If your electricity meter shows multiple readings, it's because you're on a tariff with different rates for different times of day. The most common example is Economy 7, which has separate rates for day and night electricity.
Your meter tracks how much electricity you use during each rate period, so you'll see separate readings for each one.
What tariffs use multiple readings?
The most common tariffs that show multiple readings are:
Economy 7:
- Two rates: day and night
- Shows two readings: one for day usage, one for night usage
- Night rate is typically cheaper (usually 12am–7am)
Economy 10:
- Three rates: day, night, and afternoon
- Shows three readings
- Offers 10 hours of cheaper electricity across different times
Other time-of-use tariffs:
- Some suppliers offer tariffs with peak and off-peak rates
- These will also show multiple readings
If you have multiple readings, your meter will display them in different ways depending on the type:
Digital meters:
- May show "Rate 1" and "Rate 2" (or "Day" and "Night")
- Press a button to cycle through the different rates
- Each rate will show its own reading
Dial meters:
- May have two sets of dials side by side
- One set for day, one for night
- Read each set separately
Smart meters:
- Usually show all readings on the display
- You can scroll through to see each rate
- The in-home display will show usage for each rate
If you're unsure, check your meter's instruction manual or contact your supplier for guidance.
Which reading should I use?
When submitting meter readings, you need to provide all the readings your meter shows. For example:
- If you're on Economy 7, submit both the day reading and the night reading
- If you're on Economy 10, submit all three readings
Your supplier needs all readings to calculate your bill correctly, as each rate has a different price per kWh.
How are my bills calculated?
Your supplier uses all your readings to calculate your bill:
- They work out how much you've used for each rate period
- They multiply each by its unit rate (day rate × day usage, night rate × night usage)
- They add them together along with your standing charge
For example, if you used:
- 200 kWh during the day at 35p per kWh = £70
- 300 kWh during the night at 18p per kWh = £54
- Standing charge: 50p per day × 30 days = £15
- Total: £139
What if I only see one reading?
If your meter only shows one reading, you're likely on a standard single-rate tariff. This means:
- You pay the same rate for electricity regardless of when you use it
- You only need to submit one reading
- Your bill calculation is simpler (usage × unit rate + standing charge)
Can I switch to a single-rate tariff?
Yes, if you have a multi-rate meter and want to switch to a standard tariff:
- You may need a new meter installed (your supplier can arrange this)
- There may be costs involved in changing meters
- You should check whether you'd save money first - multi-rate tariffs can be cheaper if you use a lot of energy during the cheaper hours
What if my readings seem wrong?
If your meter readings don't make sense:
- Check you're reading the right rate - Make sure you're looking at the correct display
- Check the units - Readings are usually in kWh
- Compare with your bill - Your bill should show which readings were used
- Contact your supplier - They can help you understand your meter and readings
Summary
- Multiple readings appear on meters for time-of-use tariffs like Economy 7 or Economy 10
- Each reading corresponds to a different rate period (day, night, etc.)
- You need to submit all readings when providing meter readings to your supplier
- Your bill is calculated using all readings, with each rate period charged at its own unit rate
- If you only see one reading, you're on a standard single-rate tariff
- Check your meter's display or contact your supplier if you're unsure how to read it
