Households urged to check smart meters before energy rise

Households are being advised to check their smart meters before energy bills increase next week. Many homes use smart meters to automatically send energy usage data to suppliers. However, recent data shows that about one in ten smart meters may not be functioning correctly and could be stuck in "dumb" mode. This means those households might get incorrect bills and could end up paying too much. Starting on April 1, the energy price cap will rise, leading to a typical energy bill increase of £111 per year, bringing the total to £1,849 for households using gas and electricity. It is critical for consumers to ensure their smart meter readings are accurate. Chris Shaw, the chief executive of Utility Bidder, warns that a faulty smart meter can result in overcharging or undercharging. He also notes that incorrect readings could lead to communication problems with energy suppliers. This may mean relying on estimated bills, which can be frustrating and financially concerning. Smart meters connect to a secure network and do not use Wi-Fi. They update usage data frequently for better accuracy. Consumers should check their smart meters if they notice unusually high bills, as there may be faults to address. To identify issues, users can look for a blank screen on their smart meter, which indicates a problem. They should also check their energy bills. Readings should be marked as "smart"; if they are marked with an "e," they are estimates. There are tools available to help check if a smart meter is functioning correctly. If users suspect their smart meter is faulty, they should contact their energy supplier. Suppliers are required to fix or replace faulty meters. Users can also request an independent test, although there may be costs involved if the meter is found to be functioning properly. Additionally, as the clocks move forward for British Summer Time this weekend, households should be aware that smart meters do not automatically adjust for the time change. This could affect those on dual rate tariffs or those whose usage is time-sensitive. It's important for consumers to verify their off-peak hours with their supplier, as these times will shift due to the clock change.