What is a meter reading and why are they important?

A meter reading shows the amount of energy (in kilowatt-hours for electricity or cubic metres/feet for gas) you’ve used over a specific period. Suppliers use these readings to determine how much energy you’ve consumed, ensuring your bill is accurate and reflects your actual usage rather than an estimate.

👉 Tip: Regular meter readings can help you track your energy consumption and spot any unusual spikes, which may indicate an issue with your appliances or your meter.

Why are meter readings important?

• Accurate billing: Meter readings ensure your energy bill reflects the energy you’ve actually used. Without a reading, your supplier may estimate your usage, which could lead to higher or lower bills than you expect.
• Avoiding estimated bills: Taking regular readings and submitting them to your energy supplier helps avoid estimated bills, which can be based on previous usage rather than your current consumption.
• Monitoring your usage: Regular readings give you a clear picture of how much energy you're using and whether you need to adjust your habits to save money.