- Question
How do I read my meter?
- Answer
- Quick Answer: To read your British Gas meter, check the type—digital, imperial, dial, or smart—and record the numbers shown, ignoring any red digits or decimals. Submit readings via your online account, mobile app, or phone.
Why Meter Readings Matter
Meter readings help British Gas bill you accurately for the gas you use. If you don’t submit readings regularly (unless you have a smart meter), your bills may be based on estimates, which could mean you pay too much or too little.
Step 1: Identify Your Meter Type
British Gas customers typically have one of the following gas meters:
Digital Metric Meter
Imperial Meter
Dial Meter
Smart Meter
Each type looks different and is read in a slightly different way.
Step 2: How to Read Each Type of Meter
🔢Digital Metric Meter
Look for a row of five black numbers.
Ignore any numbers after the decimal point or shown in red.
Example: If your meter shows
00254.3, record00254.🔢Imperial Meter
Shows four black numbers.
Ignore any red digits.
Example: If your meter shows
2988, record2988.🕰️Dial Meter
Read the bottom row of four dials from left to right.
Ignore any other dials.
If a pointer is between two numbers, record the lower one.
Each dial turns in the opposite direction to the one before it.
Example: If the dials point to 6, 4, 5, and 6, your reading is
6456.📱Smart Meter
Smart meters send readings automatically, but you may need to read it manually in some cases.
Press the red button ‘A’ twice.
Look for a screen that says ‘Meter Index’.
That number is your reading.
Step 3: Record the Reading
Always write down the reading clearly and include the date. This helps British Gas track your usage and ensures your bills are accurate.
Step 4: Submit Your Reading
You can send your reading to British Gas in several ways:
Online account: Log in and submit in a few clicks.
Mobile app: Tap through to the meter reading section.
Phone: Use the automated service to submit your reading.
Form: If you don’t have an account, use the online form.
Extra Tips
Submit readings monthly if you have a traditional meter.
Don’t include red digits or decimals—they’re not used for billing.
Check both display windows if your meter has two screens.
Keep a photo of your meter for reference, especially when moving home.
What Happens If You Don’t Submit a Reading?
If you don’t send in readings, British Gas will estimate your usage. This can lead to:
Overpaying or underpaying
Unexpected bills later
Difficulty spotting leaks or faults
Regular readings help British Gas manage supply and increase use of renewables.
Want to Avoid Manual Readings?
British Gas offers free smart meter installation. With a smart meter, you’ll:
Never need to submit readings manually
See your usage in real time
Get more accurate bills
You can request one through your online account or by contacting British Gas.
Summary
Reading your gas meter is easy once you know your meter type. For British Gas customers:
Digital and imperial meters: Read the black numbers only.
Dial meters: Read the bottom row, noting the lower number if the pointer is between digits.
Smart meters: Usually automatic, but press button ‘A’ twice to see your reading if needed.
Submit your reading online, via app, or by phone to keep your bills accurate and avoid surprises.
Sources
British Gas: How to read your meter
British Gas: Pay as you go meter reading
British Gas: Submit a meter reading - View Answer at https://www.britishgas.co.uk/HelpAndAdvice/LookUp/?SXI=13,CASE=1660
- This article was generated for general information only and does not constitute legal or any other form of advice.
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