Understanding your commercial energy usage is crucial for making informed decisions about your business’s energy consumption and costs. By knowing how to read your gas and electric meters, you can accurately track your energy consumption and identify potential areas for savings.
Reading Your Electric Meter
Traditional Dial Meters (non-smart):
An electricity meter typically has 5 or more dials. Each dial has numbers from 0 to 9. The dials rotate in opposite directions to each other. Note the direction of the first dial as this will determine the direction of the other dials.
To read the meter:
- Identify the dials: Each dial represents a specific unit of measurement, typically kilowatts per hour (kWh).
- Read the dials: Start with the rightmost dial and read the number it’s closest to. If the pointer is between two numbers, read the lower one.
- Note the direction: The direction of the dial’s rotation indicates whether you’re using or returning energy.
- Record the reading: Write down the numbers in the correct order.
Digital Meters (smart):
A digital electricity meter, also known as a smart meter, is much easier to read. It displays your current energy usage directly on a digital screen, usually in kilowatt-hours (kWh). To read your smart meter, simply look at the display and note the number shown. This number represents the amount of electricity you’ve used.
To read the meter:
- Locate the display: The digital display will show your current energy usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
- Record the reading: Write down the displayed number.
Reading Your Gas Meter
Traditional Dial Meters (non-smart):
A traditional gas meter typically has four dials, each numbered from 0 to 9. The dials rotate in opposite directions to each other, making it important to note the direction of the first dial before reading the others. The meter will display the amount of gas consumed in cubic meters.
To read the meter:
- Identify the dials: Similar to electric meters, gas meters have multiple dials, each representing a different unit of measurement.
- Read the dials: Start with the rightmost dial and read the number it’s closest to. If the pointer is between two numbers, read the lower one.
- Note the direction: The direction of the dial’s rotation indicates whether you’re using gas.
- Record the reading: Write down the numbers in the correct order.
Digital Meters (smart):
A digital gas meter is a modern device that replaces traditional dial meters. It features a digital display that shows your current gas usage in cubic meters. Some digital meters have additional features like in-home displays that provide real-time usage information and alerts.
To read the meter:
- Locate the display: The digital display will show your current gas usage in cubic meters.
- Record the reading: Write down the displayed number.
Submitting Your Meter Readings
Once you’ve recorded your meter readings, you can submit them to your energy supplier through various methods, such as:
- Online portal: Log into your supplier’s online account and enter the readings.
- Mobile app: Use your supplier’s mobile app to submit readings.
- Phone: Call your supplier’s customer service number and provide the readings.
- Post: Send a written meter reading to your supplier.
By accurately reading and submitting your meter readings, you can ensure that your energy bills are correct and avoid potential discrepancies.
Remember: If you’re unsure about reading your meters or have any questions, contact your energy supplier for assistance.
