Ofgem’s energy price cap will rise in weeks but taking a meter reading on a key date can make sure you do not pay more than you need to
In just a few days, Ofgem will roll out its new energy price cap, spelling higher bills for the average household. The change will mean the typical dual fuel household paying by direct debit will see their energy bill go up to £1,758.
While the rise is just 0.2% on the current cap of £1,755, it will inevitably push up costs for most households, but there’s one savvy strategy that could help soften the blow. Energy customers are being encouraged to take accurate and timely meter readings to avoid paying over the odds for their electricity usage.
By taking an exact reading either on 31 December (the last day of the current energy rates), or on 1 January (the first day of the new rates), you can stop energy companies from guessing your energy consumption and charging you more. Plus, supplying precise meter readings could also come in handy if you need to challenge any dodgy charges on your bill or dispute unfair or incorrect billing.
It’s worth noting that it’s strictly against the law to deliberately give false readings to your energy company in a bid to save money – this is considered fraud. If your home is equipped with a smart meter, the readings will be taken automatically.
How to take a meter reading
Different types of meters require different methods of reading. It’s crucial to know what type of meter your home has so you can provide an almost perfect reading.
These meters will display five digits in black or white, potentially followed by one or more red digits. For this type of meter, you should note down the first five digits from left to right and disregard any other numbers.
Two-rate digital meter
Such meters will show two rows of digits. To read this meter, you should jot down both sets of numbers from the top and bottom rows, ignoring any digits displayed in red.
Dial meter
An electricity dial meter will have five or more dials that spin to point to a number between 0 and 9. Each dial on the meter will rotate in the opposite direction to its neighbour.
To read this meter, you should write down the first five dials from left to right, disregarding any red dials or dials labelled 1/10. If the pointer is located between two numbers, you should record the lower number – if it’s between 9 and 0, jot down 9.
If the pointer is directly over a number, you should note that number and underline it. Then, if the next dial is between 9 and 0, reduce the underlined number by 1.
What to do if you can’t submit a meter reading in time
On 1 October, many households will likely be trying to give their energy supplier an updated meter reading. This could cause a supplier’s website to crash due to high traffic volume.
Moreover, some energy customers might encounter a malfunctioning meter on the day of the reading, which could hinder you from giving accurate details. Luckily, it’s typically feasible to send your reading to your supplier at a later time.
Most suppliers permit a reading to be retroactively submitted for about a week, but it’s advisable to confirm their specific policy with them.