Meter & Reads
Why meter readings matter
Submitting accurate and timely meter readings is vital for ensuring your business is billed correctly for the energy you actually use. Without real readings, suppliers may issue estimated bills, which often lead to overcharging or disputes down the line.
As your broker, Energies Direct can help you manage readings, ensure proper submissions, and catch mistakes early.
Types of meters & how to read them
Here’s a quick guide to typical meter types you might have, and tips on reading them correctly:
| Meter Type | How to Read | Notes / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Digital / Electronic | Read the numbers from left to right; ignore any digits in red or after a decimal point. The reading will show your total usage in kWh (kilowatt-hours). | Simple and straightforward. |
| Dial / Analogue (Clock-style dials) | Read each dial left to right; if a pointer is between two numbers, use the lower number. If it’s between 9 and 0, use 9. | Be careful with rounding down when the pointer is exactly on a number. |
| Dual-rate / Economy / Two-rate meters (R1 & R2) | These meters show two readings — R1 and R2 — representing your Day (Normal) and Night (Off-Peak) rates. Both readings are measured in kWh. Record each one carefully and label them clearly when submitting. | Useful for businesses with different tariffs for daytime and night usage. |
| Smart meters | Press the display button to view your reading(s). Depending on your meter, it may show one or two readings (e.g., R1 / R2) in kWh. Some smart meters automatically send readings to your supplier. | You can still check readings manually to confirm accuracy. |
When & how to submit your meter readings
| Scenario | What to Do | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly readings | Submit a reading near the end of each month (or as required by your contract). | Helps avoid estimation. |
| Switching supplier / renewing contract | Provide a reading as close as possible to the switch date. | Ensures the new supplier starts with a correct baseline. |
| Moving premises / leaving site | Submit a final reading on your move-out day. | Energies Direct already requests this when you move premises ( see here ). |
Ways to submit your meter reading:
Through your company’s online portal or email
By sending a photo of the meter (include serial number and date)
Via WhatsApp or text message (where supported)
We can configure processes that match your convenience and help you avoid missing deadlines.
What we can do for you (broker services around meter & reads)
As your energy broker, Energies Direct offers support to make meter reading management simple and reliable:
Automated reminder service — we’ll remind you when your reading is due
Meter reading validation — we cross-check submitted readings against historical usage
Fault & access support — we liaise with meter operators (MOP / MAM) if your meter is faulty or inaccessible
Smart / AMR / HH meter upgrades — we advise on the best metering technology for your business
- Data reporting & analytics — we aggregate your usage data to help track consumption trends and find savings
Common errors & how to avoid them
Recording digits after a decimal point or in red
Mixing up R1 (Day) and R2 (Night) readings
Forgetting to submit readings on time (leading to estimated bills)
Assuming smart meters always send accurate data (signal loss or errors can occur)
- Not labelling readings clearly for multi-rate meters
FAQs
Smart meters usually send readings automatically, but if communication fails or data isn’t received, manual readings may still be needed.
Your supplier may issue an estimated bill. Later adjustments can create cashflow or budgeting issues.
We can send reminders, validate your readings, and liaise with operators — but legally you (or your site manager) remain responsible for ensuring accuracy.