Reading your meter

The numbers on electronic and digital displays should always be read from left to right. Red numbers, or numbers after a decimal point, should be ignored.

If you want to work out how much gas you use, write down the numbers and take a note of the date. The next time you take a reading, subtract the second reading from the first and you will know how many units you have used in the period since you took your first reading.

The same principle applies for reading dial meters. These should also be read from left to right, ignoring the final (usually red) dial. Write down the number closest to each pointer. If the pointer is between two numbers, write down the lower number, but if the pointer is between 9 and 0, write down 9.

Prepayment meters normally display the amount of credit remaining for use. To obtain a reading from a prepayment meter, you will have to press a button (this may be marked ’A’) on the meter to change the digital display. Pressing the button repeatedly will allow you to cycle through the display screens. Every prepayment meter provides a range of information but all are configured slightly differently. However, most use letters to count the display screens and include displays for:

•current credit;
•last credit (most recent amount topped up. Displays on some meters may also show how much was paid towards gas consumption, emergency credit repayment and debt repayment);
•total credit accepted – ie, amount topped up onto meter;
•reading;
•price per unit;
•standing charge;
•amount available for emergency credit;
•debt repayment level (if appropriate);
•debt remaining.

Note: you may have to insert your key/card/token to view all the displays.