How to Read an Electric Meter | Homeowner Guide

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How to Read an Electric Meter (UK Guide)

If you want to keep on top of your electricity usage, avoid estimated bills, or switch suppliers, knowing how to read your electric meter is essential. It might look confusing at first, especially if it has dials or buttons, but once you know what to look for, it’s straightforward.

Different meters have different layouts — so we’ve broken it down by type.

1. Digital (Standard) Electric Meters


These are the most common types found in UK homes. They have a digital display showing five numbers, sometimes with one or more in red or after a decimal point.

How to read it:

  • Write down the first five numbers shown from left to right.

  • Ignore any numbers in red, after a decimal point, or after a space.

Example: If your meter shows 12345.6, the reading is 12345.

2. Dial Electric Meters


These are a bit trickier — they have a row of small clock-style dials.

How to read it:

  • Read the first five dials from left to right.

  • Ignore the last one (if there are six).

  • If the pointer is between two numbers, write down the lower number.

  • If the pointer is exactly on a number, look at the next dial to the right:

    • If the dial to the right has passed 0, use the number the pointer is on.

    • If it hasn't passed 0, use the lower number.

Tip: Take your time — it’s fiddly but gets easier with practice.

3. Smart Meters


Smart meters send readings automatically to your supplier, but you can still check your usage manually.

There are two types:

  • SMETS1 – First-generation

  • SMETS2 – More advanced and compatible across suppliers

To read a smart meter:

  • Press the display or ‘A’ button to cycle through the screens.

  • Look for “IMP KWH” or “Total Active Import” — that’s your reading.

  • Again, write down the first five numbers, ignoring any after the decimal point.

Your in-home display (IHD) also shows daily usage, cost, and more in real-time.

When Should You Take Meter Readings?

  • Every month, especially if you're on a variable tariff or don’t have a smart meter

  • Before switching suppliers

  • If asked by your supplier for billing

  • Before and after moving house

Regular readings ensure you're billed accurately and not based on estimated usage.

How to Submit Your Reading


You can send your reading via:

  • Your supplier’s website or app

  • Customer services (by phone)

  • Email or online portal (if set up)

Always check your latest bill or your supplier's website for instructions.

Final Thought


Reading your electric meter may seem daunting at first, but once you know what kind you have and what to ignore (decimals, red numbers), it’s easy. Accurate readings help you stay in control of your bills, prevent overpayments, and can even highlight changes in your energy use over time.