How to read your electricity meter
25th November 2020
Reading a meter can be tricky, so we’ve created the following guide to make it easier for you.
Dial meters
Reading a dial meter (also known as a ‘clock meter’) can be tricky, so we’ve created the following diagrams to make it easier for you. Even if your meter dials look different from what’s below, the steps we’ve described remain valid. When taking your reading, please ignore:
- Any red dials or numbers in red
- Dials without a pointer or numbers
- Dials marked 1/10
For all of the relevant dials on your meter, please take these steps:
If you didn’t get it right, you’ve probably entered a “4” instead of a “3”. Look again at our explanation above to understand why it’s correct to enter a “3”.
Standard mechanical meters and Digital meters
These meters come in two basic forms: single rate and dual rate. Single rate meter: you pay the same unit rate at all times of the day. Dual-rate meter: you pay one unit rate during the day and a reduced rate at night.
For both types, write down the numbers left to right. You can ignore any numbers appearing:
- After a decimal point
- In red
- With a “T” before them (digital meters only)
For dual-rate meters
Your dual-rate meter will display two lots of numbers in one of the following ways:
- The Day rate and Night rate displays are both visible
- The meter alternates between the Day rate and Night rate displays
- Press the button that switches between the Day rate and Night rate displays
In all cases, please note down the two readings and provide them separately to your supplier.
How to submit your meter reading
3 simple ways to send us a read:
- Send an SMS: Text “Start” to 0772 349 4043 and follow the instructions
- Email customerreads@opusenergy.com with your meter reads and Site ID
- Log on to your online account.
Other providers may have different requirements, so please ask your supplier how to submit your reading.
Smart meters
If you have a Smart meter, you don’t need to supply meter readings.
If you don’t have a Smart meter, here’s a summary of the benefits they offer your business:
- Accurate bills (and no estimates), so you only pay for the energy you use
- Near real-time information on your energy usage, so you stay in control
- Better energy management, helping you save money
- No need for manual meter readings, thanks to automatic transfer of data
- The chance to reduce your emissions and have a positive impact on climate change
If you’re interested in discovering more about Smart meters, please get in touch: SmartOperations@opusenergy.com.
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