Understanding your smart meter can help you make better decisions about your energy usage and bills. This guide explains how SMETS1 smart meters work, what happens when you switch suppliers, and how they affect your tariff options.
Take the stress out of meter readings and billing for good. With Fuse Energy, you can choose between typing in your meter reading or taking a photo of it in our app if you don't have a connected smart meter and we'll handle the rest. Get clear bills, real-time half-hourly usage data, 24/7 human customer support, and a modern energy experience designed around you. Switch to Fuse Energy today in as little as 3 minutes, save annually on your bills, and see how simple energy can be.
A quick checklist for checking your SMETS1 meter
- Confirm if your meter sends automatic readings.
- Understand what happens when switching suppliers.
A SMETS1 smart meter is a first-generation smart meter that automatically sends your electricity and gas readings to your supplier. This helps ensure accurate billing without manual readings.
SMETS1 meters were often linked to a specific supplier. When you switch, they can lose functionality and lose connectivity meaning you must submit readings manually. SMETS2 meters connect via a national network (DCC), so they continue working after you switch1.
If your SMETS1 meter loses connection after switching, it stops sending readings automatically. This happens because it was originally tied to your previous supplier's system. To fix this, many SMETS1 meters are being upgraded through a process called DCC migration. Once upgraded, they behave like SMETS2 meters.
Fuse Energy supports SMETS1 meters whether they are online or offline.
- If your meter is connected, readings are collected automatically.
- If not, you can submit readings manually until it is upgraded.
Your meter type affects which tariffs you can access. EV tariffs require a connected smart meter because they rely on time-based pricing. If your SMETS1 meter is not fully connected, you will need to upgrade your meter or get your meter connected before accessing these tariffs. You can switch to Fuse Energy first and then request a free smart meter upgrade where eligible.
Managing your energy shouldn't feel like a chore. With Fuse Energy, you get real-time, half-hourly usage data in the app and website if you have a connected smart meter, so you can see exactly how much you're using and stay in control of your usage. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times of under 5 minutes whenever you need help. Switch to Fuse Energy in as little as 3 minutes and find out about our mission.
Will I be charged for a new SMETS2 meter?
No. The SMETS1 upgrade, if required, will be carried out by us completely free of charge.
How can I switch to Fuse Energy?
Switching to Fuse Energy and accessing EV tariffs is simple and can be done in as little as 3 minutes by completing the online onboarding process here.
1. Data Communications Company. Does a smart meter need Wi-Fi?
Disclaimer
For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. The author and/or Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising out of any reliance on the information contained herein.
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