At a glance
If you have a smart meter, your meter readings should be sent automatically.
When you switch providers, you may have to submit the first reading manually.
For traditional meters, it’s recommended that you submit meter readings regularly.
You can typically submit readings online, via an app, or over the phone.
Do I need to submit meter readings?
The beauty of smart meters is that they automatically send meter readings to your energy supplier, so most of the time you don’t have to.
There are exceptions, though. Even if you have a smart meter, providers typically ask you to send the first meter reading manually when you switch providers. And your provider may ask you to take manual readings if it can’t connect to your smart meter.
If you’re on a prepayment meter, you also usually won’t need to submit meter readings. With many meters, usage is sent to your energy supplier automatically when you top up or recorded when you use a key or card to add credit.
But if you have a traditional meter, you’ll need to send your energy supplier regular readings.
How do I submit a meter reading?
Most energy providers offer several ways to send your readings, so you can choose the one that’s most convenient for you.
You can usually submit your readings through:
Your online account
Your energy supplier’s app
Your supplier’s online-chat service
Text message
Your supplier’s automated phone service.
If you're unsure how to read your meter, see our guide on how to read an electric or gas meter.
Why do I need to submit meter readings?
Sending regular meter readings is the best way to make sure your bills are accurate.
If you don’t send your energy supplier a meter reading, it'll estimate your energy use, which could mean you end up paying either too much or too little and face a large bill later.
How often should I submit my gas and electric meter readings?
Unless you have a smart meter, you should submit a meter reading when your supplier asks for one.
It’s typically recommended to do this around the time your bill is due every month, or quarterly if that’s how you’re billed.
Your energy supplier may send you reminders – especially if you have an online account or app. If you still have questions, get in touch with your supplier.
What happens if I don’t submit meter readings to my energy supplier?
In most cases, if you don't provide a meter reading, your supplier will estimate your energy usage and base your bill on an estimate. This means you could pay more than you need to.
If you’re on a standard tariff, it’s a good idea to take a meter reading when the energy price cap is due to change. That can help you avoid overpaying.
I’ve been submitting regular meter readings – why is a meter reader still coming by?
Most energy suppliers still have their meter readers stop by occasionally, even if you submit readings online, to make sure everything’s in order.
Meter readers always carry official ID, so be sure to check this before letting them in.
My meter reading is high. What can I do?
If your meter reading is higher than usual, there are ways you can bring it down in time for your next bill. To find out where you could cut your energy use, read our guide to which appliances use the most energy. And take a look at a few energy saving tips.
If you’re unhappy with what you’re paying, you may want to see if you could benefit from switching energy providers. We can help you compare energy tariffs for your postcode so you can see if you could save on your energy bills.
How to submit meter readings to the major energy companies
Each energy supplier has its own preferred way to receive meter readings. Here are some of them:
British Gas
If you don’t have a smart meter, British Gas suggests submitting your meter reading on the app, online or by using its automated phone service.
EDF
EDF says customers should log into their online account to submit a meter reading. You can also take a photo of your reading and upload it onto the app.
E.ON Next
The quickest way to submit a meter reading to E.ON Next is in your online account. If you don’t have an account, and don't want to sign up for one, you can email your reading or give it over the phone.
ScottishPower
ScottishPower has videos on its website showing you how to read all types of meters. To send your reading, log into your online account, use the ScottishPower app or call its automated phone service.
OVO
You can submit meter readings using your online account, or through the OVO Energy app. There’s also the option to submit your reading through its online chat service or over the phone if you’d prefer.
FAQs
Should I get a smart meter?
Smart meters can give you more accurate bills and help you keep a closer eye on your energy use. This makes it easier to cut back, which is good news for both the planet and your bills.
Smart meters use mobile technology to automatically send meter readings to your energy supplier. That allows energy companies to see exactly how much energy you’re using and when. In the future, this could allow them to offer you more flexible tariffs.
How can I get a smart meter?
Your energy provider should give you a smart meter free of charge. Simply contact them and ask to have one fitted.
The UK government is extremely keen for us all to switch over to smart meters and it requires energy suppliers to offer them to their customers.
This is partly so they can upgrade the UK’s ageing energy system, but also to help the UK reach its net-zero targets by 2050.
Over the past decade, Kate has worked in various industries, including company secretarial, small business support and property investing.
Her move to financial services in 2022 not only helped her find her niche in personal finance writing, but also just how alienating finance can be. She’s now motivated by making everyday money a piece of cake for everyone, helping her readers feel informed and in control.
Kate now specialises in savings and current accounts as well as broadband, mobile and energy products.
Stephen Maunder is an experienced personal finance editor, having spent more than a decade working for consumer print and online titles. He won several industry awards for his personal finance features at Which?, before becoming Deputy Editor at Compare the Market.
Dan is focused on helping people and businesses get the right deal for their energy in a volatile market. For more than 20 years, he has been introducing, developing and managing product propositions across a variety of industries, including energy, insurance and banking, all to get the right outcome for customers.
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