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. Follow these steps to do so:
Submit a self-meter read
1. Check if your estimate is accurate
To determine if you would like to submit a self-meter read for a revised invoice, how's how you can safely read your meter and compare:
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.
- Start by reading each dial from left to right.
- Record the number that the pointer is pointing to on each dial.
- If the pointer is between two numbers, note down the lower number.
- If the pointer is directly on a number, check the dial to the right.
- If the right-hand dial hasn't reached 0 or 1, record the lower number.
- 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
Type 1
The reading for this meter is 80842
- 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.
- If possible, consult the reference guide to figure out which screen to read.
- 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
- Press the display button to cycle through the reading options on the screen.
- 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
- This meter automatically cycles through each register.
- When sending a reading, send photos of every screen, including those with all zeros before the numbers.
Smart meter
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
2. Send us your self-read
Once you've read your meter and would like a revised invoice with accurate readings, please:
- Take a clear photo of your meter and send it to hello@energylocals.com.au along with your name and account number in the subject line. In the email please mention that you would like your latest estimated bill to be revised.
- Shortly after you'll get a confirmation email from our customer care team.
- Your bill will be updated, and a new one will be sent to you soon. You'll have 14 more days to make the payment.
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.