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  4. Everything You Needed to Know About Smart Meters: Part Two

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Energy & Sustainability

Everything You Needed to Know About Smart Meters: Part Two

Last week, we looked at what smart meters are and how they work. In this second part, we focus on one of the most common questions homeowners and tenants ask: do you still need to send meter readings if you have a smart meter? We’ll also cover what to do when things go wrong.

Last week, we looked at what smart meters are and how they work. In this second part, we focus on one of the most common questions homeowners and tenants ask: do you still need to send meter readings if you have a smart meter? We’ll also cover what to do when things go wrong.

Do you still need to send meter readings?

In most cases, no. If your smart meter is working correctly and connected in what’s known as “smart mode”, it will automatically send readings to your energy supplier. Your bills should then be based on actual usage rather than estimates.

However, smart meters are not completely hands-off in every situation.

When you might still need to send readings

Your smart meter isn’t sending data

Sometimes a smart meter stops communicating with your supplier. This does not mean it has stopped measuring your usage, but your supplier may not be receiving the data. When this happens, bills may revert to estimates and you may be asked to submit readings manually.

If this happens:

  • take manual readings for both gas and electricity
  • submit them to your supplier
  • report the issue and ask what steps are being taken to restore smart mode

You’ve just moved home or switched supplier

Even with smart meters, it’s wise to take opening readings when you move into a property or change supplier. This protects you from being billed for energy used by someone else and gives you a clear starting point.

Your supplier requests a check reading

Suppliers may occasionally ask for a manual reading to confirm accuracy, especially if there has been a billing issue or unusual usage pattern.

You don’t have smart meters for both fuels

Some homes have a smart electricity meter but a traditional gas meter, or vice versa. In these cases, readings may still be required for the non-smart meter.

How often do smart meters send readings?

Most smart meters send readings automatically at least once a month. Some tariffs, such as time-of-use deals, may require more frequent data sharing to work correctly.

You can usually check whether your readings are automatic by looking at your bill. If it says “estimated”, something may not be working properly.

What to do if you keep getting estimated bills

If you’re receiving estimated bills despite having a smart meter:

  • submit a manual reading to correct the bill
  • contact your supplier and report the issue
  • keep records of contact and meter readings

If the problem isn’t resolved, you can follow the supplier’s complaints process and escalate to the Energy Ombudsman if needed.

Smart meters are designed to remove the hassle of regular meter readings, but they are not completely set-and-forget. Knowing how to check your bills, take a manual reading, and spot problems can help you avoid estimated charges and billing disputes.

Used properly, smart meters should make managing your energy simpler, fairer, and more transparent. If you’re concerned about your smart meters or think you may be getting inaccurate bills, contact your energy supplier. For more tips, follow TrustATrader on Facebook or Instagram.

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