Meter readings are the only way for suppliers to make sure you’re accurately billed.
Meter readings are how suppliers calculate how much energy you have consumed and therefore how much they need to charge you. If a customer does not submit regular meter readings, suppliers have no choice but to estimate. This can result in you paying too much or too little for your energy.
In this article we explain:
- How are meter readings used to calculate my bill?
- What happens if I don't provide meter readings?
- How often do I need to submit meter readings?
- How do I submit meter readings?
How are meter readings used to calculate my bill?
Your bill is calculated based on how many units of energy you use, multiplied by the cost of each unit of energy, plus the daily standing charge. So if you use more energy in one month, your bill will be higher. If you use less energy in another month, your bill will be lower. Please bear in mind that your bill and direct debit are 2 different things.
The way the amount of energy you use is calculated is by subtracting your last meter reading from your most recent meter reading. Lets imagine your electricity meter reading submissions are as follows:
- 1st January: 1020kwh
- 1st February: 1120kwh
- 1st March: 1320kwh
The difference between 1120 and 1020 is 100, which means you have used 100kwh of electricity in January. The difference between 1320 and 1120 is 200 which means in February you used 200kwh of energy. The electricity bill for February would be double that of January.
What happens if I don't provide meter readings?
If you do not submit meter readings, your bill will be based on "estimated meter readings". All suppliers base this on the historical energy usage of your property, although different suppliers may use slightly different equations.
As they are estimates, there is a chance that they are charging you too much or too little for your energy. If you send a meter reading after a long time, the next bill will be updated to reflect your actual use.
How often do I need to submit meter readings?
Suppliers calculate your bill once a month. Therefore, if you are able to, you should submit your readings once a month also. If you are unable to your bill may not be accurate. No worries though! Once you are able to send meter readings, the next bill will be adjusted for any under or over payments.
How do I submit meter readings?
You can submit your meter readings through your Switchd dashboard! Just go to the meter reading page, submit your latest readings and it will be automatically passed on to your supplier.
