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Energy bills might not top your list of favourite reads, but knowing how to do a self meter reading can make a real difference. It helps keep your bill accurate, gives you a clearer picture of your energy use and puts you back in control. That’s a pretty powerful feeling.
If your meter hasn’t been read recently, or you just want to make sure your bill reflects what you have actually used, submitting a self meter reading is a bright idea.
Why do a self meter reading?
Sometimes a meter reader cannot access your meter. It could be because of locked gates, pets on patrol or weather getting in the way. When that happens, your bill may be based on an estimate.
By providing your own meter reading, you help make sure your bill is based on real usage rather than an estimate. It is also a great way to stay connected to how much energy your household is using. Knowledge is power and in this case, it is energy power.
Step 1: Find your meter
Your meter might be located in a few different places depending on your home:
- On an outside wall
- In a meter box near the street
- Inside your garage or laundry
- In a shared cupboard if you live in an apartment
If you are unsure, your bill or online account can help confirm the location. Make sure the area is safe and easy to access before you start.
Step 2: Know your meter type
Most homes will have one of these meter types:
- Digital electricity meter with numbers displayed on a screen
- Dial meter with a series of small clock style dials
- Gas meter showing gas usage in cubic metres
Each type is read slightly differently, but it is simpler than it looks.
Digital meter
Read the numbers from left to right and write down every digit shown on the screen.
Dial meter
Read the dials from left to right. If a pointer is between two numbers, record the lower number.
Gas meter
Only record the whole numbers before the decimal point. You can ignore any numbers after the decimal.
A handy tip is to take a quick photo of your meter once you have your reading. It is useful for double checking later and gives you peace of mind that you have captured it correctly.
Step 3: Double check your reading
Before submitting, take a moment to check the numbers you recorded. A small slip can lead to a big difference, so it is worth the extra glance. Think of it as giving your energy a final quality check.
Step 4: Submit your meter reading online
Once you have your reading ready, you can submit it online with EnergyAustralia.
Submit your meter reading here:
https://www.energyaustralia.com.au/home/bills-and-accounts/understand-your-meter/submit-meter-reading/register-your-meter-reading
You will be asked to enter your details, your meter reading and the date the reading was taken. Make sure your reading is recent, ideally within the last 30 days, so it can be used to update your bill.
After submission, your bill will be adjusted to reflect what you have actually used. That means no guesswork and no surprises.
A little effort that goes a long way
Doing a self meter reading does not take long, but it can make a big difference. It helps keep your bills accurate, builds awareness of your energy use and gives you confidence that you are paying for exactly what you use.
So next time you want to stay switched on to your energy, grab a pen, check your meter and submit your reading online. It is a simple step that puts the power firmly back in your hands.
