Electric meters: Everything you need to know

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You probably don’t give all that much thought to your electric meter. But this humble piece of machinery is integral in driving down your energy bills. This faithful machine dutifully records your energy usage. So don’t be a stranger! Visit it at least once a month and report what it tells you to your energy supplier. This will ensure that you are billed accuracy and you don’t throw money away on estimated electricity bills. Here we’ll look at everything you need to know about your electric energy meter, so you can get to know yours a little better.< br>Last update: November 2022

As you may have heard on the news, the UK energy market is currently under an immense amount of stress as a result of a global gas shortage driving up costs and putting several energy suppliers out of business. To learn more about this and stay updated on a daily basis you can read our page on the UK energy crisis.

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FAQ

What is a high electric meter reading?

Curious about whether your meter reading is higher than average? Energy companies consider 4,300 kWh electricity per year to be high. Dividing this by 12 gives us a rough monthly usage of 358 kWh. So if your monthly meter reading goes up by increments equal to or higher than this, you are classed as a high energy user.

How do I tell if electric meter is faulty?

If your meter seems to be reporting usage that is significantly higher or lower than your estimated energy consumption, there may be a fault with your meter. Try switching off everything in the home, then taking a meter reading. Then leave a device such as a fan heater on for one hour. Check the meter again. Unless the difference between your new and previous meter reading is roughly equal to the wattage of the device, your meter may be faulty. Your energy supplier will be able to test it for you.

If I have a faulty electric meter who is responsible?

Your energy supplier is responsible for maintaining your electric meter. If you believe there is a fault with your meter, it is up to them to test and rectify it.

How do I reset my electric meter?

If your prepayment meter should reset automatically when prices change. However, if you need to carry out a manual reset:

  • Press and hold the illuminated “B” button on your meter’s interface.
  • Press A twice, followed by B.

Updated on 11 Nov, 2022

William Dautel

Website manager

William is a content marketing specialist. After 3 years writing brand strategies he joined papernest to help create the best content to help people handle and save on their utilities.


Alexander Striano

Energy Specialist & Copywriter

Alex joined the papernest team as a SEO Project Manager Assistant for Broadband Plans. He has developed a real expertise on connectivity topics and works on delivering the best possible content to help you navigate your broadband in and outside your home.