Have you ever looked at your energy bill and wondered why it is so high? Don’t be frustrated, you are not alone! Many business owners end up paying more due to estimated bills. However, the good news is that you can avoid high bills from your gas and electricity suppliers by submitting accurate meter readings.
Submitting your meter read may seem like a headache at first, but it’s a simple process. Whether you have a standard dial or a smart meter, this blog will guide you through everything from identifying your meter to sharing your meter reads.
Types of Energy Meters and How to Read Them
Not all meters look the same which makes the reading complicated. But you shouldn’t worry, the following is the complete breakdown of the most common energy meters and how to read them.
Standard Meter – The Most Common One
If you have a simple digital display with numbers then you are using the digital meter. It is one of the easiest meters to read.
How to read it:
- Just note down the numbers from left to right.
- Ignore any red numbers or anything after a decimal point.
That’s it! You have got your accurate meter reading.
Dial Meter – Only Looks Complicated
Dial meters can be a little tricky because they have clock-like dials instead of a digital display.
How to read it:
- Read the dials from left to right.
- If the pointer is between two numbers, always take the lower number.
- If the pointer is exactly on a number, check the next dial. If that dial is moving towards 9, subtract one from your first number.
The dial meter might take a few tries, but once you get used to it, it is easy.
Smart Meter – The Easy One
Smart meters automatically send readings to your domestic or business energy supplier, so you don’t usually need to do anything. But if you want to check your usage, here’s how:
How to read it:
- Press the display button (sometimes labelled “A” or “B”).
- Your usage should show up in kWh for electricity or cubic meters for gas.
- If you need to submit a reading manually, just note down the numbers and ignore any digits after the decimal.
The best part is, there are no more estimated bills because smart meters do all the work for you.
Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Meter Read
Submitting your meter readings might seem like a hassle task, but it is essential to avoid surprises in energy bills. Without meter read submissions, your supplier may rely on estimated readings, which can sometimes lead to overpaying. Here is how you can submit accurate meter readings.
Step 1: Gather Your Meter Readings
Read your Meters: The first step is to take an accurate reading of your meter. If you have a digital meter, simply read the numbers from left to right, ignoring any numbers in red or after a decimal point. If you have a dial meter, note down the numbers from left to right, choosing the lower number if the pointer is between two digits.
Save the Date: Once you have the correct reading, make sure to write down the date as well, as your supplier may require it when you submit the reading.
Step 2: Choose Your Submission Method
Once you noted down your meter readings, now you have to submit them to your energy supplier. In today’s digital world, there are many options for you to submit meter readings, so you can pick the one that’s most convenient for you.
Website: The most convenient is usually through your energy supplier’s official website, where you only have to navigate to the “Submit Meter Reads” page and enter the required information.
Mobile App: Many suppliers also give the option of digital mobile apps through which you can submit your meter readings with a few steps.
Message or Phone: Some companies also allow customers to submit their meter readings via text message, or can call them.
Email: For some suppliers, you can also email them if you prefer.
Keep this in mind, whichever method you choose, ensure that the reading is accurate and save the date to avoid any billing discrepancies.
Step 3: Submit Your Readings
After choosing your submission way, the next step is entering your readings and sending them off. If you are submitting online via the website then ensure that you enter the accurate account number and double-check all details before submitting. Moreover, most energy suppliers ask for meter reading dates, so make sure to include that as well. Some suppliers ask for the date of the reading, so make sure to include that as well. Once you submit meter reads you will get the confirmation message via email.
Step 4: Verify Submission
Only sharing your meter reads is not the final step to getting accurate billings you have to make sure that it’s processed correctly. Most suppliers send a confirmation once your reading is received. However, it is always a good idea to cross-check meter reads with the next bill to ensure that the updated reading has been applied. If you notice any differences, contact your energy supplier’s customer support to assist further.
If you are still confused, check out this detailed video that explains how to submit your meter reading in simple steps.
How Often Should You Submit a Meter Read?
To avoid estimated bills and unexpected charges, you should submit meter readings every month. Especially, if you are not on a fixed tariff or receive monthly invoices. If you are billed quarterly, submitting a reading at least once every three months ensures you are only paying for what you use. Some suppliers also send reminders, but staying proactive helps prevent estimated bills that eventually protect you from extra billing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Meter Reads
When submitting your meter read a small mistake can lead to incorrect bills or unexpected high payments. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
Misreading the Meter: Reading extra digits, ignoring leading zeros, or misinterpreting dial meters can lead to inaccurate bills.
Forgetting to Submit on Time: Late or missed submissions can result in estimated bills, which may not reflect your actual usage.
Entering the Wrong Meter Details: Mixing up gas and electricity readings or submitting someone else’s meter details can create confusion. Double-check your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) and readings before submitting.
Skipping Confirmation Checks: After submitting your reading, always check for a confirmation from your supplier.
