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Facts You Might Not Know About Smart Meters

Smart meters are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people look for ways to save money on their energy bills. A smart meter is an advanced form of energy meter that records electricity consumption in intervals of an hour or less and then communicates this information wirelessly to the utility for monitoring and billing. Smart meters enable two-way communication between the customer and the utility, provide near real-time data on power consumption, which can be used to make informed decisions about how to conserve energy and save money and offer many other benefits. For example, they can help customers manage their energy use, enable demand response programs, and provide data for grid operations and planning. Smart meters can also help utilities improve customer service and outage management and reduce operational costs.

Facts About Smart Meters:

No Installation Cost

Most people are only familiar with the traditional electricity meter installed in their homes. These meters measure the amount of electricity used and send that information back to the utility company. A smart meter is a more advanced type of meter that measures the amount of electricity used and provides real-time information about energy consumption. This information can be used to help manage energy usage and save money on your energy bill. One of the great facts about smart meters is that you will not need to pay to have one installed. The utility company will cover the installation cost as part of their service.

The Radiation From Smart Meters Is Safe

Smart meters emit low levels of radiofrequency (RF) radiation. While this type of radiation has the potential to cause health problems, the levels emitted by smart meters are very low and not considered dangerous. In fact, studies have shown that smart meters emit less RF radiation than many common devices, such as mobile phones and microwave ovens. So, you do not need to worry about the safety of modern meters when it comes to your health. Nevertheless, you can always speak to your utility company or a qualified health professional if you have any concerns.

Secure Communication Protocol

While there are many beneficial facts about using a smart meter, one of the most important is that your data and information will be safe. Smart meters use a secure communication protocol, ensuring your data is protected. In addition, modern meters are equipped with a tamper-resistant seal that helps to prevent unauthorized access. You can be sure that your personal information is safe when you use a smart meter because they are not only heavily monitored by the utility company but also contain anti-tamper technology, ensuring no one has access to them besides those who need service or payment details.

Automatic Meter Readings

Did you know that smart meters can actually read themselves? That’s right – you won’t need to read your smart meter every month manually. Instead, the meter will take readings automatically. So, if you’re considering upgrading to a smart meter, remember that you won’t need to worry about reading it yourself. It is not only more convenient, but it can also help you to save money on your energy bill.

Smart Meters Work Without the Internet

Though smart meters are an advanced type of meter that uses digital technology to communicate information about your energy consumption to your electricity retailer, an interesting fact about smart meters is that they do not need the internet to work. They communicate using a secure wireless network, so you don’t have to worry about them being hacked or taking up data on your phone plan.

It Can Be Installed on Your Rented Property

Many people are surprised that they can get a smart meter even living in a rented property. Though landlords indeed have the final say on whether or not to install a smart meter, many are open to the idea if their tenants request it. After all, smart meters offer several benefits for both landlords and tenants. For landlords, they can help to save money on energy bills, as well as provide valuable data on energy usage. For tenants, smart meters can provide greater control over energy usage and costs.

Moreover, many utility companies offer incentives for customers who install smart meters, making them an even more attractive option. Ultimately, whether or not you can get a smart meter in your rental property depends on your landlord’s decision. However, it is definitely worth asking if you are interested in having one installed.

You Can Change Energy Suppliers

The energy supplier who installed your smart meter won’t be the only one who can use it to supply your energy. Any other energy supplier will be able to do this as well. This is because smart meters are ‘interoperable. ‘This means they can work with any other type of meter, regardless of the supplier. So, if you switch suppliers, your new supplier can use your smart meter without problems. All they’ll need is your permission to do so.

Is It Worth Getting a Smart Meter?

Smart meters are becoming increasingly popular, but there is still some debate about whether or not they are worth the investment. There are a few key benefits of having a smart meter.

  • Smart meters can help you to save money on your energy bill. By monitoring your energy usage in real-time, you can make changes to your habits that will lead to long-term savings.
  • They can help to reduce your carbon footprint. By providing you with data about your energy consumption, you can be more conscious of your choices impact on the environment.
  • They can provide peace of mind in the event of an emergency. If there is a power outage, you can see if it affects your home.

Though with these clear advantages to having a smart meter, the decision of whether or not to get one is a personal one. If in case you are interested in installing it in your building, ask your utility bidder if they offer smart meters.