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How To Read Your Electric Meter

Below is our guide to reading common meters including clock dial, keypad and economy 7.

You can also access our guide to reading import/export meters >

Single Rate Meters

If you are prompted to enter one meter reading this means you have a single rate meter with a flat rate for your electricity all day. 

single rate digit meter

Digit Meters

For example reading is 28792:
Read from left to right
Ignore any numbers marked 1/10 or 1/100 or in red

digit meter

Keypad Meters

Press 9 on meter or freedom unit to display reading


Clock-type meters

Clock-Type Meters

For example reading is 38792:
Read dials from left to right
Ignore any numbers marked 1/10 or 1/100 or in red
If the pointer is between two numbers – give the lower number

Dual & Multi Rate Meters

If you are prompted to enter two or more meter readings this means you have a dual rate meter with different rates throughout the day.

For example, you may have a higher electricity rate at breakfast and tea-time but a lower rate over night. You will use electricity to heat water and for storage heaters.

dual rate meter

Digit Meters

Push button to scroll through the display:
Rate 1 or R1 for first read
Rate 2 or R2 for second read
TOTAL B for heating units (Multirate)


dual and multirate keypad meter

Keypad Meters

Push 3 on meter or freedom unit for first read
Push 3 again for second (or additional) reads