Do you need to do anything with an estimated bill?

 

What is an estimated meter reading?

If you've received a bill from us with an estimated meter reading, no need to worry. This simply means we've had to calculate your energy usage based on your past consumption.

Why did I get an estimated bill?

There are a few reasons this might happen:

• You've joined with a basic meter: If you have a basic meter, we may estimate your first bill so we can start supplying you with fair electricity earlier, without waiting for a quarterly meter reading. It might mean a lower final bill from your old provider and a higher initial bill from us. But don't worry, this is usually a one-time thing. Future bills will be based on your actual usage.
• Accessibility issues: The meter may be located in a difficult area to access, such as behind a locked gate or in a hard-to-see location.
• Safety concerns: The meter reader may have deemed it unsafe to access the meter. Maybe due to a dangerous entry, poor weather conditions, or a scary dog.

To help avoid estimated readings, make sure your meter is easy to reach and safe for the meter reader. You can also check your bill for the next scheduled meter reading date to help you prepare in advance.

Important for Solar Panels: If you have solar panels, keep the inverter off until your basic meter is replaced to avoid estimated bills for "illegal consumption" - it really upsets the network companies.

To reduce the risk of future estimates we recommend you install a Smart Meter. Smart meters allow remote readings, so no more manual readings are needed, and they allow you to track your electricity usage online. To find out more about installing a smart meter please contact us.

What should I do if my bill has an estimate?

You don't need to do anything, but if you would prefer an accurate reading for your invoice, you can submit a self-read to our Aussie-based team. We'll reissue your bill with the updated reading at no charge. 

How to submit a self meter read:

1. Check Your Estimated Bill: To ensure your bill is accurate, compare your meter reading to the one shown on your bill. Follow the steps below, and if there's a significant difference, proceed with the next steps.
2. Take a clear photo: Ensure the photo clearly includes the meter number and current reading.
3. Proof of date: Make sure the image includes the date, either by having a newspaper, receipt, or through the image properties.
4. Submit the photo and your details: Use this form to upload your photo and submit your reading.
5. Receive confirmation: You will receive an email from our customer care team shortly after submission.
6. Bill update: Your bill will be updated, and a new one will be sent to you. You will have 14 days to make the payment.

 

Here's how to read your meter:

Electricity

Basic Meters

Dial Meter
Read each dial from left to right and record the numbers that are displaying If the pointer is between two numbers, record the lower number.

Clock Face meters
These have 4-5 clock face dials that record the customer's consumption.

1. Start by reading each dial from left to right.
2. Record the number that the pointer is pointing to on each dial.
3. If the pointer is between two numbers, note down the lower number.
4. If the pointer is directly on a number, check the dial to the right.
5. If the right-hand dial hasn't reached 0 or 1, record the lower number.
6. If the right-hand dial is at 0 or 1, simply record the number the pointer is on.

The reading on the example meter below is 18453.

 

Digital meters

Please note, for all digital meters, the network are required to attend the site to obtain a new reading

Type 1 

The reading for this meter is 80842

1. Start by pressing the 'Display' button to access the reading options on the screen. You might need to press it several times to find the right screen.
2. If possible, consult the reference guide to figure out which screen to read.
3. If you're sending us a reading, remember to send photos of every screen, including the ones with all zeros before the numbers.

Type 2

The reading for this meter is 001164

1. Press the display button to cycle through the reading options on the screen.
2. If you're sending a reading, be sure to send photos of every screen, including the ones with all zeros before the numbers.

Type 5

The meter reading for this meter is 004323

1. This meter automatically cycles through each register.
2. When sending a reading, send photos of every screen, including those with all zeros before the numbers.

Smart meter 

Please note, self reads cannot be accepted for smart meters. If you would like to contest your usage, please contact us. 

Model mk7a - One phase, two element

• 01 - The current date and time
• 03* - Energy used
• 07* - Energy used for hot water
• 13* - Energy sent to the grid
• 43 - This register should show zero
• 53 - Total energy used
• 63 - Total energy sent to the grid

*note that some meters may not have all these registers 

 

Model MK7C 

• 01 – The current date and time
• 03 – Energy that has been used
• 13 – Energy sent to the grid

Model MK10D

 

• 01 – The current date and time
• 03 – Energy that has been used
• 13 – Energy sent to the grid

To reduce the risk of future estimates we recommend you consider getting a Smart Meter. Smart meters allow remote readings, so no more manual readings are needed, and they allow you to track your electricity usage online. To find out more about installing a smart meter please contact us.

To speak with a member of our Aussie-based team about your estimated meter read, please don't hesitate to contact us at hello@energylocals.com.au or 1300 693 637, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM AEST.

Gas

Metric Meter: Record the numbers from left to right. Example reading: 2932.

Dial (Imperial) Meter: Record each dial's number from left to right. If a pointer falls between two numbers, record the lower number. Example reading: 3032.