How to read an electric or gas meter
There are several different types of gas and electric meters out there, and they’re read in different ways. Luckily, whichever meter you have, our simple guide will help you understand how to read it.
There are several different types of gas and electric meters out there, and they’re read in different ways. Luckily, whichever meter you have, our simple guide will help you understand how to read it.
Why is it important to check my electric or gas meter?
Checking meter readings will help make sure you’re paying the right amount for the energy you’re using. To help keep bills on track, particularly if you pay monthly by Direct Debit, submit your meter readings to your energy provider every month. Luckily, most suppliers will send you an email reminder, just before your bill’s due.
How to read a digital electric meter
If you own a digital electric meter, your meter reading will be on its digital display. Take note of the numbers from left to right, ignoring any that are in red, and any that appear after a decimal point.
How to read a dial electric meter
If you have a dial electric meter, you’ll see that each dial shows values zero to nine, with a pointer. Read the dials from left to right. Write down the numbers on the dials, except the ones that appear on the last dial on the right. If any are between two numbers, use the lower figure.
The exception is if the pointer sits between zero and nine, where you’ll always use nine. But if any of the dials are on nine, you’ll need to minus one from the value of the dial before it.
How to read a two-rate electric meter
If you’ve opted for Economy 7, Economy 10 or Evening and Weekend tariffs you’ll have a two-rate meter. This meter shows two different values that represent your day and night readings, which should be labelled on your meter. If it isn’t clear, check your most recent bill to find out which reading belongs to which rate.
How to read an imperial digital gas meter
Most imperial gas meters have four main numbers, which reset to zero once the figure reaches 9,999. You’ll need to make a note of the first four numbers, from left to right, including any zeros but excluding numbers that appear in red.
How to read a metric digital gas meter
Unlike imperial gas meters, metric gas meters have five main numbers. Take down the first five numbers, from left to right, including zeros. Exclude any numbers that appear after a decimal point.
How to read a dial gas meter
Read the numbers on the dials from left to right, except for those on any red dials and the larger dial.
Like a dial electric meter, if the pointer is between two numbers, always use the lower one. And if it’s between zero and nine, use nine. If any of the dials read 9, minus one from the value of the dial before it.
Is it worth getting a smart meter?
Smart meters are convenient because they automatically send your meter readings to your energy supplier, so you don’t have to take readings manually or remember to submit them.
Should I consider switching energy suppliers?
Whichever meter you’re using, switching energy suppliers could be one way to make savings on your energy bills. Compare energy providers in minutes to see if you can save.
