RTS meter warning: understanding the phase-out

If you have received a warning about your Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meter, it indicates that your energy setup requires an update. The technology behind these meters is being phased out, prompting a mandatory replacement process. This guide explains what an RTS meter warning means for your household, why these changes are happening, and the straightforward steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition to a modern energy experience.

Managing your energy should be simple and transparent. Once your RTS meter has been replaced with a smart meter, you can switch to Fuse Energy for a digital-first experience that puts you in control of your usage and bills. Click here to see how easy it is to switch.

What is an RTS meter and why the warning?

RTS meters have been a feature of UK homes for decades, particularly for those on multi-rate electricity tariffs. However, the system they rely on is now obsolete.

Understanding your radio teleswitch service meter

An RTS meter uses a longwave radio signal to automatically switch between different electricity tariff rates, such as peak and off-peak periods. This system was particularly beneficial for households with electric heating or hot water systems, like Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs, allowing them to charge during cheaper, off-peak hours. These meters often controlled when heating and hot water systems turned on and off. You might have an RTS meter if you have electric heating, are on a multi-rate tariff, or have a separate box near your electricity meter labelled "Radio Teleswitch" or "Radio Telemeter". You can learn more about specific tariffs like Economy 7 to understand how they work.

The impending shutdown of the RTS signal

The technology underpinning the RTS system is outdated and has reached the end of its operational life. As a result, the longwave radio signal that controls these meters is being switched off. This industry-wide phase-out began on 30 June 2025. The process is managed in phases, meaning different areas and meters are being affected at different times.

What an RTS meter warning means for you

Receiving an RTS meter warning indicates that your current energy meter will soon cease to function as intended, necessitating a replacement. This is a mandatory upgrade to prevent potential disruptions to your energy supply and billing.

Impact on your multi-rate tariff and billing

Once the RTS signal is switched off, your meter will no longer be able to accurately switch between peak and off-peak rates. This could lead to several issues, including inaccurate billing, as your supplier might struggle to determine your usage during different tariff periods. Crucially, you could lose access to your cheaper off-peak electricity rates, potentially resulting in significantly higher energy bills if your heating or hot water systems continue to operate during what were previously off-peak times. In some cases, heating and hot water systems controlled by RTS meters could stop working correctly, or even remain permanently on or off.

The mandate for replacement

The replacement of RTS meters is not optional; it is a mandatory, industry-wide initiative regulated by Ofgem. Energy suppliers have a regulatory obligation to replace these meters with smart meters. Delaying this upgrade could lead to inaccurate billing or the loss of your off-peak electricity rates as the old system becomes inoperable. Furthermore, you cannot switch to a new energy supplier while you still have an RTS meter, as it is considered an unsupported meter type.

Your step-by-step guide to RTS meter replacement

The process of replacing your RTS meter is designed to be straightforward, with your current energy supplier taking the lead.

Identifying your RTS meter

If you are unsure whether you have an RTS meter, there are a few indicators. Look for a separate box next to your electricity meter that might be labelled "Radio Teleswitch" or "Radio Telemeter". You might also have one if your home relies on electric heating, has no mains gas supply, or you are on an Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariff. If you are still uncertain, your energy supplier can confirm whether your meter is an RTS type.

Your current supplier's responsibility for replacement

Your current energy supplier is legally responsible for replacing your RTS meter. This upgrade to a smart meter is provided free of charge to you. They will contact you to arrange the replacement, and it is crucial to respond to their communications. Ofgem, the energy regulator, provides authoritative information on this process and your consumer rights.

Booking your free smart meter upgrade

When your supplier contacts you, they will offer to schedule an appointment for the smart meter installation. It is advisable to book your appointment as soon as possible to avoid any potential disruption to your energy supply.

Embracing your new smart meter: benefits and beyond

Upgrading to a smart meter is not just about replacing old technology; it is an opportunity to gain greater control and understanding of your energy usage.

How smart meters enhance your energy control

Smart meters are the next generation of electricity meters, automatically sending your readings to your energy supplier. This means you will receive accurate bills based on your actual energy consumption, eliminating estimated bills. They also come with an in-home display unit, which shows you in near real-time how much energy you are using and its cost. This visibility empowers you to monitor your energy habits and make informed decisions to manage your usage more effectively. For more details on how to read your new meter, you can refer to guides on how to read your electricity meter.

Potential savings and tariff optimisation

With a smart meter, you gain access to a wider range of tariffs, including "Time of Use" tariffs that offer cheaper electricity during off-peak periods. This can help you save money by shifting energy-intensive activities, such as charging electric vehicles or running appliances, to times when electricity is cheaper. The real-time data provided by your smart meter can help you identify opportunities to reduce energy waste and choose the most suitable tariff for your lifestyle. Understanding the energy price cap can also help you make informed decisions.

What happens if you do not upgrade

If you do not replace your RTS meter, it will eventually stop working correctly once the RTS signal is switched off. This could lead to inaccurate billing or the loss of your off-peak electricity rates. Your heating and hot water systems, if controlled by the RTS meter, might also be affected, potentially becoming stuck on or off, or charging at the wrong times. Ofgem has stated that without an appropriate meter replacement, some affected homes could be left without heating and hot water.

Moving forward: a modern energy experience

The transition away from RTS meters is a step towards a more efficient and transparent energy future.

Leveraging your smart meter for greater efficiency

Once your smart meter is installed, you will have the tools to understand and manage your energy consumption like never before. The in-home display and your energy supplier's app can provide detailed insights into your usage, helping you identify areas where you can reduce waste and save money. This enhanced control can lead to a more efficient and rewarding energy experience.

Choosing a digital-first energy provider post-upgrade

With your new smart meter in place, you will be ready to explore the benefits offered by modern energy providers. Fuse Energy positions itself as a modern energy destination for homeowners after their mandatory RTS meter upgrade. Once you have a smart meter, Fuse offers a digital-first experience to help you manage your energy and tariffs effectively. This transforms a necessary upgrade into a gateway to a more efficient and rewarding energy future, empowering you with greater control and transparency.

Ready to take control of your energy? Once your RTS meter has been replaced with a smart meter, switching to Fuse Energy is quick and easy. We offer clear pricing and a digital-first experience designed to help you understand and manage your energy usage. Find out more about our mission to make energy simpler and fairer by clicking here, or click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.