This guide will show you the steps to reading your energy meter and submitting your readings to energy suppliers in the UK.
Standard Energy Meter #
- Standard electricity meters typically have a series of mechanical dials or a digital display showing numbers.
- To read the meter, note down the numbers displayed on each dial from left to right, taking care to read them accurately. If the pointer is between two numbers, record the lower number.
- For digital displays, simply write down the numbers displayed on the screen.
- Once you have recorded the readings, you can submit them to your energy supplier through their online portal, mobile app, or by phone.
Standard Gas Meter #
- Standard gas meters usually have a row of clock-style dials or a digital display showing numbers.
- To read the meter, note down the numbers displayed on each dial from left to right, similar to reading an electricity meter.
- Some gas meters may also have a multiplier, which is a fixed number that needs to be multiplied by the reading to calculate the actual usage.
- After recording the readings, submit them to your energy supplier using the same methods as for the electricity meter.
Prepayment Meter #
- Prepayment meters for both electricity and gas display the remaining credit balance on a digital screen.
- To check the remaining credit, press the appropriate button on the meter to display the balance.
- If the credit is running low, you will need to top up the meter using a key, card, or mobile app, depending on the type of meter you have.
- Some prepayment meters may also display error codes if there are any issues with the meter or payment process.
- You can top up your meter at local shops, post offices, or online, depending on the payment options available from your energy supplier.
Smart Meters #
- Smart meters automatically record and transmit energy consumption data to your energy supplier, eliminating the need for manual readings.
- The in-home display (IHD) provided with smart meters allows you to monitor your energy usage in real-time and track costs.
- While you don’t need to manually submit readings for smart meters, it’s still a good idea to regularly check your IHD to stay aware of your energy usage and costs
Interval Meters #
- Interval meters record energy consumption data at regular intervals, typically every 30 minutes.
- These meters are usually installed for large commercial and industrial energy users and are read remotely by energy suppliers.
- If you have an interval meter, you won’t need to manually read or submit readings. Your energy supplier will use the data collected by the meter to calculate your energy usage and bill you accordingly.
When submitting an energy meter reading to your supplier, always ensure that the readings are accurate and clearly written. Double-check the numbers to avoid any errors that could lead to incorrect billing. By regularly submitting accurate meter readings, you can ensure that you are billed correctly for your energy usage and avoid estimated bills.
For more information on meters and how your energy supplier accepts meter readings, please visit their website for more details.
Meter and meter readings | EDF (edfenergy.com) | Meters – Help & Support – British Gas | Your meter – help and support | E.ON Next (eonnext.com)
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