Reading the electricity meter correctly: Step-by-step guide to the correct meter reading

How to find the right meter reading – whether analogue, digital or smart

Want to read your electricity meter but aren't sure how to do it for your meter type? No problem! In this guide, we'll show you how to easily find the correct meter reading, whether you have a classic Ferraris meter, a digital meter, or a smart meter.

Why should you read the electricity meter?

A correctly read electricity meter reading is crucial for:

• an exact electricity bill
• the change of provider
• the annual statement
• your own consumption control

Especially when reading the meter yourself, it is important not to forget any number or report too much.

How to read your electricity meter correctly

Reading the meter is quick and easy if you know what to look out for:

• Find your electricity meter: The electricity meter is usually located in the basement, hallway or utility room
• Prepare yourself: Have a flashlight or your smartphone ready to read the display
• Note the date and time: Make a note of exactly when you take the reading
• Reading the meter reading: Read only the numbers before the decimal point or before a colored border

Overview: Meter types and how to read them

Meter types in detail

1. Ferraris counter (mechanical with turntable)

The Ferraris meter is one of the so-called three-phase meters, which used to be standard in many households.

Features:

• Black case
• Visible turntable
• Number roll with mostly red decimal place

Here's how to read it: Only write down the numbers before the decimal point; the decimal place is ignored. If the meter shows 12345.6, write down 12345 kilowatt hours.

2. Digital meters (modern measuring devices)

Digital electricity meters, often referred to as electronic electricity meters or digital electricity meters, are the current standard in many households.

Features:

• Display with numeric display
• Control button for switching between displays
• Unit “kWh” visible

Here's how to read it: Press the button on the device until the consumption is displayed. Write down the displayed kilowatt-hour number. If your meter distinguishes between HT (high-rate) and NT (low-rate), you'll need to read and write down both values ​​separately.

For more convenience in everyday life: Would you like to conveniently track your electricity consumption in real time on your smartphone? With the electricity reader, it's easy: All you need is a power outlet and Wi-Fi near your meter box. Once integrated, the electricity reader delivers all the readings released by your digital meter in a clear format directly to your phone.

3. Smart Meters (intelligent electricity meters)

Smart meters are networked digital meters with automatic consumption transmission.

Features:

• Changing display with measured values
  
• Connection to a communication module (often via app or web portal)
  
• Display 1.8.0 = consumption, 2.8.0 = feed-in (e.g. for PV systems)

Here's how to read it: For 1.8.0, enter only the digits before the decimal point; this is the consumption. For 2.8.0, enter only the digits before the decimal point; this is the feed-in.

Smart complements smart: You can also use the electricity reader with a built-in smart meter. Simply attach the electricity reader directly to the electricity meter, plug it in near the meter box, connect it to the Wi-Fi, and you'll see your electricity consumption live on your smartphone.

Did you know?
Smart meters typically only send their data once a day, but the electricity meter shows you your consumption in real time. This way, you can immediately identify energy guzzlers and keep track of your usage at all times.

Frequently asked questions about reading the electricity meter

• How do I know which meter I have?

Ferraris counter = mechanical turntable
Digital measuring device = electronic display, no mains connection
Smart Meter = electronic display with network module or app connection

• What numbers do I have to read on the meter reading?

Only the numbers before the decimal point or the colored line. The decimal place is usually not required.

• How often do I have to report the meter reading?

At least once a year, usually at the request of your electricity provider or grid operator. The current status is also necessary if you change provider.

• Can I also submit the meter reading via photo?

Yes, this is even recommended to prevent misunderstandings or questions.