panel installation is on the rise. There’s been a lot of focus on residential solar panels, but what about commercial spaces? 

 are a good fit for your business, read on. We’re going to explore the benefits of solar panels for businesses of all sizes. 

Are solar panels suitable for small businesses?

We recognise that the concept of commercial 

 can seem like a vast undertaking, suitable only for large businesses. However, solar panels can be a great investment for small businesses, too.

With solar technology becoming more affordable and accessible — especially with the availability of 

 — even small enterprises can benefit. Small businesses and SMEs often have lower energy demands, making solar installations more affordable and quicker to install. After all, you won’t need as many solar panels to keep your premises running.

So, what are the main advantages of commercial solar panels for businesses of all sizes? 

One of the most significant benefits of commercial solar panels is the reduction in energy bills. By generating your own electricity, you can significantly cut down on the amount of power you need to purchase from the grid.

This not only lowers your energy costs but also protects your business from fluctuating energy prices. Over time, the savings on electricity bills can offset the initial investment in solar panels, leading to substantial long-term financial benefits.

Installing solar panels helps reduce your business’s carbon footprint. Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of power that doesn’t produce harmful emissions. 

By switching to solar, you can significantly decrease your reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to the 

. This commitment to sustainability can improve your business's environmental impact and support global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Solar panels provide your business with greater energy independence. By generating your own electricity, you reduce reliance on external energy suppliers. This can be particularly beneficial during energy price hikes or supply shortages. With the addition of a 

, you can also store excess energy generated during the day for use at night, ensuring a continuous power supply.

Take a look at our guide to learn more about 

Investing in solar energy can enhance your business's corporate image as 

. By adopting solar power, you demonstrate your commitment to environmental responsibility. This can attract new customers, retain existing ones, and improve relationships with stakeholders who prioritise sustainability.

The UK government offers several financial incentives to support businesses investing in solar energy. From the 

, which allows you to earn money by selling excess electricity back to the grid, these incentives make solar power a financially viable option for many businesses.

In a similar way, businesses can also take advantage of various tax benefits when installing solar panels. These include capital allowances, which let businesses deduct the cost of solar panel installation from their taxable profits. 

Some local authorities may also offer additional tax incentives, further reducing the overall cost of your investment.

Did you know that solar panels can boost your commercial property’s value? Just as residential solar panels can increase your home’s value, commercial buildings with renewable energy systems are more attractive to buyers or tenants, leading to 

This investment can offer a significant return if you decide to sell or lease your property.

Solar panels require minimal maintenance once installed. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections are usually enough to keep them operating efficiently. This low maintenance need translates to lower ongoing costs compared to other energy systems, making solar panels a hassle-free investment.

9. Job creation and local economic support

Investing in solar energy supports local economies by creating jobs in the renewable energy sector. This includes roles in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and sales. By supporting the local workforce, your business contributes to economic growth and sustainability in your community.

Solar energy systems are highly scalable. You can start with a small installation and expand it as your business grows. This flexibility lets you adapt to changing energy needs without significant overhauls or disruptions.

The average cost of commercial solar panels

The cost of commercial solar panels in the UK varies based on the size of the system and specific requirements. 

These costs generally mean you can expect to break even on your investment within 5 to 10 years, depending on your company’s energy consumption and your energy supplier’s tariff. 

As with any business investment, there are several factors that affect your overall solar panel bill. You’ll want to consider the complexity of the installation, the type of solar panels chosen, and any additional features such as battery storage. 

To learn more about commercial solar panel prices and the factors that influence them, please feel free to explore our 

Which solar panels are best for your business needs?

Choosing the right solar panels depends on your business's specific needs and goals. As a general rule of thumb, monocrystalline panels are highly efficient and ideal for businesses with limited roof space. They have a higher upfront cost but offer better long-term performance.

Polycrystalline panels, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly and suitable for larger installations where space is not a constraint.

Then there are thin-film solar panels. These are flexible and lightweight, making them suitable for installations where weight and flexibility are concerns. They perform well in low-light conditions but require more space. 

And finally, solar tiles integrate seamlessly into your building's roof, preserving aesthetics while generating power. They are more expensive and less efficient but are ideal if appearance is a priority.

How to find your ideal commercial solar panels with SpotDif

 can be challenging. SpotDif simplifies this process by allowing you to compare different solar panel providers and products quickly. Our 

 helps narrow down your choices to help you find the ideal commercial panels for your building, from top-rated suppliers.

By using SpotDif, you save time and money, ensuring you get the best deal on solar panels that meet your business's needs. We provide detailed information on different types of solar panels and offer insights into the best products and services available in the UK market. Let us help you navigate the solar panel market and find the perfect fit for your business needs.

 are a good fit for your business, read on. We’re going to explore the benefits of solar panels for businesses of all sizes.



10 ways commercial solar panels can benefit your business

, it’s clear that drivers are increasingly making the switch to electric vehicles. 

If you’re one of them, you might be navigating the world of 

 and wondering which level is right for you.

There are three levels — 1, 2, and 3 — each designed with specific features to meet different charging needs. 

We’re here to break down the differences without the jargon, helping you understand what each level offers. Whether you're new to electric vehicles or looking to upgrade your charging setup, our guide will assist you in making an informed decision about which charger is the best match for your EV charging needs.

TL;DR? Don’t worry, we have a summary of the pros and cons of each EV charger type. 

EV charging: Level 1 and Level 2 vs Level 3

An EV charger is essential for anyone with an electric vehicle, as it replenishes the battery and keeps your car running. These chargers come in three levels, each offering different charging speeds and power capacities to suit a variety of needs and setups. 

As we’ll explore in more depth, Level 1 EV chargers are typically used at home and provide a slow, steady charge — ideal for overnight use. Meanwhile, Level 2 chargers are faster, making them suitable for home and public settings. Then there are 

. These offer the quickest charging, perfect for rapid top-ups during longer journeys. 

Understanding these levels can help you choose the right charger to fit your lifestyle and driving habits. But how exactly do they differ? Let’s explore some of the key features to consider when finding the right EV charger for your vehicle.

Do EV chargers fit into a standard electrical outlet?

Choosing the right EV charger often starts with a simple question: Can it plug into a standard electrical plug socket? 

It’s worth noting that installing a Level 3 EV charger at home is usually impractical due to high power demands and cost. It’s better suited to workplaces and other commercial spaces. In general, most residential setups cannot support this without significant upgrades. Level 2 chargers are more suitable for home use, offering a good balance between speed and expense. 

Once you’ve established how you plug your charger in, you’ll want to think about its output.

What type of electric vehicle is an EV charger suitable for?

Let’s match your EV to the right charger, considering what you drive and how you use it. Each charger type brings something different to the table. By knowing what kind of car you drive and how you use it, you can pick the perfect charger to suit your needs. 

Whether it's keeping the daily grind smooth or making sure you're ready for that big trip, the right charger makes all the difference.

These are suitable for standard residential EVs. They’re best for lighter, everyday use or if you’re just topping up overnight. They also work well for plug-in hybrids as they’re Ideal for those small, daily runs — keeping you fully charged without fuss.

A Level 2 EV charger is also great for residential vehicles, especially if you’re clocking up more miles. It’s also a good fit for larger, family EVs — if your car has a bigger battery that needs frequent charging, this is a more suitable option than a Level 1 charger.

You might also want to consider Level 2 chargers if you run a small fleet of commercial cars — they can help you ensure your vehicles are charged up and ready for the road quickly.

A Level 3 EV charger is the only option suitable for heavy-duty vehicles and high-performance electric cars. If you’ve got a powerful motor, you’ll need a charger that can keep up.

Level 3 chargers are also a must-have for those longer trips where time is of the essence, so bear this in mind if you drive a long-range residential or commercial EV.

We're researching and writing new blog articles to go here. If you'd like to work together on them, please email hello@spotdif.com

We're researching and writing new blog articles to go here. If you'd like to work together on them, please email hello@spotdif.com