How To Read Your Smart Meter

At Energy Advice Helpline, we’re committed to helping you understand your energy usage. Learning how to read your smart meter is a simple way to take control of your energy consumption and bills. Smart meters are a great way to monitor your energy habits, and use this knowledge to make savings.

What is a Smart Meter?

A smart meter is a device that automatically sends your gas and electricity readings to your supplier. It comes with an In-Home Display (IHD), which shows your energy usage in real-time, helping you manage your energy consumption and costs.

Why Should You Read Your Smart Meter?

• Keep track of your usage: It shows you how much energy you’re using.
• Understand your costs: You can see how much you’re spending in real time.
• Spot ways to save money: When you know what you’re using, you can find ways to cut back.

How to Read Your Smart Meter

There are two main types of smart meters in the UK: SMETS1 and SMETS2. SMETS1 meters rely on a mobile network to transmit your energy usage data to your supplier. SMETS2 meters use a dedicated and secure smart data network known as the DCC for communication, so a strong mobile signal isn’t necessary.

If You Have a SMETS1 Smart Meter:

1. Electricity:
   • Press the button with the number “9” on the keypad.
   • You’ll see a number on the screen. Write down the number before the decimal point (you can ignore the numbers after the dot).
2. Gas:
   • Again, press “9” on the keypad.
   • Write down the number that appears on the screen before the decimal point.

For users on a day and night rate (known as Economy 7), press “9” again to see both readings.

If You Have a SMETS2 Smart Meter:

1. Electricity:
   • Press the button marked “A” until a number appears on the screen. This is your electricity reading.
   • Write down the number before the dot.
2. Gas:
   • Press the “A” button until you see your gas reading on the screen.
   • Again, write down the number before the dot.

For users on a day and night rate, both readings will show up as “Rate 1” and “Rate 2.” Make sure to note both down.

How to Use Your In-Home Display (IHD)

Your IHD is a small screen that shows your energy use in real-time. Here’s what you’ll see:

• Electricity and Gas Use: How much you’re using in pounds and pence.
• Traffic Light System:
  • Green means you’re using a little energy.
  • Amber means you’re using a medium amount.
  • Red means you’re using a lot.

Checking your IHD regularly helps you understand how much energy different things in your home are using. For example, you’ll see the cost go up when you turn on the kettle or washing machine.

How To Manually Send Your Smart Meter Readings

If your smart meter isn’t sending readings or you’re switching suppliers, you may need to send them yourself. Here’s how:

1. Write down the numbers you see as explained above.
2. Log in to your energy supplier’s website, app, or call them to provide the readings.

More Ways To Save

Another way to make large savings on your energy bills is by taking advantage of government-backed schemes and grants. These initiatives provide valuable assistance to residents across the UK, providing energy-efficient home upgrades that makes powering your home more affordable and environmentally friendly.

For more information, simply click the button below.