Here’s all you need to know to identify the type of reading used for your bill.
1. What is an actual meter reading?
An actual meter reading is a measurement taken directly from your energy meter, showing the exact amount of electricity or gas you’ve used. These readings are the most accurate way to calculate your bill, as they reflect your true energy consumption.
👉 Tip: If your bill is based on an actual reading, it will show the meter reading date and the exact usage measured on that date.
2. What is an estimated meter reading?
An estimated meter reading is based on your previous usage patterns rather than an actual measurement from your meter. Energy suppliers often use estimated readings when they haven't received a recent reading from you or when access to your meter is not possible.
⚡ Warning: Estimated readings may not accurately reflect your current energy use, leading to either higher or lower bills than expected. It's a good idea to check your bill to ensure you're being charged correctly.
3. How to tell if your bill is based on an actual or estimated reading?
Look for the reading details: On your bill, there should be a section showing your meter readings, including the start and end readings for the billing period. If the bill shows specific numbers with a reading date and the word ‘actual’ next to them, then it’s based on an actual meter reading.
Here’s an example of a bill showing an Actual Meter Reading (A or S):
In this bill, we can see a combination of smart meter readings (S) and estimated readings. This is because the supplier is taking smart meter readings at regular intervals and estimating between them.
Check for the Estimate label: You’ll find it right next to the reading. It’s common for estimated readings to appear when the supplier hasn’t received an actual reading from you.
💡 Did you know?: If your bill doesn’t show any reading details, it’s most likely based on an estimate.
Here’s an example of a bill showing an estimated meter reading (Estimate):
Several reasons can lead to your bill being estimated, including:
- You haven’t submitted a recent meter reading.
- The energy supplier couldn’t access your meter.
- You’re on a plan where readings are taken at set intervals, and the supplier hasn't received one recently.
💡 Did you know? Estimated readings are often based on your past energy usage patterns, so they might not reflect your current habits.
5. How to avoid estimated bills
- Take regular meter readings: If you’re able to, take regular readings of your meter and submit them to us. This will ensure your bill is based on actual usage.
- Schedule a meter reading: If your meter is in a location that is difficult to access, or if you’re unable to submit readings yourself, you can contact your supplier to arrange for a meter reading to be taken.
- If you notice that your bill is based on an estimated reading, and you have an actual reading to provide, submit it to us as soon as possible.
- If your energy usage has changed significantly since the last actual reading, it’s especially important to correct an estimated reading, as this can help you avoid overpaying or underpaying.
⚡ Warning: If you don’t submit a reading, the next bill may again be estimated, leading to further discrepancies.
7. Can estimated bills be corrected?
Yes! If you believe your estimated bill is incorrect, you can provide a current meter reading to us and your supplier will adjust your bill accordingly.
👉 Tip: It's always best to check your meter and compare the actual reading with the estimated reading to see if there are any discrepancies.