How to Read Your Electric Meter
Last updated: 30 September 2026
Read the numbers from left to right ignoring any numbers in red or after the decimal point.
Overview
Reading your electric meter is one of the most searched household questions in the UK. This guide covers reading single rate and economy 7 meters.
Step-by-Step Fix
Before beginning any repair, ensure you have isolated power or water supplies. Clear your workspace, gather standard hand tools, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- First identify which type of electric meter you have. The most common types in the UK are single rate meters economy 7 meters and smart meters. Single rate meters have one row of numbers while economy 7 meters have two rows one for day rate and one for night rate.
- For a single rate meter read the numbers from left to right. Ignore any numbers in red or any numbers after a decimal point. These represent fractions of a kilowatt hour and are not needed for your reading. Write down the five main numbers.
- For an economy 7 meter you will see two rows of numbers. The top row is usually the day rate and the bottom row is the night rate. Some meters label these as normal and low. Read both rows from left to right ignoring any red numbers.
- If you have a digital meter the numbers are displayed on an LCD screen. Press the button to cycle through the displays if needed. The main reading is usually labelled total or kWh. Write down the numbers exactly as they appear.
- If you have a smart meter the reading is displayed on the in home display unit. You can also access your readings through your energy supplier app or online account. Smart meters send readings automatically so you do not need to submit them manually.
- To submit your reading log into your energy supplier account online or via their app. Enter the numbers exactly as you read them without any decimal points. If you have an economy 7 meter you will need to submit both day and night readings.
- If you are unsure which numbers to read take a photo of your meter and compare it to the examples on your energy supplier website. Most suppliers have guides showing exactly which numbers to submit for each meter type.
- If you cannot find your meter or cannot read it contact your energy supplier. They can help you locate your meter and explain how to read it. If your meter is faulty they will arrange a replacement.
Common Symptoms & Diagnostic Resolutions
Review the common error codes and operating symptoms below to quickly identify the root cause of the fault before ordering replacement parts.
| Symptom / Code | Likely Root Cause | Recommended Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Meter display blank | No power to meter or display faulty | Check the mains supply. If the meter display is blank contact your energy supplier as the meter may need replacing. |
| Numbers keep changing | Normal meter operation or smart meter cycling | Wait for the display to settle. On digital meters the reading may cycle through different displays. Press the button to cycle to the main reading. |
| Cannot find meter | Meter located outside or in communal area | Check outside in a meter box on an external wall or in a communal cupboard. Contact your supplier if you still cannot find it. |
| Reading does not match bill | Incorrect reading submitted or meter fault | Double check the numbers you submitted. If the reading is correct contact your supplier to query the bill. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I read my electric meter?
For a single rate meter read the numbers from left to right ignoring any numbers in red or after the decimal point. For economy 7 meters read both the day and night rows. Smart meters display readings automatically.
What do the red numbers on my meter mean?
Red numbers represent fractions of a kilowatt hour. They are not needed for your meter reading and should be ignored. Only the black or white numbers are used for billing.
How often should I submit a meter reading?
You should submit a meter reading monthly or at least quarterly. Regular readings ensure your bills are accurate and prevent estimated bills from building up a large credit or debit balance.
Can I read my smart meter manually?
Yes smart meters have a display that shows your current reading. You can also access readings through your supplier app or online account. Smart meters send readings automatically so manual submission is usually not required.