Energy meter reading day has been and gone, with the next one coming on New Year's Eve. But, if you haven't sent a reading to your supplier since energy prices went up, we would still urge you to do so.
Today, (Tuesday 1 October), the Ofgem energy price cap has rocketed 10%. For the average household on a standard variable tariff (SVT), this means bills will go up £149 a year (£12.50 per month) compared to the previous price cap.
It could be followed by more of the same in January 2025, when energy prices are expected to remain at a similar rate. You may be able to guard yourself against the hikes by switching to a fixed rate deal - although this could leave you exposed to any future price drops, given bills appear to have peaked for now.
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The situation means its key to keep tabs on your energy usage, regardless of whether or not you have a smart meter. And, by taking a meter reading, you can make sure you won't get overcharged. So, how do you take one?
What is energy meter reading day?
Energy meter reading day is an initiative that aims to get people to submit meter readings either on or slightly before price cap changes.
Suppliers work out your bill in one of two ways. They either take your smart meter readings, or your submitted readings, and base what you pay directly on your usage. Or, if you don't have a smart meter and don't submit readings, they will estimate how much you should pay.
The latter option is not ideal, given it could mean you're paying more than you should be for your energy. Even if the figure comes in lower, it could land you with a large bill at a later date.
By submitting a meter reading either close to the new price cap date, your energy company won't be able to charge you at the higher rate for any units that you used on the lower rate. So, by taking a meter reading you’re ensuring you’re not overcharged.
It’s generally a good idea to take meter readings down and submit them every month anyway - particularly given smart meters can be glitchy. You don’t need to worry about doing so if your smart meter is working properly in smart mode, you’re on a fixed-rate tariff, or you have a prepayment meter.
How do I take an energy meter reading?
Generally, to take a reading, you will need to send in five numbers to your supplier. On a single-rate meter (the most common kind), these are generally the first ones you come across when reading the number from left to right.
Most meters helpfully have a red zone, which includes numbers you do not have to record. But they can look a bit different. For example, a dial meter may point to several numbers on different faces. These still need to be read from left to right.
The process is a bit simpler with a functional smart meter, as the digital display should give you the relevant numbers fairly easily.
Once you have your reading, head to your supplier's website or app. They will usually have a section where you can give them your meter reading. You can also ring them to submit one - but be aware that there could be many other people doing the same thing this weekend, so wait times may be longer than usual.
The next energy meter reading day will fall on or slightly before 1 January 2025, as this is when the next price cap will kick in.
HOW TO CUT YOUR ENERGY BILLS
At present, the best way to cut your bills is to lower your consumption. Gareth Kloet, energy spokesperson for Go.Compare Energy, says: "Trying to reduce your energy consumption will help minimise costs in the short and longer term, and will ultimately pay dividends.
“There are things you can do around the home to save energy, including making sure you’re not leaving devices in standby mode, buying energy-efficient appliances, swapping baths for showers and trying not to turn the thermostat right up as soon as the temperature drops outside."
He adds: “If you are struggling to make payments and are concerned about energy bills, always talk to your energy provider in the first instance, as they have a duty to help. Do not be tempted to skip payments or just not pay – get in touch with them and they will discuss a payment plan with you.”
To help you keep energy bills low, check out our top tips on 13 ways to reduce your energy costs. If you're interested in the best ways to improve your energy efficiency and reduce costs, we explore radiators vs electric heaters, heated airers vs tumble dryers, and wood burning stove vs central heating.
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