To read an electric meter, the method depends on the type of meter you have. Here are the main types and how to read each:

1. Digital (Electronic) Meter

• Look at the electronic display which shows a series of numbers.
• Write down the first 5 numbers from left to right.
• Ignore any numbers in red or after a decimal point.
• If your meter has multiple rates (like Economy 7), press the button to cycle through readings and record each rate separately

2. Dial Meter (Analogue)

• These meters have 5 or more dials, each with a pointer turning clockwise or anticlockwise alternately.
• Read the dials from left to right.
• For each dial, write down the number the pointer has just passed (if between two numbers, record the lower one; if between 9 and 0, write 9).
• Ignore any dials marked in red or with fractions like 1/10

3. Smart Meter

• Press the relevant button (often labeled A or B) to wake the screen.
• Cycle through the display options to find the reading labeled “kWh” or “IMP” for electricity.
• For meters with multiple tariffs, take readings for each rate shown (e.g., R1 and R2).
• Ignore numbers after the decimal point

Additional Tips

• Always record the numbers exactly as displayed or indicated by the pointers.
• If the meter has buttons, follow the instructions on the screen or meter label to navigate readings.
• Subtract your previous reading from the current reading to find your electricity usage over the period

By following these steps based on your meter type, you can accurately read your electric meter for billing or monitoring purposes.