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Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Danni Scott

When to submit meter reading ahead of energy bill price hike

The energy price cap will rise again in October according to regulator Ofgem, costing households hundreds if not thousands of pounds over the year. Taking meter readings is more important than ever as it could save you money during the cost of living crisis.

Last time the cap rose in April, money saving experts like Martin Lewis advised people to take a reading before the energy price increase. This is so you can give your provider an accurate number before the cost rises and have accurate fuel bills.

Consumers should follow this same logic and take a reading the day before the price rises to ensure they don’t get caught out. This means checking your meter on September 30 ready for the October 1 energy price cap increase.

Read more: Scots told to cut back on their energy use as UK Government performs U-turn

Taking your reading is simple as you open your meter and record the first five numbers shown from left to right. Ignore the red numbers and send the five numbers to your energy supplier.

Most energy providers have online systems or apps on which you can input your reading but if not make sure to call them. Carefully recording your monthly meter readings will ensure you are being charged correctly.

Speaking on his ITV show, in April Martin Lewis said: "That way you draw a line in the sand that says to your energy firm, I've only used this amount at the cheaper rate.” Having exact data means the company cannot estimate your usage and boost your charges.

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