Five Signs You've Outgrown Your Internet Provider in Cleveland, TN

November 13, 2026

Your internet needs change as your family grows and the way you use the internet evolves. If your connection is struggling to keep up, it may be time to consider a different provider.


Here are five signs you've outgrown your current internet service and what to look for in a better connection.


Your Internet Slows Down When Everyone Is Online

Does your internet work fine until everyone gets home?


One person is streaming a movie, another is playing an online game, and someone else is trying to finish a work assignment. Suddenly, everything starts buffering or slowing down.


This can happen when your internet connection doesn't have enough capacity to handle everything happening on your network at once. Today's households have more connected devices than ever, including phones, tablets, smart TVs, gaming consoles, security cameras, smart home appliances, etc.


If your internet struggles during the busiest times of the day, it may be time to look at a connection that can handle more activity.


Cleveland Utilities Fiber offers various speeds, giving households options for everything from everyday browsing to homes with multiple people streaming, gaming, and working online at the same time.


Video Calls Freeze and Work Takes Longer

Working from home has changed what many people need from their internet provider. It's no longer just about downloading files or browsing websites. You also need a dependable connection for video meetings, cloud-based applications, and sending large files.


If your video calls keep freezing, your audio cuts out, or uploading a presentation takes longer than it should, your internet connection could be part of the problem.

Upload speed is especially important here. Many traditional internet connections offer faster download speeds than upload speeds. That may work fine for watching videos, but it can cause problems when you're sending files, backing up photos, or joining video calls.


CU Fiber provides symmetrical upload and download speeds. That means your upload speed matches your download speed, making it easier to send large files, share content, and handle work that depends on a reliable connection.


You're Tired of Buffering, Lag, and Interruptions

Few things are more frustrating than settling in to watch the big game or stream a movie only to watch the loading circle spin across your screen. The same goes for online gaming, where lag can affect your experience. If these problems happen regularly, it's worth taking a closer look at your internet service.


Keep in mind that slow Wi-Fi isn't always your internet provider's fault. Your router's location, outdated equipment, wireless interference, and the distance between your device and router can all affect performance. But if you've checked your equipment and still experience frequent slowdowns, your connection itself may be holding you back.


Fiber internet sends data over fiber-optic cables, offering high capacity, fast speeds, and reliable performance. CU Fiber's 100% fiber-to-the-home network brings that connection directly to your home, helping support the streaming, gaming, and browsing your household depends on.


Your Monthly Bill Keeps Going Up, but Your Service Isn't Getting Better

Internet bills can be frustrating, especially when your monthly cost increases but your service doesn't seem to improve.


You may be paying extra for faster speeds, dealing with data limits, or discovering additional fees on your bill. If you have to pay more to get the performance you need, it's worth comparing your options.


Earlier this year, Cleveland Utilities actually lowered its residential 1 Gig fiber internet price!


When evaluating a new provider, look beyond the advertised download speed. Consider the monthly price, upload speeds, data caps, contract requirements, installation costs, and customer support.


Cleveland Utilities Fiber takes a straightforward approach. Our plans include symmetrical upload and download speeds, no data caps, no contracts, no speed throttling, and free installation. CU Fiber also offers local, around-the-clock customer service.


Your Smart Home Keeps Getting Smarter

A few years ago, your internet may have needed to support a computer, a couple of phones and a television. Today, your home could have dozens of connected devices.

Smart thermostats, video doorbells, security cameras, connected appliances, smart speakers, and streaming devices all rely on your home network. Add multiple family members using their devices at the same time, and your internet has a lot more to handle.


Smart home technology will keep growing.If you're adding connected devices or planning to upgrade your home technology, consider whether your current internet service can keep up. A faster, higher-capacity connection can help support your household's current needs and leave room for what's next.


Is It Time to Switch to CU Fiber Internet?

If any of these signs sound familiar, it may be time to rethink your internet service provider and switch to CU Fiber.


Cleveland Utilities fiber offers its electric customers a true 100% fiber-to-the-home network backed by a local utility that invests in the community it serves. With symmetrical speeds, no data caps, no contracts, and local customer support, you can get the connection your household needs without the hassles you may be used to.


Ready for an internet connection that keeps up with you?


Check your address and explore CU Fiber internet plans or call us at 423-472-4521 to learn more.

Cleveland Utilities Customer Appreciation Celebration - Friday, September 18, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

By Amy Ensley • September 1, 2026
Cleveland Utilities is excited to invite our customers and community to a Customer Appreciation Celebration on Friday, September 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CU Main Office, located at 2450 Guthrie Avenue NW, Cleveland, TN 37311. This special event is our way of saying thank you to the customers and community we are proud to serve. Guests can enjoy free food, giveaways and helpful information about Cleveland Utilities’ services and programs. Representatives will also be available to answer questions about CU Fiber and help customers sign up for fast, reliable, 100% fiber internet service. Event Details Date: Friday, September 18 Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: Cleveland Utilities Main Office 2450 Guthrie Avenue NW Cleveland, TN 37311 Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. Come enjoy lunch, learn more about Cleveland Utilities and celebrate with us. We look forward to seeing you there!

Why Cleveland Utilities Lowered Its Residential 1Gig Fiber Internet Pricing

By Amy Ensley • August 24, 2026
At Cleveland Utilities, we're different. We're a local internet provider that serves the Cleveland, TN, community, which is why it’s important to us to share why we lowered our residential 1 Gig fiber internet price rather than keeping the extra revenue. The answer is simple: we're a community-owned utility. Cleveland Utilities exists to serve the people of Cleveland (not outside shareholders). As a community-owned internet provider, our priorities are different than what you’re used to from other internet companies. Our recent price reduction isn't just about lowering your monthly bill. It's a reflection of our commitment to responsible stewardship, investing in our community, and delivering long-term value to the people we serve. It's one more example of what makes CU Fiber different. Community-Owned Means Customer-Focused Our mission at Cleveland Utilities is simple: provide reliable, high-quality services at a fair price while making investments that strengthen our community. Every decision we make is guided by what's best for the people and businesses we serve. That philosophy shapes every aspect of CU Fiber. When we find operational efficiencies and deliver the same exceptional service at a lower cost, we believe in passing those savings on to the people we work for: you! It’s one of the biggest advantages of being community-owned. Investing in Cleveland's Future Fiber internet is about more than faster downloads and smoother streaming. Cleveland Utilities’ reliable fiber network supports education, healthcare, remote work, economic development, and local businesses right here in Cleveland. Because we're locally owned, every investment we make is focused on what’s best for Cleveland, today and in the future. We're committed to maintaining and expanding our 100% fiber-to-the-home network so our customers continue to enjoy reliable, future-ready internet for years to come. Every improvement we make is an investment in the community we proudly serve. Lower Rates Reflect Responsible Stewardship Lowering the price of our 1 Gig fiber internet service wasn't a temporary promotion or a marketing campaign. It was the result of careful planning, responsible financial management, and our commitment to putting customers first. We seek out efficiencies and look for ways to share those benefits with our customers. When we invest, we invest with Cleveland's future in mind. And when we make decisions, we ask ourselves: "What's best for the community we serve?" Experience the CU Fiber Difference If you've been thinking about switching to fiber internet, there's never been a better time. Take advantage of our reduced 1 Gig pricing. Choose CU Fiber for reliable, community-focused service you can trust. Thank you for trusting Cleveland Utilities. We're proud to invest in our community and serve you one connection at a time.

Cleveland Utilities Authority President/CEO Tim Henderson Receives TMEPA Outstanding Service Award

By Amy Ensley • July 26, 2026
Cleveland Utilities Authority (CUA) is proud to announce that President/CEO Tim Henderson has received the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association (TMEPA) Outstanding Service Award. One of the association’s highest honors, the award recognizes exceptional leadership and dedicated service to Tennessee’s municipal electric power industry. Henderson received the award during the President’s Luncheon at the TMEPA Annual Conference on July 16 th in Knoxville. The award recognizes individuals who embody the ideals and values of public power leadership in Tennessee. Henderson has demonstrated exemplary leadership, provided outstanding service, and advocated not only for Cleveland Utilities Authority, but also for municipal electric systems throughout the state. Since becoming President/CEO in 2016, Henderson has guided Cleveland Utilities through a period of significant growth and innovation. Under his leadership, the utility has strengthened system reliability through grid modernization, launched CUA Fiber to provide high-speed internet services to its customers, successfully transitioned to an Energy Authority, and advanced initiatives that enhance infrastructure while keeping customer service at the forefront. “Tim’s leadership has helped position Cleveland Utilities Authority as a recognized leader among municipal utilities in Tennessee,” said TMEPA Executive Director, Brian Solsbee. “His vision, integrity, and dedication to the public power model—and to the customers and community he serves—make him exceptionally deserving of this prestigious recognition.”  “I am truly honored to receive this award,” Henderson said. “The collective work across Tennessee municipalities is what drives our industry forward. This recognition reflects the incredible work of our entire CUA team. Every achievement has been made possible by the dedicated employees who serve our customers each day. It is a privilege to work alongside such an outstanding group of professionals.” CUA and TMEPA congratulate Henderson on this well-deserved honor and thank him for his continued leadership and commitment to public power along with the employees, customers, and community CUA serves.

Residential Backflow Prevention Device Testing

By Amy Ensley • July 1, 2026
Cleveland Utilities Conducting Residential Backflow Testing in its Water Service Territory

Cleveland Utilities Authority Adopts FY2027 Annual Budget

By Amy Ensley • July 1, 2026
Cleveland Utilities Authority (CUA) has adopted its FY2027 Budget. Highlights of the approved rate adjustments for the 2027 fiscal year, effective July 1, 2026, are below. These adjustments reflect the increasing costs of providing safe, reliable utility services while supporting continued investment in essential infrastructure. Electric Rates CU customers will see no increase in electric rates. CUA continues to carefully manage operating costs and system investments while maintaining reliable electric service for our community. Water Rates Water rates will include a 5.00% internal adjustment to support the operation, maintenance and improvement of CUA’s water system. Cleveland Utilities Authority purchases a significant portion of its water supply from the Hiwassee Utilities Commission (HUC). HUC approved an 8.7% wholesale rate increase, which will be passed through to CUA customers. For an average residential customer using six units of water, these adjustments will result in an estimated monthly increase of $6.08 (actual impacts will vary based on individual water usage). Wastewater Rates Wastewater rates will increase by 7.00%. This adjustment will help support the continued operation and maintenance of the wastewater system, necessary infrastructure improvements and regulatory requirements. For an average residential customer using six units, the estimated monthly wastewater increase would be approximately $5.39 (actual impacts will vary based on individual usage). Fiber Rates There will be no rate increases for CU Fiber internet service. In fact, the price of CU Fiber’s popular residential 1 Gig package will decrease from $69.99 to $67.99 per month. Current 1 Gig customers will automatically receive the lower rate beginning July 1—no action or phone call is required. CU Fiber continues to provide 100% fiber-to-the-premises internet with symmetrical upload and download speeds, local customer service, no contracts and no hidden fees. Continuing to Serve Our Community Cleveland Utilities Authority understands that rate adjustments affect every household and business we serve. As a public utility, the revenue collected by CUA is reinvested into operating, maintaining and improving the utility systems that serve our customers. CU implements rate increases only when necessary to continue providing safe, reliable services and making essential infrastructure improvements. Our team remains committed to carefully managing costs while maintaining the dependable utility services our community relies on every day. These adjustments will take effect July 1, 2026. Customers with questions may contact Cleveland Utilities at 423-472-4521.

CUA Transitioning to Wastewater Capacity Fee Model July 1, 2026

By Amy Ensley • June 8, 2026
Cleveland Utilities Authority (CUA) has announced an update to its wastewater fee structure aimed at improving fairness and aligning customer contributions with system usage. Beginning July 1, 2026, CUA will transition from its current access fee structure based on water meter size to a wastewater capacity fee structure based on Equivalent Residential Units (ERUs). The change is designed to ensure that all customers contribute equitably based on the wastewater capacity demand they place on the system. Under the new model, one Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) is defined as up to 150 gallons per day, which represents the average daily residential wastewater contribution to the system. A single-family residential connection serves as the current benchmark for 1 ERU. Single-family residential connections will continue to pay the current connection fee of $2,200, which is equivalent to the existing 5/8-inch access fee. As a result, there will be no change in cost for new single-family residential connections when the new fee structure takes effect on July 1, 2026. The new ERU rate will be $2,200 per unit effective July 1, 2026. The updated fee model will primarily impact commercial and industrial developments, where wastewater capacity fees will be calculated based on projected flow contributions to the system rather than water meter size alone. For example, a commercial customer projected to discharge 6,000 gallons per day would equate to approximately 40 ERUs (6,000 gallons divided by 150 gallons per ERU). At the rate of $2,200 per ERU, the resulting wastewater capacity fee would be approximately $88,000. This updated approach provides a more accurate and equitable method of allocating system costs, ensuring that customers who place greater demand on the wastewater infrastructure contribute proportionally. The new capacity fee model is based on current development projections. However, CUA acknowledges that future development activity and associated revenues cannot be predicted with certainty and these fees will continue to be evaluated. For additional information about the wastewater capacity fee model, customers may contact Cleveland Utilities Authority at 423-472-4521.

CUA Grid Modernization Update: Electric Meter Replacement Project Underway

By Amy Ensley • June 5, 2026
What's Happening?

Separating Fact from Fiction About Fiber Internet

By Amy Ensley • June 3, 2026
What Is True Fiber-to-the-Home?

Cleveland Utilities Announces Cash Payment Rounding Update Due to National Penny Shortage

By Amy Ensley • May 19, 2026
Cleveland Utilities would like to inform customers of an update regarding cash payments due to the ongoing national penny shortage. Any cash payments made at Cleveland Utilities will be rounded to the nearest nickel. This adjustment only applies to customers paying with cash and is intended to help streamline transactions while pennies remain in limited supply nationwide. How the Rounding Process Works To make this transition simple and customer-friendly: If a cash payment rounds up and results in a small overage, customers may choose to apply the credit toward their next month’s bill. If the amount rounds down, any remaining balance under $1.00 can be carried forward to the next month without penalty. Electronic payments, checks, debit cards, credit cards, online payments, bank drafts, and other non-cash payment methods will not be affected and will continue to process for the exact billed amount. This adjustment is designed to minimize inconvenience while adapting to the reduced circulation of pennies across the country.  We appreciate our customers’ understanding and continued support.

Cleveland Utilities (CU) Completes Fiber Network Construction; CU Fiber Internet Now Available to All CU Electric Customers

By Amy Ensley • March 18, 2026
Cleveland Utilities (CU) is proud to announce the completion of its fiber network construction, marking a major milestone in delivering high-speed, reliable internet service to the Cleveland community. With this achievement, 100% of Cleveland Utilities electric customers now have access to CU Fiber Internet. This expansion represents a significant investment in the community, providing residents and businesses with the area’s only 100% fiber-to-the-premise network, backed by local customer service. CU Fiber Internet also offers straightforward, transparent, customer-friendly service with no contracts, no data caps, symmetrical upload and download speeds, and no late fees or penalties. The only exception to current service availability is for certain multi-tenant dwellings, such as apartment complexes and similar properties. In these cases, Cleveland Utilities must first obtain permission from property owners. Additionally, specialized engineering work is required for CU internet service delivery within these type properties. CU is actively working with property owners to get fiber service to multi-tenant dwellings as quickly as possible. “We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support and positive feedback from our customers throughout this project,” said Tim O. Henderson, Cleveland Utilities President/CEO. “This milestone would not have been possible without the trust and support of our local leaders and entire community.”  Customers are encouraged to make the switch to CU fiber today and experience fast, reliable, locally supported fiber internet service. To learn more or sign up for service, visit fiber.clevelandutilities.com or call 423-472-4521.