How do I read my meter? (electricity)
- 2 Minutes to read
How do I read my meter? (electricity)
- 2 Minutes to read
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There are several types of electricity meters which could be used at your property. So please check this information for how to read your type of meter.
Digital and odometer meters
Read the meter numbers from left to right, ignoring any numbers after the decimal point or that are in red.
In this example the meter reading is 46043.
Dial meters
Read the dials from left to right, ignoring any red dials. Each dial turns in the opposite direction to the one before it. Before you read your dial meter, check the direction of your dials as they might not be the same as this example, but they all start from zero.
- If the pointer is between two numbers, always take the lower number e.g. if between 4 and 5, take 4 as on the first dial below.
- If the pointer is directly over a number, use that one.
- If the pointer falls between 9 and 0, write down 9 (think of the 0 as 10) then reduce the reading you've already noted for the dial on its left by one. For example, if you originally recorded 5, reduce it to 4.
In this example the meter reading is 44928
Advanced meters (smart meters)
Some advanced electricity meters have a cycle display button (to the right of the screen) that you need to press to take readings, while some automatically scroll through the displays. Either way, look for screens that show the letters kWh. Read the numbers from left to right, up to the decimal point. Also note any description displayed on the screen relating to your rate as if you have more than one rate (like day/night, or for more than one dwelling on the property), you will need to take a reading for each rate.
In this example the meter reading is 76 for the day rate.
Important notice about meter upgrade due to shut down of 2G and 3G mobile networks
Spark and One NZ (formally Vodafone) are shutting down their 2G and 3G mobile networks (3G end of 2024 and 2G in 2025). This may affect your electricity meter, and your meter will need to either be replaced or have communication module upgraded. This is a technology upgrade so you can continue to receive accurate billing and access meter consumption data from us. The upgrade will ensure that your electricity meter continues to communicate on the 4G and 5G networks.
If your meter's communication module requires an upgrade, you will receive an email or letter at least 10 days in advance of commencing work.
** Please send us a secure message in MyMegatel app if you have questions or concerns about this.